E-reader troubleshooting: common problems and fixes

Every e-reader owner runs into problems sometimes. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.

Screen Issues

Ghosting (Faint Previous Page)

Fix: Enable full page refresh in settings.

  • Kindle: Settings → Reading Options → Page Refresh
  • Kobo: Settings → Reading Settings → Refresh Screen
  • BOOX: E-Ink Center → Refresh Mode → Regal

Frozen Screen

Fix: Force restart.

  1. Hold the power button for 20 seconds
  2. Release and wait 10 seconds
  3. Press power button to turn on

Dead Pixels

Fix: Usually a hardware issue.

  • Contact manufacturer support (within warranty)
  • Dead pixels are rare on e-ink displays

Battery Issues

Battery Draining Fast

Common causes:

  • WiFi left on — biggest battery drain, turn off when not syncing
  • Front light at max — reduce brightness
  • Indexing new books — leave device on and connected to WiFi overnight

Won’t Charge

  1. Try a different USB cable
  2. Try a different power adapter
  3. Clean the charging port with a dry toothpick
  4. Restart the device while plugged in

Software Issues

Kindle Won’t Turn On

  1. Connect to charger for 30 minutes
  2. Hold power button for 40 seconds
  3. If still off, try a different charger
  4. Contact Amazon support

Kobo Stuck on Startup

  1. Hold power button for 20 seconds
  2. If that fails, factory reset: Hold power + home button (if applicable) for 30 seconds
  3. Connect to computer and check if it appears as a drive

BOOX App Crashing

  1. Clear app cache: Settings → Apps → Clear Cache
  2. Update the app
  3. Reinstall if problem persists

Sync Issues

Books Not Syncing

  1. Check WiFi is on
  2. Verify you’re signed into your account
  3. Tap Sync in settings
  4. Wait 2-3 minutes after adding new books

Highlights Not Appearing

  1. Sync the device
  2. Check you’re on the same account
  3. Some older Kindle models have sync limits

Still Not Working?

IssueNext Step
Hardware damageContact manufacturer
Software bugCheck for firmware update
Account issueCheck account status online
Out of warrantyTry community forums (MobileRead)