Samsung TV remote not working? Here's how to fix it
⚡ Fast fix
- Power up. Swap out the remote batteries or charge the remote via a USB-C cable.
- Clear the way. Remove anything that blocks the line of sight between the remote and your TV sensor.
- Restart your TV. Turn on your TV, unplug it, wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
TV remotes always seem to stop working at the worst possible moment, usually when you're just trying to unwind after a hard day at work. Fortunately, Asurion Experts know how to fix a Samsung® TV remote that's not working.
From Samsung TV Wi-Fi connection problems to troubleshooting Samsung TV apps, Asurion is here to help. Try our guide on how to fix a Samsung TV remote that’s not working, whether your remote uses replaceable batteries, SolarCell charging, or wireless pairing.
Check your Samsung remote's batteries or charging status
If your Samsung TV remote is not working with a blinking red light, it doesn’t have sufficient power. The batteries are low or dead. So, your first step should be to figure out your remote’s power source and troubleshoot it.
Look at the back of the remote. If there’s a physical battery compartment cover, your remote takes replaceable batteries. If there’s a USB-C port on the remote, it charges via a USB-C cable. If there’s a solar panel, your remote has a SolarCell battery that recharges by light exposure (with USB-C charging as a backup).
In a traditional remote, try replacing the batteries in case the previous ones are drained. Make sure you situate the batteries with the positive and negative ends facing the right directions. If you have a rechargeable remote, plug it in with a compatible cord and leave it to charge. For SolarCell® models, you can also leave the remote in direct sunlight for a few hours.
Re-pair your Samsung Smart Remote to your TV
If you suspect your Samsung Smart Remote® stopped working because it’s no longer paired, like after you reset your Samsung TV, follow these steps to re-pair it.
- Turn on your TV.
- Aim the Samsung Smart Remote at the remote sensor on the lower-right side or lower center of your Samsung TV.
- Press and hold the Return and Play/Pause buttons for at least five seconds.
- Wait while the remote syncs with your TV.
- Once you see a “connected” message on TV, your remote is ready to use.
If your remote won’t pair, turn the TV off and back on to clear any temporary glitches. Keep in mind that infrared signal problems, such as interference blocking the signal between your remote and the TV, are likely behind remote pairing issues. Bluetooth pairing issues are less likely.
Restart your Samsung TV to fix remote connection issues
A TV restart may resolve temporary TV software problems with a Samsung TV remote control that’s not working, especially when other troubleshooting steps don’t help. Follow these steps.
- Turn on your TV.
- Unplug the TV power cord from the wall outlet.
- Wait one minute to let any residual electrical charge drain.
- Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet.
- Turn on your TV.
Try a restart first. If the problem persists, a TV factory reset could help, but it will erase all user settings. Another troubleshooting step to try for a Samsung TV remote that’s not responding to the TV is checking the remote's IR signal with your phone camera if the issue persists and the remote supports IR transmission. Try setting up a universal remote to control your TV until you solve the Samsung remote problem.
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FAQ
How do I re-pair my Samsung Smart Remote?
Re-pair your Samsung Smart Remote with your TV by pointing the remote at the sensor on your TV with the TV on. Press and hold the Return and Play/Pause buttons for at least five seconds. Keep holding the buttons down until you see a message on your TV that your remote is now connected.
Can I use my phone as a Samsung TV remote?
Yes, you can use your phone as a remote for your Samsung TV if you download the Samsung SmartThings app. Make sure your phone and your Samsung Smart TV are both connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then, download and open the SmartThings app on your phone and sign in to your Samsung account. Add your TV by going to Devices > Add (+) > Device. Choose TV and select your TV from the list. Use the remote by selecting the Remote icon in the app.
Why is my Samsung SolarCell remote not charging?
If your Samsung SolarCell remote is not charging, it may not be getting enough light exposure to maintain power. Keep it in a brightly lit room or under direct sunlight for a few hours. Alternatively, the USB-C port or cable may be defective, so try a different cable.
How do I reset my Samsung TV without a remote?
Without a remote, reset your Samsung TV using the Samsung Control Button on the TV or the SmartThings app. With the TV on, press the Control button to bring up the menu and use short presses of the button to navigate. Go to Settings > General & Privacy (or General) > Reset. If you have to enter a PIN, use 0000.
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