How to reboot Xiaomi Mi TV MAG138: from basic reset to disaster recovery

Xiaomi Mi TV MAG138 is a popular model with Android TV, but even it sometimes hangs or works unstable. Reboot helps solve 90% of software problems, from interface brakes to video playback errors. However, not everyone knows how to make a reset correctly, especially if the screen does not respond to the remote.

In this article, we’ll look at all the possible ways to reboot, from a standard soft reset to a forced reset via a service menu, how to avoid data loss, what to do with a black screen, and why some methods can harm a TV. The instructions are relevant for the PatchWall-based MAG138 and Google TV (depending on the firmware version).

1. Soft reboot: the safest way

If the TV is responsive to the remote but is slow or makes errors, start with a soft reset, which does not delete user data (applications, Wi-Fi settings, accounts) and is similar to a smartphone reboot.

How to do this:

  • πŸ“Ί On the Xiaomi remote, press the Power button (on/off) for 5-7 seconds.
  • πŸ”„ The screen will appear menu with options: select Reboot (or Restart in English firmware).
  • ⏳ Wait for automatic switching off and on (takes up to 2 minutes).

If the Power button doesn’t work, try an alternative path through the menu:

  1. Open Settings β†’ Device β†’ Reboot.
  2. Confirm the action (may be required) PIN-code, if parental control is established).

πŸ’‘

If problems persist after a soft reboot, check the spare space in the TV's memory. A filled storage (over 90%) often causes lags. Remove unnecessary apps in Settings β†’ Apps

Forced reset when getting stuck

When the TV doesn't respond to the remote and buttons completely, a hard reset is required, which simulates battery extraction (like in older phones) and resets temporary data in RAM.

Instructions:

  1. Find a physical Reset button (usually next to HDMI ports) on the rear of the MAG138, which is recessed in the case and requires a thin object (clip, toothpick).
  2. Press and hold the button for 10-15 seconds until the power indicator goes out.
  3. Release the button and wait for automatic activation (up to 3 minutes).
What to do if the Reset button doesn’t work?
If the TV doesn't respond to the Reset button, disconnect it for 10 minutes, then turn it on again. This will reset the power capacitors. If the problem recurs, maybe the power supply is faulty, you need a diagnosis at the service center.

⚠️ Warning: Don't confuse the Reset button with the Pair button (for remote sync)! tapping on Pair won't reboot the TV, but will reset the pairing of all remotes.

3. Reboot through the service menu (for experienced)

If standard methods don't work, you can use the service menu, which is suitable for diagnosing hardware problems or factory resets, and be careful: wrong actions can lead to data loss or a TV lock!

How to open the service menu:

  • πŸ”§ Turn off the TV with the remote control.
  • πŸ–±οΈ On the remote at the same time press the buttons: Menu + Volume Down Hold for 5-7 seconds until the menu appears.
  • πŸ“Š From the menu, select Reboot System (reboot) or Factory Reset (full reset).

The service menu can also include:

  • πŸ” Check the firmware version (Software Version).
  • πŸ”‹ Check the status of the remote control (Remote Control Info).
  • πŸ“‘ Testing Wi-Fi Signal (Network Test).
πŸ“Š How often do you reboot your Xiaomi TV?
Once a week.
Only when it fails.
Never.
I don't know how to do that.
Type of rebootWhen to useLoss of dataImplementation time
Soft (via menu)Slow operation, application errorsNo.1-2 minutes
Hard (Reset button)Full freeze, black screen.Temporary data (cache)2-3 minutes
Service menuDiagnosis, reset to factory settingsYeah (at Factory Reset)5-10 minutes
Shutdown from the networkCritical disruption, overheatingPossible file damage10+ minute

4.Reboot after firmware update

Software updates on Xiaomi Mi TV MAG138 are sometimes incorrect: the TV can hang on the logo or reboot cyclically, in which case a forced reset with recovery will help.

Steps to recover:

Turn off the TV for 5 minutes | Press the Reset button for 15 seconds | Connect to the Internet and repeat the update | If it doesn't help, reset to factory settings-->

If the TV is fixated on downloading (constantly showing the Xiaomi logo), try:

  1. Turn off the power for 10 minutes.
  2. Turn on the TV and immediately press on the remote: Home (home) + Volume Up (volume up) Hold until the recovery menu appears.
  3. Select Wipe Cache Partition, then Reboot System.

⚠️ Note: If the TV gives a β€œNo Command” error after the update, don’t try to hand-stitch it without experience. Contact the service center – the wrong firmware can make the device a β€œbrickΒ».

5 What to do if the TV does not turn on after restarting

If the MAG138 does not show signs of life after the reset (no indicator, does not respond to the remote), check the following:

Causes and solutions:

  • πŸ”Œ Power: Make sure the cable is connected to a serviceable socket. Try another cord (the original Xiaomi power supply gives you a good idea). 12V/1.5A).
  • πŸ”‹ Capacitors: If the TV doesn't turn on after a long downtime, the capacitors could run out. Hold the power button pressed for 30 seconds, then turn on.
  • πŸ“‘ Remote: Check the batteries or connect the TV to the HDMI-CEC (through another device, such as a prefix).
  • πŸ”§ Hardware failure: If the indicator flashes red, it is an error code. take a picture of the blinking and contact the service (for example, 5 short ones). + 1 long = lighting-up).

If the TV is turned on but the screen is black:

  1. Illuminate the screen with a flashlight - if the image is barely visible, the illumination is faulty.
  2. Check the input signal: switch to another source (HDMI1, TV).
  3. Reset the image settings: Settings β†’ Display β†’ Reset to factory.

πŸ’‘

If the TV doesn't respond to any of the reboot methods, the problem is more hardware (power supply, motherboard) self-repair without experience can aggravate the breakdown!

6.How to avoid frequent reboots: preventing failures

Regular freezes Xiaomi Mi TV MAG138 is often associated with system overload or outdated software. Follow these tips to reduce the number of crashes:

Optimization of work:

  • 🧹 Cache Clearing: Once a month, clean the app cache in Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ [Select an application] β†’ Warehouse β†’ Clear the cache.
  • πŸ”„ Auto Updates: Enable automatic software updates: Settings β†’ The device β†’ Updating the system β†’ Auto-update.
  • 🚫 Background Processes: Limit Auto-Run Unnecessary Applications in Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ Special access β†’ Auto-start.
  • 🌑️ Overheating: Make sure the vents on the back are not closed.The optimum operating temperature is 10-35Β°C.

What not to do:

  • ❌ Install APK-Files from unverified sources (virus risk).
  • ❌ Use the TV as a monitor for PC in mode 4K@60Hz longer 6 hours in a row (matrix overheating).
  • ❌ Turn off power during firmware update.

If problems arise after connecting external devices (confixes, sound panel), try:

  1. Disconnect all devices from HDMI and USB ports.
  2. Perform a soft reboot.
  3. Connect the devices one at a time, checking the stability of the work.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the Xiaomi Mi reboot TV MAG138

Can I reboot the TV without a remote?
Yes, there are three ways: Use the Reset button on the back (you need a paper clip); connect the keyboard or mouse via USB/Bluetooth and call the reboot menu; manage via the Mi Remote app on your smartphone (you need a connection to one Wi-Fi network); if the TV is connected to Google Home, you can send a command by voice: "OK Google, reboot Mi TV."
Why do the sound settings get lost after the reboot?
This is a well-known problem with Xiaomi’s PatchWall firmware, and it’s caused by resetting your audio profile. To avoid this: Before rebooting, write down your current settings (e.g., take a picture of the screen). After the reset, return the settings to Settings β†’ Sound β†’ Equalizer. Update the firmware to the latest version (new versions fix the bug).
The TV is constantly rebooting itself. What's the matter?
Causes of cyclic reboot: Overheating β€” check the vents; a faulty power supply β€” if the indicator flashes orange; damaged firmware β€” requires flashing over USB; Application conflict β€” remove newly installed programs; If the problem persists, reset the TV to factory settings (Settings β†’ Device β†’ Reset).
Can I roll back the firmware to MAG138 after a failed update?
Officially, Xiaomi does not support the rollback of firmware, but there is a workaround: Download the desired version of the software from the forum XDA Developers (e.g., developers, MAG138_V2.0.123.stock.zip). Unpack the archives on USB-storage device FAT32). Connect the flash drive to the TV and pinch on the Menu remote + Volume Down to enter Restore Mode. Select Apply update from USB and specify the firmware file. ⚠️ Warning: Flawed firmware can knock out TV, rollback voids warranty!
How to reset the Parental Control password after rebooting?
If you forgot. PIN-code: Reset to factory settings via the service menu (see section 3). or use Xiaomi's standard code: 0000 or 1234. If it doesn't work, contact Xiaomi with a purchase check to confirm ownership.