If Kodi is crashing, missing updates, or refusing to open, reinstalling it can often fix the problem. This guide explains how to reinstall Kodi on a Fire Stick, including how to remove the old app, download the official installer, and restore your setup safely.
Before You Reinstall Kodi on a Fire Stick
Reinstalling Kodi removes the Kodi app and may delete its local settings, add-ons, and saved configuration. Before you begin, decide whether you need to preserve your setup.
If Kodi still opens, back up your build or add-ons first. You can use a reputable backup add-on, or manually note the add-ons and settings you want to restore later. Some third-party builds include backup tools, but avoid unfamiliar apps that request unnecessary permissions.
You will also need:
- A working Fire Stick connected to the internet
- Your Amazon remote
- Enough free storage space
- The Downloader app, if Kodi is not available in your Amazon Appstore
- Your Kodi account details, if you use any supported services that require sign-in
Only install Kodi from its official website or a trusted app store. Kodi itself is legitimate media-center software, but some unofficial add-ons may provide copyrighted content without permission.
Uninstall the Existing Kodi App
Removing the current installation gives you a clean starting point.
- From the Fire Stick home screen, open Settings.
- Select Applications.
- Choose Manage Installed Applications.
- Scroll through the list and select Kodi.
- Choose Uninstall.
- Confirm by selecting Uninstall again.
Wait until Fire Stick finishes removing the app. If you do not see Kodi in the list, it may already have been removed. You can continue with the installation steps.
If storage is low, use the same Manage Installed Applications menu to remove apps you no longer use. Fire Stick devices have limited internal storage, and insufficient space can cause downloads or installations to fail.
Enable Installation from the Downloader App
The safest sideloading method is to use Downloader and obtain the installation file from Kodi’s official website.
First, install Downloader:
- Return to the Fire Stick home screen.
- Select the search icon and type Downloader.
- Choose the Downloader app developed by AFTVnews.
- Select Get or Download.
- Open Downloader after the installation completes.
On newer Fire OS versions, you must give Downloader permission to install apps:
- Open Settings.
- Select My Fire TV.
- Choose Developer Options.
- Select Install unknown apps.
- Turn Downloader on.
If you do not see Developer Options, open Settings > My Fire TV > About, highlight your Fire Stick device, and press the select button seven times. A message should confirm that developer options are enabled. Return to the previous menu and open Developer Options.
Download and Install Kodi
Now you can complete the main process for how to reinstall Kodi on a Fire Stick.
- Open Downloader.
- Approve any permission requests the first time it runs.
- Enter the official Kodi website address:
https://kodi.tv/download - Select the Android logo.
- Choose the appropriate Android version for your Fire Stick. In most cases, the recommended ARMV7A or ARMV8A option will work, depending on your device.
- Select the available release and wait for the APK file to download.
- When the installation screen appears, choose Install.
- Select Done after installation finishes.
- Choose Delete to remove the APK file and free storage, then confirm the deletion.
- Open Kodi from the Apps menu.
If Kodi is listed in the Amazon Appstore on your device, you can install it directly through the store instead. Availability can vary by location and may change over time, so use the official Kodi download page when the app is not listed.
Complete Kodi Setup After Reinstalling
The first launch may take longer than usual while Kodi creates its folders and settings. Allow it time to finish before pressing buttons repeatedly.
After Kodi opens:
- Set your preferred language and display settings.
- Sign in only to legitimate, supported services.
- Reinstall add-ons from their official repositories or trusted sources.
- Restore your backup, if you created one.
- Check Settings > System > Updates to review available update preferences.
- Avoid installing large builds that consume storage or change Kodi’s default settings without explanation.
If you use a remote-friendly interface, Kodi should work with the standard Fire Stick remote. For easier text entry, consider the official Amazon Fire TV app or a compatible Bluetooth keyboard.
Fix Common Reinstallation Problems
If the installation fails, restart the Fire Stick by opening Settings > My Fire TV > Restart. You can also unplug the device for about 30 seconds, reconnect it, and try again.
A “not enough storage” message means you need to uninstall unused apps or clear temporary data. To clear Kodi data, go to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications > Kodi, then select Clear cache or Clear data. Be aware that clearing data resets Kodi.
If Downloader cannot access the website, check your Wi-Fi connection and verify that the URL was entered correctly. Do not download APK files from random pop-up pages or unofficial mirrors.
When Kodi installs but will not open, uninstall it again, restart Fire Stick, and download a compatible version from the official Kodi site. Also install pending Fire OS updates under Settings > My Fire TV > About > Check for Updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Kodi without losing my add-ons?
Usually, uninstalling Kodi removes its local data, including add-ons and settings. Back up your Kodi profile before uninstalling if you want to restore your setup.
Is it legal to install Kodi on a Fire Stick?
Yes. Kodi is legal media-center software. However, the legality of content depends on the source and your rights to view it. Use official services and authorized add-ons.
Why is Kodi not showing on my Fire Stick home screen?
Open Your Apps & Channels and select See All. Highlight Kodi and choose Options to move it toward the front of your app list.
Conclusion
Learning how to reinstall Kodi on a Fire Stick is straightforward: uninstall the old app, enable Downloader permissions, install Kodi from its official source, and restore your settings carefully. Keeping enough storage available and using legitimate add-ons will help Kodi run more reliably.
