Samsung TV Remote Not Working? 10 Easy Fixes

Quick Fix

Samsung TV remote not working? Replace the batteries first – even new batteries can be faulty. Then point the remote at TV and hold Return + Play/Pause for 5 seconds to re-pair. If using a Smart Remote, remove batteries, hold Power button for 8 seconds, reinsert batteries and try again.

Why Isn’t Samsung TV Remote Working?

Samsung remotes fail due to dead batteries, lost pairing, infrared blockage, interference from other devices, or hardware damage. Samsung Smart Remotes use Bluetooth and need pairing, while older remotes use infrared requiring line-of-sight to the TV.

Method 1: Replace Batteries

Battery issues are the most common cause.

1. Remove battery cover (slide or press tab)
2. Remove old batteries
3. Insert fresh AA or AAA batteries
4. Check polarity (+/- orientation)
5. Use quality alkaline batteries
6. Try remote immediately

Method 2: Re-pair Smart Remote

Samsung Smart Remotes use Bluetooth pairing.

1. Point remote at TV’s IR sensor
2. Press and hold Return + Play/Pause buttons
3. Hold for 5 seconds
4. Wait for “Pairing Complete” message
5. Test all buttons

Method 3: Reset Smart Remote

Clear remote’s settings completely.

1. Remove batteries from remote
2. Press and hold Power button for 8 seconds
3. This drains residual power
4. Wait 30 seconds
5. Insert fresh batteries
6. Re-pair with TV

Method 4: Check IR Sensor

Infrared remotes need clear path to TV.

1. Point remote directly at TV
2. Remove objects blocking TV’s bottom edge
3. TV’s IR sensor is usually at bottom center
4. Stand within 15 feet of TV
5. Dim bright lights that may interfere

Method 5: Test Remote with Camera

Verify if remote is sending IR signals.

1. Open phone camera
2. Point remote at camera lens
3. Press any remote button
4. Look for purple/white flash on screen
5. If no flash, remote or batteries are dead

Method 6: Power Cycle TV

Reset TV’s remote receiver.

1. Unplug TV from wall power
2. Wait 60 seconds
3. Press TV’s power button for 30 seconds (while unplugged)
4. Plug TV back in
5. Try remote

Method 7: Use SmartThings App

Control TV while troubleshooting remote.

1. Download SmartThings app
2. Connect phone to same WiFi as TV
3. Add TV to app
4. Use phone as virtual remote
5. Access TV settings to troubleshoot

Method 8: Check for Interference

Other devices can block remote signals.

• Move other remotes away from TV
• Turn off nearby Bluetooth devices
• Remove LED lights or sound bars blocking IR
• Check for reflective surfaces bouncing IR

Method 9: Update TV Software

Software bugs affect remote connectivity.

1. Using SmartThings or TV buttons: Settings > Support
2. Select Software Update
3. Click Update Now
4. Wait for installation
5. TV will restart
6. Try remote again

Method 10: Factory Reset TV

Last resort for persistent issues.

1. Using TV buttons or app: Settings > General
2. Select Reset
3. Enter PIN (default: 0000)
4. Confirm reset
5. Set up TV again
6. Remote should pair during setup

FAQ

Why does my Samsung remote work sometimes?

Intermittent issues indicate low batteries, weak Bluetooth connection, or IR interference. Replace batteries first, then try re-pairing the remote. Check for objects periodically blocking the IR sensor.

Can I use any remote with Samsung TV?

Universal remotes work for basic functions via IR. For smart features, you need a Samsung Smart Remote or the SmartThings app. Third-party remotes won’t have voice control or smart features.

Why won’t my Samsung Smart Remote pair?

Ensure TV is on and fully booted. Stand close to TV (within 1 foot) when pairing. Remove batteries, hold power 8 seconds, reinsert, then hold Return + Play/Pause for 5 seconds while pointing at TV.