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If you’re seeing the frustrating “Conversion failed: The transcoder exited due to an error” message while using Plex — especially when streaming on devices like LG webOS TVs or Xbox — you’re not alone. This error often shows up near the end of a video, commonly during the credits, and can completely disrupt your streaming experience.

Fortunately, there are several reliable solutions to fix this issue in 2025. Let’s walk through them step by step.

✅ 1. Disable Forced Subtitles (.ASS Format Especially)

One of the biggest culprits behind this error is forced subtitles, especially when they’re in the .ASS (Advanced SubStation Alpha) format. These subtitles are more complex and can overwhelm the Plex transcoder.

🔧 What to do:

  • Go into your Plex subtitle settings.

  • Disable “Forced Subtitles.”

  • If you must use subtitles, switch to SRT format instead. It’s lightweight and much more stable.

💡 Why it works:

ASS subtitles contain rich formatting and timing info that can cause the transcoder to crash, particularly on lower-end devices like smart TVs or consoles.

✅ 2. Switch to SRT Subtitles

If you rely on subtitles, converting them to SRT format is highly recommended. The SRT (SubRip Subtitle) format is simple and widely supported by Plex and most playback devices.

🔧 How to convert:

Use free tools like Subtitle Edit or HandBrake to convert .ASS or .SSA subtitles to .SRT.

💡 Pro Tip:

Avoid embedded subtitle streams when possible — external .srt files are easier to manage and debug.

✅ 3. Downgrade Plex Server to Version 1.32.1.6999

Some users have reported that newer Plex versions introduce bugs or changes to the transcoder behavior. Downgrading your Plex Media Server to version 1.32.1.6999 has proven effective for many.

🔧 How to downgrade:

  1. Uninstall your current Plex server.

  2. Visit Plex Downloads Archive and find version 1.32.1.6999.

  3. Install it and restore your library settings if needed.

⚠️ Note:

Always back up your Plex configuration before downgrading.

✅ 4. Remove Subtitle Files from Media Folders

Even if you turn off subtitles in Plex, having them physically present in your media folders (especially forced subs) can trigger errors during transcoding.

🔧 What to do:

  • Navigate to your movie or TV show folders.

  • Delete any .ass, .ssa, or unwanted .srt subtitle files.

  • Restart your Plex server and try again.

✅ 5. Turn Off HDR Tone Mapping

If you’re streaming HDR content, Plex might attempt to tone map the video to SDR — a process that’s heavy on system resources and may cause transcoder failures.

🔧 How to disable:

  • Open Plex Settings → Transcoder.

  • Locate “HDR to SDR tone mapping.”

  • Turn it off.

This fix only applies to HDR content, but it can significantly stabilize playback if your system struggles with color conversion.

✅ 6. Lower the Video Quality for High Bitrate Files

Sometimes, the error isn’t about subtitles or updates — it’s the sheer video file size and bitrate. High bitrate content (like 4K Blu-ray rips) can overwhelm the transcoder.

🔧 What to do:

  • In your Plex app, manually reduce the video quality setting (e.g., from “Original” to 1080p 8Mbps).

  • On weaker devices or networks, even 720p can provide smooth playback without errors.

✅ 7. Add Plex to Your Firewall Exceptions

Firewall restrictions can interfere with how Plex communicates with your device or handles transcoding.

🔧 Steps (Windows example):

  1. Open Windows Defender Firewall.

  2. Go to “Allow an app through firewall.”

  3. Add Plex Media Server.exe to both private and public networks.

🔒 Why it matters:

A blocked connection could cause delays or failure in delivering transcoded data to your device.

🎯 Final Thoughts

The “transcoder exited due to an error” message is often caused by a mix of subtitle issues, transcoder overload, and firewall restrictions. By following the steps above, most users can eliminate the error and enjoy seamless streaming on Plex.

🛠 Recap of Fixes:

  • Disable forced or .ASS subtitles

  • Use SRT subtitles

  • Downgrade Plex to version 1.32.1.6999

  • Remove subtitle files from media folders

  • Turn off HDR tone mapping

  • Lower playback quality

  • Add Plex to firewall exceptions

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