Roku Remote Not Working – Simple Ways to Fix

Each Roku device has a remote control to manage it similar to any other electronic gadget. Roku remote may not work due to various reasons. Regardless of the reason, one should know the troubleshooting methods to fix the issue immediately. In this guide, we will show you the possible walkaround when your Roku remote stopped working or does not work properly.

Types of Roku remote

Before getting into the troubleshooting steps, the user should get aware of the Roku remote type. The problems may occur depending on the type of Roku remote you’re using.

1. Standard IR Remote ($15)

• Roku LT
• Roku HD/XD/XDS
• Roku 1
• Roku 2
• Roku 2 HD/XD/XS,
• Roku 3
• Roku Express
• Roku Express

2. Enhanced Point-Anywhere Remote ($30)

• Roku Streaming Stick (model 3600 and 3800)
• Roku Streaming Stick+
• Roku 4
• Roku Premiere
• Roku Premiere +
• Roku Ultra
• Roku 2(Model 4210)

Different Ways to Fix When Roku Remote Stopped Working

1. Verify IR signal (for IR remotes only)
2. Examine the batteries
3. Hardware Issues
4. Check internet connections
5. User HDMI extender
6. Re-pair the remote
7. Use Roku Mobile App
8. Reset Roku Remote
9. Use Different Remote

Verify the IR Signal

If your Roku IR remote is not working, you must use it on the line of sight to your Roku device. Also, ensure that there is any blockage at the line of the IR. If there are any obstacles, clear them immediately. And, don’t place any other IR devices like kids’ IR toys. These will disturb the IR signal from the remote.

There is a simple way to check the IR signal from the Roku remote. Take your smartphone and the remote. Start to record a video on your smartphone covering the IR receiver of the remote. While recording the video, press any button on the Roku remote and check if the IR LED is blinking or not. If it is blinking, then there is no issue with the remote. If there is no IR indication, there is some battery issue or hardware issue in the remote.

Examine Batteries

One of the most common reasons for the remote not working is due to dead batteries. Remove the battery compartment and replace the old batteries with new ones. If the remote fails to work even with new batteries, you have to look for other solutions.

Hardware Issues

When you are using a remote for a longer period of time, there might be some issues with hardware components. The remote’s circuit board might have been damaged, some burned spots or any other unusual marks. Disassemble the remote to find out the issue. If you find any corrosion marks, use isopropyl alcohol to remove the corrosion marks. But, make sure, that if you do any extra damages to the remote, you can’t get the warranty.

Check Internet Connection

Check whether the Roku-connected WiFi network is working properly or not.

[1] Open Settings in your Roku device.

[2] Select the Network Settings.

[3] Under the Network settings, click on Check connection.

[4] It will show you whether the internet is connected or not.

Use HDMI extender

If you’re using Roku Streaming Stick models, you can directly connect the device to the TV’s HDMI port. Hence your device may not receive the signal properly due to your TV. In that case, you can use the HDMI extender (provided in the box) to keep your streaming device away from the TV. It will help the device to receive the signal properly.

Re-pair the Remote

Re-pair or reset the Roku remote will help you to fix certain issues. To re-pair,

[1] Open the battery compartment in your Roku remote and remove the batteries.

[2] Press and hold on to the pairing button or reset button until the pairing light starts to blink in green color. The green light blinking on the remote indicates that it is trying or attempting to pair. (In some Roku remotes, pairing LED light will be available at the front side of the remote or near the pairing button).

[3] Now, place the batteries. Sometimes, the remote will be paired automatically. If not, pair the remote with your Roku manually.

Resetting the Roku remote involves the same steps as mentioned above. If the remote is not flashing light or no light appears means, there is an issue with the remote. You have to change the remote.

Use Roku Mobile App

One of the advantages of Roku is that you can control the device using the Roku Mobile app on your Android or iPhone.

[1] Download and install the app on your smartphone.

[2] Now, open the Roku remote app and wait for the app to find nearby devices. Both your smartphone and Roku device must be on the same WiFi network to connect with each other.

[3] Select your Roku device from the list.

[4] Now, you can control all your TV actions from your mobile.

If your smartphone is not detecting your Roku device, there are two possible reasons. One is the VPN connection and the other one is the Network Access. Turn on the VPN connection on your smartphone or in the WiFi router. For Network Access, you need to make changes to the Roku device. Go to Settings –> System –> Advanced System Settings –> Control By Mobile Apps –> Network Access –> Choose Default or Permissive. (To change network access on Roku, you have to new remote that pairs automatically).

Use Different Remote

If the IR remote of your Roku device is not working, you can use the Enhanced remote. Enhanced remote will work on most of the Roku devices except a few old devices. All the Roku TVs will support enhanced remotes. From the launch of the Roku device to till date, there are four types of remotes available. The Roku 2 & 3 model remote, Roku Express & the older Roku model remote. You can check the Roku website for the compatibility of all Roku remotes.

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