How to Fix Stuck Pixels on an LCD Screen

Determine if it's a dead or stuck pixel. Stuck pixels always display a color. Dead pixels, on the other hand, appear white (on TN panels) or black. Try to figure out whether it’s a dead pixel or just temporarily stuck.

Send the screen back to the manufacturer (optional). If it’s a dead pixel, you should pay the warranty fee and return the screen to the manufacturer.

• If the warranty has expired, you can try the following methods. However, be very cautious as these are only temporary fixes for stuck pixels.

Turn on your computer and LCD screen.

Open a black image to make the stuck pixel stand out against the contrasting background. You need to use a black image, not a blank signal, because the LCD backlight must illuminate the back of the panel.

Find a tool with a narrow, blunt tip. You can use a capped marker, a dull pencil, a plastic pen, or the tip of a makeup brush.

• Before proceeding, read the warning at the end of the article. Rubbing the screen could make things worse.

Use the rounded end of the tool to gently press on the stuck pixel. Don’t press too hard—just enough to see a white dot flash at the contact point. If you don’t see the white dot, you’re not pressing hard enough. Apply a bit more pressure.

Press harder. Increase the pressure and press repeatedly 5-10 times until the pixel returns to normal.

Apply pressure. If pressing the pixel doesn’t work, take a damp cloth (not too wet) or a wet wipe, fold it neatly to avoid accidental tearing. Place it over the stuck pixel and press gently, then use the tool again to press on the stuck pixel.

• Focus the pressure precisely on the stuck pixel, avoiding the surrounding area.

Check the results. Open a white image (e.g., a blank document or type about:blank in your web browser and press F11 for full-screen mode) to confirm if you’ve accidentally damaged the screen instead of fixing the stuck pixel. If the stuck pixel is fixed, the entire screen should appear white.

Turn on your computer and LCD screen.

Soak a cloth in water as hot as possible. If you can, heat the water until bubbles form at the bottom of the pot. Place the cloth in a strainer and pour the hot water over it.

Wear gloves or heat-resistant mitts. You don’t want to burn your hands in the next step.

Place the hot cloth in a sandwich bag. Make sure to seal the bag tightly.

Put the plastic bag with the hot cloth over the stuck pixel. Place the bag on the screen but avoid the seams, as hot water leaking out could damage your computer. Focus the heat on the stuck pixel.

Gently "massage" the pixels in a circular motion. Move your finger around the pixel in a massaging motion. The warmth helps the liquid crystals flow into the unfilled areas more easily.

Try using pixel-fixing software (See Sources and Citations). You can reactivate stuck pixels by rapidly turning them on and off. Numerous screen repair programs are available for free download online.

Try using PixelTuneup (see Sources and Citations). These devices generate customized video signals designed to eliminate stuck pixels and enhance image quality, color, and contrast. This method can be applied to LCD, LED, plasma, or CRT TVs.

• If the above methods don't work, consider contacting the manufacturer for a replacement screen. If technical component replacement is necessary, reach out to the manufacturer for detailed discussions.

• Many believe touching the screen can cause more stuck pixels, but this hasn't been proven.
• Avoid opening the screen yourself, as it voids the warranty and disqualifies you from manufacturer screen replacements.
• Be cautious when downloading screen repair software online, as many sites may contain viruses worse than stuck pixels.
• Never wet electronic devices to prevent damage.
• LCD screens consist of multiple layers separated by small glass spacers. These spacers and layers are delicate. Pressing on the LCD panel with fingers or a cloth can break the spacers, worsening the issue. Most technicians avoid force-based methods for fixing stuck pixels, so proceed at your own risk.
• Manufacturer warranties for LCDs often cover panel replacement if a certain number of abnormal pixels are present. However, damage from rubbing or strong contact isn't covered. Contact the manufacturer to explore repair or replacement options.