HBO Max offers premium streaming, but error codes like 1k-0033, 999, and others can quickly ruin your viewing experience. Whether it's a location issue, connectivity glitch, or app malfunction, these problems can be frustrating—especially when you’re just trying to relax.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common HBO Max error codes, what causes them, and how to fix each one step by step. Plus, we’ll show you a reliable way to avoid errors entirely—by downloading HBO Max content for offline viewing.

Part 1: Common Types of HBO Max Errors (Categorized)

HBO Max error codes generally fall into five main categories based on their causes: location issues, app bugs, network failures, account problems, or device compatibility. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Location & VPN Errors:

a. Error 1k-0033/1010 - This error denotes a geolocation error. It can happen when the system detects a VPN. The ideal solution is to disable the VPN or proxy.

b. Not available in region: The common message flashed on your screen reads "Not Available in Region." It means that the content is blocked due to licensing issues, which cannot be bypassed.

Fix: Unfortunately, there’s no workaround if you’re in an unsupported region.

2. App & Server Errors:

a. Error 500 / 1008: These are server-side issues.

Fix: Wait and try again later.

b. Error 1010 / 1020 / 1021: Indicates app malfunction.

Fix: Restart, update, or reinstall the Max app.

c. Error 999: A generic error often fixed by clearing the cache or switching devices.

3. Connectivity & Playback Errors

a. Error 100 / 1002: Network issues.

Fix: Restart your modem/router or update the app. 

b. Error 420 / 321: Playback/server communication problems.

  Fix: Wait it out or update the app.

c. “Can’t Play Title”: Content-specific playback error.

Fix: Try another show or restart the app.

4. Account & Subscription Errors:

a. Error 300/905: Account or subscription problems can cause these errors. Ideally, the solution is to log out and back in. Verifying the payment method can also resolve this issue.

b. 1009/1009: Authorization or billing issues are the primary reasons for these error messages. Please check your subscription and payment method.

c. Authentication error: This error message indicates trouble verifying your account. You can try resetting the password. Otherwise, please contact the HBO support team.

5. Device Compatibility Errors:

a. Error 400 / 1004: Device not supported.

  Fix: Try a different device or update your firmware.

b. Error 21: Specific to older Samsung TVs.

Fix: Clear app cache or reinstall.

Part 2: What is HBO Max Error 1k-0033 and how to fix it?

What it means:

HBO Max Error 1k-0033 occurs when the platform cannot verify your location or account details. This is often due to:

• Trying to access HBO Max from an unsupported country
• Using a VPN or proxy
• Account authentication problems
• Network instability

Fixes for Error 1k-0033:

1. Disable VPN or Proxy:

Step 1: Turn off your VPN or proxy services.

Step 2: Restart your Max app or browser.

Step 3: Please try reaccessing Max.

2. Reauthenticate your account:

Step 1: Sign out of your Max account.

Step 2: Close the app or browser.

Step 3: Log in again and confirm your subscription is active

3. Restarting your internet connection:

Step 1: Unplug your modem/router for 30 seconds

Step 2: Plug it back in and wait for a full reconnect

4. Clear cache and cookies:

• On your browser: Go to Settings > clear browsing data > select cache and cookies > restart your browser.
• On your mobile: Go to device settings > apps > Max > storage > clear cache.

5. Update the Max app:

• Go to your app store and update the Max app
• Relaunch it and try streaming again.

6. Contact Max Support:

If none of these steps work, visit the Max Help Center for device-specific help. 

Part 3: What Is HBO Max Error Code 999 & How to Fix It

What it means:

Error 999 is a generic streaming error. While it doesn’t point to a specific cause, it's usually due to internet issues, app cache, or account problems.

Fixes for Error 999:

• Restart your browser or app
• Run a speed test (HD streaming needs at least 5 Mbps)
• Clear browser or app cache
• Update the Max app and your device OS
• Try a different video
• Disable VPN or proxy
• Reinstall the app
• Contact Max support if the issue persists

Part 4: Fixes for Other Common HBO Max Error Codes

Part 5: Download HBO Max Videos and Watch Without Errors

Imagine you're watching your favorite show on HBO Max when—bam—an error code pops up and ruins the moment. Instead of dealing with frustrating interruptions, there's a smarter way: download HBO Max videos for offline viewing with a tool that eliminates ads and error messages altogether.

Features and Benefits:

• Supports downloads from HBO Max and other major streaming platforms
• Customize video resolution and format to suit your device
• Add subtitles in your preferred language
• Batch download multiple episodes or movies at once

Step-by-step

Step 1: Download and install Eassiy One-stop Streaming Video Downloader—StreamFox. Use the free trial. However, registering with StreamFox allows you to enjoy all the benefits.

Step 2: Open the tool and select HBO Max as the streaming platform.

Step 3: Sign in to HBO Max using StreamFox’s integrated browser.

Step 4: Visit the HBO Max gallery. Look for the video you want to download and add the title to the queue by dragging it to the red box. Alternatively, type the video URL in the search bar and add it to the queue.

Step 5: Are you looking to download multiple videos? Check the boxes and add them to the queue.

Step 6: Adjust the video resolution to your preferred settings.

Step 7: Click the drop-down box menu and choose your preferred video output format. Click “Convert All.”

Step 8: Your downloaded videos are saved in the “Finished” section. Click “View Output File” to view the movie you have downloaded.

Part 6: FAQs

1. Is there any comprehensive single document listing all HBO Error codes?

No. There is no single comprehensive document listing all HBO Max error codes. We have covered almost all the common error codes in this article.

2. Why do you get the "Something went wrong" message when watching HBO Max?

Weak internet connectivity or a corrupted app cache can prevent HBO Max from loading content properly. Similarly, outdated app or device software can cause compatibility issues. Account or subscription issues can also affect your HBO viewing experience. Temporary server outages, VPN interference, and conflicts with firewalls or DNS can also cause playback issues. Under all such circumstances, HBO Max flashes the “Something went wrong” message on the screen.

3. Does using a VPN resolve HBO Max connectivity errors?

HBO Max is available in the US alone. You need to use a VPN or a proxy server to view HBO Max if you are outside the US. Using a VPN does not resolve connectivity errors, but turning it off certainly does.

Conclusion

HBO Max error codes—like 1k-0033, 999, or Can't Play Title—can ruin your binge-watch plans. While many issues are user-fixable, server-side problems may require patience. This guide helps you understand and fix all common HBO Max errors in 2025.

And for a permanent fix, use StreamFox to download your favorite HBO Max content for uninterrupted offline viewing—no buffering, no ads, no errors.