What You Need to Know
- Is your Vizio remote not working? Dead batteries are the most likely cause
- The problem can also be due to issues with the infrared transmitter on the remote
Introduction
Welcome to our latest blog post, where we delve into the surprisingly common issue of Vizio remotes not working. It’s a frustrating experience: you settle in for a relaxing evening, remote in hand, only to find that your Vizio TV is not working! However, before you consider buying a new remote or calling for technical support, there are several simple yet effective troubleshooting steps you can try.
In this post, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your Vizio remote might be giving you the silent treatment, and the best solutions to your problem!
Why is My Vizio Remote Not Working?
There are a many reasons why your Vizio remote is not working. The most common reasons are:
Dead Batteries
The most common reason for a remote not working is dead or weak batteries. Replacing them with new ones often solves the problem.
Obstructions
Something blocking the path between the remote and the TV can prevent your television from receiving the remote’s infrared signal. Make sure nothing is blocking the lower front portion of the television, this is where the sensor is located.
Distance or Angle
The remote might not work if it’s too far from the TV or pointed at the wrong angle. Typically, IR remotes have a limited range of 30 feet. Remember, if you are off to the side, the remote signal may not work as expected.
Remote Control Infrared Transmitter
The remote control could be damaged or malfunctioning. We will discuss how to check the transmitter on the remote in the next section.
Universal remote may have the wrong code
If you are using a universal remote to control several different devices, you might be using the wrong programming code for your Vizio television. You can find an up to date list of Vizio Programming Codes here.
Stuck Buttons or Other Physical Damage
If the remote has been dropped or exposed to liquids, dust, or dirt it might have sustained physical damage and some of the buttons might be stuck.
Some buttons don’t work
Check to make sure the buttons are not “content dependent“. Content dependent buttons are designed to perform specific functions. For instance, the channel up/down buttons will only work if you are using an antenna or a coaxial cable directly from the wall. If you are using a cable box, you need to use the cable remote to change the channels. Unless you are using a universal remote programmed to control the TV and the cable box.
Make Sure the Infrared Transmitter on Your Remote Control is Working!
The first thing we want do is confirm that the infrared transmitter (IR) on the remote is actually sending a signal. While an infrared signal cannot be seen by people, you can view it through the digital camera on your phone. To test this:
- Open the camera on your phone
- Now point the remote control at the camera without pressing any buttons.
- You should NOT see a light because no buttons are pressed. If you see a light, then there is probably one or more buttons stuck and this will prevent any other buttons from working. Proceed to checking stuck buttons here.
- Next press and hold down the power button while pointing the remote at your camera. You should see a light coming from the remote control. If you do not see a light, your batteries are probably dead and need to be replaced.
7 Ways to Fix Your Vizio Remote Not Working
Now that we have identified that the infrared transmitter is working on the remote, we can move on to the solutions to the problem.
Replace the Batteries
The simplest fix is often the right one! Dead or weak batteries are the most common cause of Vizio remote control issues. Replace them and make sure they are correctly oriented in the battery compartment and then test to see if the issue is fixed.
Check for Stuck Buttons
Inspect each button on the remote to ensure they are not stuck or jammed. Make sure to press each button several times to try to loosen any debris. Stuck buttons can cause continuous signals to be sent to the TV, which prevents other buttons from functioning. Gently clean around the buttons with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or residue.
Remove Obstacles From the Front of the Television
The remote control requires a clear path to the TV’s infrared sensor. On Vizio TV’s these are on the lower front right or lower left part of the TV. Make sure there are no obstacles blocking this line of sight. Objects like books, decorations, or furniture can interfere with the signal.
Remember that the effective range of an IR remote is about 30 feet. Also, you do not want to be too far off to the side when using the remote or it will not communicate with the sensor on the TV properly.
Power Cycle the Remote Control
In this step, we make sure all the power is drained from the remote control. There are two parts to this process. First, remove the batteries from the remote for about a minute. Next, press and hold the Power button for 30 seconds to drain any remaining power from the capacitors inside the remote control. This brief break resets the remote’s internal circuitry. Reinsert the batteries and try using the remote again.
Power Cycle the TV
Sometimes the issue is with the TV, not the remote. To power cycle the television, unplug the Vizio TV from the wall or power strip and wait for 60 seconds before plugging it back in. This will reset the TV’s internal components and may resolve any signal reception issues.
Try a Different Vizio Remote
Most Vizio remote controls can be used across all the different Vizio TV models. If you have another Vizio TV you can try using the second remote on the TV having the problem. If there is not problem with the second remote, then the issue is with your first remote control.
Likewise, you should also try the first remote having the problem on the second Vizio TV. If there is not a problem, then you know the TV is the issue.
Change Your Power Source
Fluctuations in your home’s electrical supply can affect your TV’s performance. Try plugging your TV into a different power outlet. If you are using a power strip try plugging the television directly into the wall. If the remote starts working after this change, the issue may be with your power strip or the original outlet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with remote problems can be a source of frustration, but often the solution is simpler than you might expect.
The key steps involve changing the batteries, checking for obstructions, and ensuring the remote is within the effective range and angle of your television. Remember to also consider power cycling both the remote and the TV, trying a different Vizio remote, or even changing the outlet you are using.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you can quickly resolve the issue and return to enjoying your Vizio TV with minimal hassle. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a universal remote with my Vizio TV?
Yes. You can use a universal remote with your Vizio TV. You will need the correct Vizio code when you are programming the remote control.
Can direct sunlight interfere with the infrared signal to the TV?
According to Sony direct sunlight can impact infrared signals especially if it is shining directly on the sensor on the TV.
Can I use a remote control app on my phone to control my Vizio TV?
Yes. On newer Vizio TV’s you can download the Vizio Mobile App to your phone and use it as a remote control.
Jim is an entrepreneur and technology enthusiast who has over 20 years of experience in the technology field. Over the course of his career he has held numerous tech leadership roles.
Currently, he owns Smarter Tech Talk, a platform he launched in September 2023, dedicated to offering detailed analyses of consumer technology and applications. With this venture he hopes to use his deep expertise and passion for technology to provide others practical advice and guide them through todays complex technology landscape.