Chromecast 2nd Gen Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It!

Chromecast 2nd Generation is a great device that lets users stream media effortlessly via their tablets, phones or laptops to their televisions. But, as with any other tech device, it could encounter issues. A lot of users face issues like problems with Chromecast failing to connect, not appearing when they turn on their TVs, or buffering often. If you’re struggling with any of these problems, do not worry! This guide will guide you through troubleshooting steps that will fix you back on track with your Chromecast 2nd Gen not working issue.

2. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into complex fixes, try these simple troubleshooting steps:

Restart Chromecast

• Unplug the Chromecast from the power source.
• Wait 30 seconds and plug it back in.
• Check if the issue persists.

Check Power Source and Cables

• Ensure your Chromecast is connected to a working power outlet.
• Avoid using your TV’s USB port as a power source, as it might not supply enough power.
• Try a different micro-USB cable or power adapter.

Ensure HDMI Connection is Secure

• Make sure that the Chromecast is securely attached to an HDMI port.
• If your television has more than one HDMI port, you can try switching to a different port.
• Make use of the HDMI extender that comes with Chromecast to increase the quality of your connection.

If these steps don’t resolve your issue, move on to network-related fixes.

3. WiFi and Network-Related Fixes

Check Your WiFi Connection

A weak or unstable WiFi connection can cause Chromecast to disconnect frequently.

• Make sure your WiFi is working by testing it on another device.
• If other devices struggle to connect, restart your router.

Restart Router and Modem

• Unplug your router and modem for at least 60 seconds.
• Plug them back in and wait for them to fully restart.

Use a 2.4GHz Network Instead of 5GHz

Chromecast 2nd Gen works best with a 2.4GHz WiFi band.

• Check your router settings and ensure the 2.4GHz band is enabled.
• If your router automatically selects the best frequency, try manually selecting 2.4GHz.

4. Google Home App Issues

If Chromecast doesn’t show up in the Google Home app, try these steps:

Ensure the App is Updated

• Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Search for “Google Home” and check if there’s an update available.

Reconnect Chromecast to Google Home

• Open the Google Home app.
• Tap on your Chromecast device and select Remove Device.
• Re-add Chromecast by following the setup instructions.

Clear Cache and Data

• On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Google Home > Storage > Clear Cache & Clear Data.
• Restart the app and try connecting again.

5. Chromecast Not Showing on TV

If your Chromecast isn’t appearing on your TV, here’s what to do:

Check TV Input Source

• Use your TV remote to select the correct HDMI input.
• If unsure, try cycling through all available inputs.

Try a Different HDMI Port

• Some HDMI ports may not support Chromecast properly.
• Try connecting your Chromecast to another port.

Use an HDMI Extender

The HDMI extender can improve signal reception, especially if the Chromecast is too close to the TV’s body.

If your Chromecast still doesn’t appear, move on to more advanced fixes.

6. Fixing Chromecast Freezing or Buffering Issues

Reduce Network Congestion

If multiple devices are using the internet at the same time, Chromecast may struggle to stream smoothly.

• Disconnect unnecessary devices from WiFi.
• Pause downloads and large file transfers.

Improve WiFi Signal Strength

• Place your router in an open area for better coverage.
• Use a WiFi range extender if your Chromecast is far from the router.

Use an Ethernet Adapter

For a stable connection, use a Chromecast Ethernet adapter instead of WiFi.

7. Factory Reset Chromecast

If none of the above solutions work, resetting Chromecast might be necessary.

Reset via Google Home App

• Open Google Home.
• Select your Chromecast.
• Tap Settings > Factory Reset.

Reset Using the Physical Button

• Press and hold the small button on Chromecast for 25 seconds until the LED blinks.
• Release it, and Chromecast will reset to factory settings.

8. Firmware and Software Updates

Keeping your Chromecast and Google Home app updated is crucial to avoiding issues.

Check for Chromecast Updates

Chromecast updates automatically, but you can manually check for updates:

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. Tap on your Chromecast device.
3. Go to Device Settings > System > About > Firmware Version.
4. Compare the version with the latest firmware available on Google’s support page.

If an update is pending, restart your Chromecast to trigger the update process.

Update the Google Home App

• Go to Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
• Search for Google Home and update it if a newer version is available.

An outdated app may cause compatibility issues that prevent Chromecast from working correctly.

9. Mobile Device Compatibility Issues

Your smartphone or tablet plays a key role in Chromecast functionality. If your device has issues, Chromecast may not work properly.

Ensure Your Device is on the Same WiFi Network

• Both Chromecast and your mobile device must be connected to the same network.
• If you have multiple WiFi bands (2.4GHz & 5GHz), check that both devices are on the same one.

Update Your Mobile Operating System

Older software versions may not be compatible with Chromecast.

• On Android: Settings > System > Software Update.
• On iOS: Settings > General > Software Update.

Check App Permissions for Google Home

Google Home requires certain permissions to function properly:

• On Android: Settings > Apps > Google Home > Permissions.
• Ensure permissions like Location, WiFi, and Storage are enabled.

If your mobile device is outdated or incompatible, consider using a different device to set up Chromecast.

10. Fixing Chromecast Audio Issues

Sometimes Chromecast plays video fine, but there’s no sound. Here’s how to fix it:

Adjust TV and App Volume

• Check if your TV volume is muted or too low.
• Increase the volume on your streaming app.
• If using external speakers, ensure they are properly connected and turned on.

Ensure Correct Audio Output Settings

Some TVs require specific audio settings to work with Chromecast:

• Go to TV Settings > Sound > Digital Output Format.
• Change the format to PCM (Pulse Code Modulation).

Restart the Audio Source Device

• Close and reopen the streaming app (e.g., YouTube, Netflix).
• Restart your phone, tablet, or PC.
• Try casting from a different device to see if the problem persists.

11. Overheating Problems

Overheating can cause performance issues, frequent disconnections, or even automatic shutdowns.

Preventing Chromecast from Overheating

• Avoid placing Chromecast behind the TV, as it traps heat.
• Keep Chromecast in a well-ventilated area.
• If Chromecast feels hot, unplug it for a few minutes to let it cool down.

Proper Placement for Heat Dissipation

• Use an HDMI extender to move Chromecast away from the TV.
• Ensure proper air circulation by not covering the device with objects.

If overheating persists, consider using an external fan or cooling pad near the Chromecast.

12. Chromecast Remote and Voice Control Fixes

If your Chromecast’s voice control or remote isn’t responding, try these solutions.

Ensure Google Assistant is Working

• Say “Hey Google, play [show/movie] on Chromecast” to test voice commands.
• If there’s no response, open Google Assistant settings and ensure Chromecast is connected.

Re-sync the Voice Control Feature

• Open Google Home app.
• Tap on your Chromecast device > Settings.
• Select Voice & Assistant > Re-sync device.

If using a physical remote (e.g., Chromecast with Google TV), replace the batteries and reconnect the remote via Bluetooth.

13. Third-Party App Streaming Problems

Some apps may not function properly with Chromecast. Here’s how to troubleshoot streaming issues.

Check App Compatibility

Not all apps support Chromecast. To check:

• Open the app and look for the Cast icon (TV with WiFi signal).
• If missing, the app may not support Chromecast natively.

Clear Cache and Reinstall Streaming Apps

App cache buildup can cause playback errors:

• On Android: Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage > Clear Cache.
• On iOS, delete and reinstall the app.

Update Streaming Apps

Older app versions may cause buffering or playback issues:

• Go to Google Play Store or App Store.
• Search for your streaming app (Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, etc.) and update it.

If the issue persists, try using a different streaming service to see if Chromecast is working correctly.

14. When to Contact Google Support

If none of these fixes work, you may need to contact Google Support.

Signs of Hardware Failure

• Chromecast won’t power on despite using different cables and outlets.
• It overheats excessively even in well-ventilated areas.
• The device doesn’t respond to factory reset attempts.

How to Reach Google Support

• Visit the official Google Chromecast Help Center.
• Contact Google via live chat or phone support.
• If your device is under warranty, request a replacement.

15. Conclusion and Final Tips

Troubleshooting a Chromecast 2nd Gen not working can be frustrating, but in most cases, the issue is easily fixable.

Quick Recap of Solutions:

1. Restart Chromecast and check power cables.
2. Ensure Chromecast and your mobile device are on the same WiFi network.
3. Use Google Home app to reconfigure the device.
4. Update Chromecast firmware and the Google Home app.
5. Reset Chromecast as a last resort.

By following these steps, your Chromecast 2nd Gen should be up and running again in no time!

FAQs

1. Why is my Chromecast 2nd Gen not connecting to WiFi?

It could be due to the network being clogged, incorrect WiFi setting, or even interference. Restart your router by using a 2.4GHz internet connection or reconnecting Chromecast.

2. How do I reset my Chromecast 2nd Gen?

Press and hold the reset button on the Chromecast for 25 seconds until the LED flashes, then release it. Alternatively, reset it through the Google Home app under Device Settings.

3. Why is Chromecast not showing up on my TV?

Ensure your TV is set to the correct HDMI input, try a different HDMI port, and use the provided HDMI extender for better signal reception.

4. Can I use Chromecast without the Google Home app?

For initial setup, you will need Google Home, you can cast directly from the Chrome browser on a computer without the application. However, some features, such as updating and setting up, require Google Home.

5. Is Chromecast 2nd Gen still supported in 2025?

Yes, but Google prioritizes newer models. Some software updates may be limited over time, but the device should still function for basic streaming.