Do you have a problem where the Roku remote stopped working and won’t respond to commands all of a sudden? I have used Roku devices for over 5 years and have encountered this problem several times. You can usually fix problems with the Roku remote with these troubleshooting steps.
In This Guide
Check Power
Batteries can short out suddenly, or simply die. Ensure the batteries in your remote are fresh and that they are inserted in the proper direction in the compartment. Most Roku remotes require you to insert both batteries into the compartment with the positive side pointing toward the top of the remote, which is quite abnormal. Rotate the batteries around while they are in the compartment to see if that improves the battery connections.
If you have a new Roku remote, ensure the battery tab is removed.
For Roku remotes that have an internal rechargeable battery, the Roku usually notifies you with an on-screen message that the battery is low.
You can charge the rechargeable remote by plugging the micro-USB charging cable to the port at the bottom of the remote and a power outlet.
Restart Roku
Sometimes a simple restart is all that’s needed to clear up problems with the remote.
Try unplugging the power from the Roku, waiting 10 seconds, then plugging it back in.
Check for Obstructions
Make sure that nothing is covering the Roku in a manner that would block the signal from the remote. Also check that there is no debris on the top of the Roku remote that may be blocking the beam.
Reset Remote
Remove the batteries from the Roku remote for about 15 seconds, then place them back into the remote. This will reset the remote hardware, and hopefully get your device back up and running.
Reset Roku & Remote
These steps commonly fix Roku remote problems after you install new batteries.
- Remove the batteries from the Roku remote.
- Use the Roku mobile app from your iOS or Android device to navigate to Settings > System > System restart > Restart to restart the Roku. Alternately, you could remove the power cord from the Roku for 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
- When the Roku restarts, place the batteries back in the Roku remote.
- Press and hold the “Pair” button located inside the battery compartment of the remote for 20 seconds or until you see the pairing light flashing. If your remote does not have a pairing button, press and hold both the Home and Back buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds.
Check Remote Compatibility
Ensure you are using a Roku remote control that is compatible with your particular device. Roku TV Streaming Stick remotes will not work with Roku box models, and vice versa. Some of the newer remotes also won’t work with older versions of the Roku.
As an owner of three different Roku devices, I can say from experience that it’s very easy to get the remotes mixed up.
Eliminate Interference
In rare instances, any bright lighting or other electronic devices may interfere with the ability for the remote to communicate with the Roku. Try turning off any lighting around your devices. Shut down anything in the area that uses a Bluetooth channel such as speakers, headphones, or smartphones.
Power Drain TV (Roku TV)
Owners of the Roku TV can try to perform a power drain on their TV to fix problems with the remote control. Perform a power drain with these steps:
- Unplug the Roku TV.
- Press and hold the power button on the TV (usually located on the side or under the logo in the center of the TV) for about 30 seconds.
- Plug the TV back in and see if your remote works now.
Reprogram Remote
There are cases where the power, direction, and other buttons work just fine, but the volume buttons suddenly stopped working for some reason. This usually means that the remote has lost its programming for your television. To fix this issue, you will need to reprogram the remote control using these steps:
- Starting from the Home screen of the Roku, select “Settings” on the left pane menu.
- Select “Remotes & devices“.
- Choose “Remotes“.
- A list of remotes is displayed. Select the one you are using. It is likely you want to select the one labeled “(In use)“.
- Select “Set Up Remote for TV Control“. You will then be prompted with questions about hearing music. Answer them to complete the remote setup.
Hardware Replacement
If you have tried all of the above steps and still have problems with your Roku remote, the remote hardware may be damaged. Try contacting Roku Customer Support to see about a solution. You may also want to find a replacement remote or use the Roku mobile app.
Roku TV owners should contact the TV manufacturer.
I hope this guide has helped you fix the problem with your Roku remote not working. Drop a comment below and let us know if you solved your problem.