Amazon Prime Video is one of the biggest and best streaming services, packed full of original and third-party TV shows and movies. However, what happens when you encounter an issue? It can be annoying to sit down ready to watch something, only to get an Amazon Prime Video error.

That's why we've put together this list of the most annoying Amazon Prime Video issues and how to fix them.

1. Prime Video Error 7235 on Chromebook

If you watch Amazon Prime Video on your Chromebook, you may receive error 7235 which says that Chrome doesn't have the WidevineCdm component.

If this happens to you, first update Chrome. You can do this by going to Settings > About Chrome. Chrome will automatically check for and install any updates.

Once done, input chrome://components in the address bar. Find the Widevine Content Decryption Module and click Check for update.

Finally, restart the browser. The problem should be resolved.

2. Prime Video Error 2063 When Buying or Renting

Amazon Prime Video has plenty of shows and movies to choose from that are included in the subscription, but you can also buy or rent other titles.

If you get error 2063 when attempting this, you should verify that all your payment information is accurate and up-to-date. You can do this via Your account > Your payments.

The problem might be a temporary issue with your usual payment method. If possible, use a different one.

3. Prime Video Error 5005 During Sign In or Sign Out

Can't even get into your account? If so, you might see Prime Video Error 5005 or similar.

amazon forgot password

As a first step, reset your password. To do this, select Forgot your password? and follow the prompts.

If this doesn't fix the problem, do a hard restart of your device (be it your computer, smart TV, or so on).

Also, go to Your account > Content and devices > Devices. Find the device you're using, Deregister it, then set it up again. This is also useful if you're unable to sign out.

Alternatively, if you can happily browse other services and your internet connection is fine, the issue might be on Amazon's side. Wait a brief period and try again.

4. Unknown Amazon Prime Video Payments

If there's a charge on your Amazon Prime Video account that you don't recognize, it might be a renewal of some kind; perhaps your Prime account itself or a channel. You can check these via the Prime Membership page and Your Orders page, both accessible via Your Account.

Alternatively, it might be that someone with access to your account approved the purchase. Double-check with those people. If you have kids, perhaps they've made an accidental purchase. If so, consider setting up an Amazon kids profile.

Still unsure what the charge is? Contact Amazon directly, quoting the date of charge and the amount.

5. Can't See a Live Event on Mobile

Amazon Prime Video sometimes broadcasts live streams, like concerts and sporting events. If you're tuning in on your mobile or tablet, you might not be able to find the live event.

If this happens to you, simply update the Prime Video app to the latest version. You can do this via the Google Play or App Store. Just search for Prime Video and tap Update.

6. Prime Video Error 5014 or 5016 When Entering Your PIN

If you use a PIN to protect your account, you might see Prime Video error 5014 or 5016 when trying to unlock something.

If this happens, the best tip is simply to wait a few minutes. The problem usually resolves itself.

If it doesn't, go to your Prime Video settings and set a new PIN. This can clear the problem.

7. Unable to Stream Something on Amazon Prime Video

There are plenty of things that could cause something to not stream on Amazon Prime Video, which can vary depending on what device you're using.

Here are some solutions, which you should try in turn:

  • Completely close the Amazon Prime app and restart your device.
  • Check for any updates for both your device and the app and install them.
  • Disable any VPNs or antivirus software.
  • Cease all internet activity on your network (e.g., downloading something in the background or someone in the house streaming on another device).
  • You can only stream the same thing on two devices simultaneously, so check that no-one else with access to your account is trying to stream what you are.
  • Reset your router to ensure it isn't an internet connectivity problem.

8. Constant Buffering and Lag

Buffering and lag is one of the most common streaming problems, let alone for Amazon Prime Video. It can be so annoying for your viewing to be constantly interrupted by that spinning circle of doom.

amazon buffering

You should run a network speed test to find out your download speeds. On Prime Video, you need at least 1MB/s for SD content, 5MB/s for HD content, and 15MB/s for 4K content. Ideally, your speeds should comfortably exceed this to account for any drops.

The other usual steps also apply here: restart everything (including your internet), update everything, and try again.

Finally, are you sure it's lag from the stream? Your TV might have motion smoothing applied, which helps eliminate ghosting and blurring. Unfortunately, it can also make your stream look like it's lagging, especially if it was filmed at 24fps. Look in your TV's settings for options like blur and judder reduction and disable these.

Get Amazon Prime Video Working Again

Hopefully you've found your issue listed here and have resolved the issue. If not, your best bet is to contact Amazon support and let their advisors guide you through some troubleshooting steps.

There are so many factors at play with streaming—the provider, your device, your network—that things are bound to go wrong occasionally. And new issues can crop up as Amazon release updates. However, the company is usually good at swiftly identifying and patching these.