Remote control doesn't work (TV)

The device's IR sensor receives the instructions you send to it using your remote control. If you have put any object over the device's IR sensor, make sure to remove it as the IR sensor won't be able to detect the instructions sent by the remote control.

Usually, the sensors are located around the logo, next to the stand-by light, or in the lower, right part of the device.

Maybe the remote control doesn't work because its batteries are worn out. All you need to do is to replace them. When inserting the new batteries, make sure to position them in the right direction.

Note: Make sure to buy ALKALINE batteries, because the cheaper ones can leak and the liquid can corrode the battery terminals if not removed on time.

Remote controls can't be used interchangeably on any TV, DVD player, etc. For example, a remote control designed for Philips TVs, won't work on LG, Samsung, etc. An exception to this rule are universal remote controls which can be used interchangeably, but after they are programmed (by inputting a 3-digit code, available in a manual).

Make sure that the remote control works, by testing it using a camera, as shown in the video below:

Note: The method shown in the video won't work on iPhone's camera.

If the remote control works, that means that the remote is not compatible with your device. To get the appropriate remote control, write down the device's model number, located on the back side, and go to a store. Alternatively, you can order it through your device manufacturer's website.

If the battery terminals are dirty, they won't recognize the batteries and as a result, the remote control won't work. Open the remote control's battery compartment, remove the batteries and clean the battery terminals with a screwdriver. Afterwards, wipe the terminals with a small piece of cotton with some isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on it.

If the remote control's sensor is dirty, it won't transmit instructions to the recipient's sensor (TVs, DVD's, etc.), therefore the device won't recognize the remote control. All, you need to do is to ensure that the sensor is perfectly clean.

Note: DO NOT use water to clean the sensor, as it will corrode, and will need to be replaced.

Over time the buttons (the keypad) and the circuit boards of remote controls get greasy, which results in you being unable to use the greasy button. If some of your remote control's buttons don't work (usually the ones which are frequently used) you need to disassemble the remote and clean the buttons.

Feel free to watch the video below to see how greasy buttons look like and to learn how to clean the remote control:

If you haven't entered the correct code, given in the remote control's list of codes, the remote control won't be able to operate the device. Also, if this issue occurred after you have replaced the remote control's batteries, you need to re-enter the code.

If you need help to resolve this issue, contact Panasonic's customer support team, which you can reach if you dial the following number: +1 800-211-7262.

If you didn't manage to reach them through the above-mentioned number, contact them online on their website (click here to visit it).

Maybe the remote control doesn't work, due to a hardware-related issue. Maybe the diode, i.e. the transmitter of instructions, stopped functioning, a terminal got unsoldered, or maybe the board is cracked.

The video below will help you diagnose and repair the remote control:

Maybe the code you just entered doesn't cover all the functions of your device. If some of the buttons on the remote control don't work, change the code with another one given in the remote control's codes list.

On some remote controls, when a button is pressed for longer than a few minutes, the remote control goes into battery-saving mode. All you need to do is to press certain button or a combination of buttons (as stated in the manual) to disable this mode.

If you don't know which keys to press, removing the batteries and inserting them after a few minutes should disable the battery-saving mode.

Universal remote controls can be programmed to work with different types of devices. Some of them include TVs, DVD/Blu-ray players, etc. So, if you accidentally pressed the VCR / DVD / SAT button on the remote control, you will switch the code, and as a result the remote control won't work on your TV. All you need to do is to press the TV button, usually found in the upper parts of the remote control, and the remote control should start working again.

Maybe the universal remote control you are trying to use doesn't support your device. If the remote control does work, but you can't program it, buy another remote control which will support your device.

Maybe the remote control is fully functional and the TV is not plugged in a power outlet, or even its power switch is not turned on. Double-check that the TV is plugged in a power outlet, and that the power outlet works.

If the TV's IR sensor is dirty, it won't be able to read the instructions you send through the remote control. All you need to do is to clean the TV's IR sensor, usually located near the logo, or on the bottom right side of the TV.

If your Sony's remote control doesn't work, it is possible that there is something wrong with the device. Consider, contacting Sony's customer support team, which you can reach if you dial the following number: +1 800-222-7669.

If you didn't manage to reach them through the above-mentioned number, contact them online on their website (click here to visit it).

If your Samsung's remote control doesn't work, it is possible that there is something wrong with the device. In this case, try contacting Samsung's customer support service and ask them for a piece of advice. You can reach through the following number: +1 800-726-7864.

Also, you can contact them online through their website (click here to visit it).

Contact LG's customer service if you need a piece of advice on how to resolve this issue. You can reach them if you dial the following number: +1 800-243-0000.

Another way to contact them if you didn't manage to reach them through the phone, is through their website (click here to visit it).

Contact Philips's customer support team, should you need their guidance, by dialling the following number: +1 888-744-5477.

If you didn't manage to reach them through the above-mentioned number, contact them online on their website (click here to visit it).

Contact Toshiba's customer support team if you are not sure what to do in order to resolve this problem. You can contact them by dialing the following number: +1 800-457-7777.

If you didn't manage to reach them through the above-mentioned number, contact them online on their website (click here to visit it).

If your device doesn't recognize instructions from the remote control and you are not sure which course of action to take, contact Vizio's customer support team, which you can reach if you dial the following number: +1 855-833-3221.

If you dialed the above-mentioned number and didn't manage to reach them, you can contact them online on their website (click here to visit it).

If your device's remote control doesn't operate your device properly, contact your device manufacturer's customer support team, which you can get on their website, the instructions manual, etc.

Also, you can contact them online, through their website, provided that they have one.

The remote control won't work if you have put the batteries in the wrong direction. Remove the battery and check the engraved drawing on the remote control as it shows the direction in which the battery should be put.