Why is my Chevy Mylink screen not working?
A Chevy MyLink screen that won’t work is usually caused by a software glitch, a power or fuse issue, or a hardware fault. Many problems can be resolved with a simple reset or software update.
The MyLink infotainment system powers the touchscreen, Bluetooth, navigation, and car apps in Chevrolet models. When the screen fails, you might see a blank display, a frozen image, or touch controls that don’t respond. This article covers the most common causes and practical steps to diagnose and fix the issue, plus guidance on when to seek professional help.
Common causes
Before you start testing, it helps to know what might be behind a non-working MyLink screen. The following list covers the most typical culprits, from simple power problems to hardware faults.
- Software glitch or freeze: The system can hang or crash after updates or during heavy use; a restart often clears the issue.
- Touchscreen or digitizer failure: The display may power on but not respond to touch, or the image may be distorted.
- Power supply or fuses: A blown infotainment fuse, ignition fuse, or a weak 12V supply can prevent the unit from powering up.
- Loose or damaged wiring or connectors: A loose harness behind the screen can cause intermittent or no display.
- Incompatible media or apps: A corrupted USB drive or SD card or an app crash can affect the screen’s performance.
- Overheating or environmental factors: High heat can cause the unit to reset or shut down.
- Software update missing or failed: Outdated firmware can lead to instability or blank screens; updates may be OTA or require a USB file via dealership.
- Hardware failure of the infotainment unit: In some cases the head unit itself is failing and requires replacement.
Understanding these causes helps you decide whether a quick home fix is possible or if professional service is needed. If the screen remains blank after checking common issues, schedule a diagnostic with your Chevrolet dealer.
Troubleshooting steps
Below are practical steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix a non-working MyLink screen. Start with the least invasive options and proceed to deeper checks if nothing helps.
- Perform a soft reset: Press and hold the Volume knob / Power button for about 10-15 seconds until the system reboots.
- Check power and fuses: Inspect the infotainment fuse and related power fuses in the passenger-side fuse box and under the hood. If you find a blown fuse, replace it with one of the same rating.
- Check for a firmware/software update: In MyLink, go to Settings > System Update (or equivalent) and follow prompts. If your vehicle supports OTA updates, connect to Wi‑Fi or your phone’s hotspot as needed; otherwise, check with your dealer for a USB update file.
- Test for a software reset (factory reset as a last resort): If the screen responds, you can perform a factory data reset in Settings > System > Factory Data Reset. Note this will erase saved settings, contacts, and paired devices.
- Eliminate external causes: Remove any USB drives or SD cards, then reboot. Disconnect and re-connect the phone via Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto if applicable.
- Inspect for hardware symptoms: If the screen remains dead or unresponsive after resets and updates, or you notice lines, flickering, or water ingress, it is likely a hardware issue requiring service or a head-unit replacement.
These steps cover the most common scenarios. If the issue persists after completing them, the problem is more likely hardware-related or tied to a failed update, and you should contact a certified Chevrolet technician or your dealer for a diagnostic.
When to seek professional help
If you cannot resolve the issue with resets, fuses, or software updates, or you observe signs of water damage, a failing display, or other dashboard electrical problems, seek professional service. An experienced technician can run diagnostic codes, test the head unit, verify wiring, and determine whether a repair or replacement is needed, often under warranty if applicable.
Model-year and trim differences
Infotainment hardware and software vary by model year and trim level. Newer Chevrolet models may include updated MyLink versions, different screen sizes, or different update mechanisms. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a dealer for model-specific guidance and approved update procedures.
Summary
In most cases a non-working MyLink screen is fixable at home with a soft reset, checking fuses and power, or applying a software update. If those steps fail, a factory reset or professional diagnosis is the next step, as persistent blank screens or unresponsiveness often point to hardware faults that require service or head-unit replacement. Keeping your system updated and avoiding conflicting media or apps can help prevent future issues.
