How To Fix A Roku Remote Not Working

Roku remotes make navigating your Roku device so simple, but what happens when it suddenly stops working? Don’t worry—I’ve been there, and I’m here to help. Let’s go through the most common fixes step by step. By the end of this blog, you should have your Roku remote working perfectly again.

It’s important to remember that technology can sometimes be unpredictable. A Roku remote that worked flawlessly yesterday might face issues today due to simple reasons like battery depletion, connectivity hiccups, or even physical damage. With a bit of patience and the right guidance, you can tackle these issues and get back to streaming your favorite content.

1. Check the Batteries

One of the simplest reasons a Roku remote stops working is dead or low batteries. Here’s what you should do:

1. Remove the back cover of your Roku remote.
2. Take out the old batteries.
3. Insert new batteries, ensuring they’re aligned properly with the plus (+) and minus (-) symbols.
4. Replace the back cover and test the remote.

If you’re experiencing issues, such as the Roku remote not working with new batteries, it could be due to defective, improperly installed, or incompatible batteries. It’s a good idea to double-check the installation and compatibility to rule out any problems.

2. Re-Pair Your Roku Remote

If changing the batteries doesn’t work, your Roku remote might have lost its connection to the device. Here’s how to re-pair it:

1. Remove the batteries from the remote.
2. Unplug your Roku device and wait 10 seconds before plugging it back in.
3. Once the Roku home screen appears, insert the batteries into the remote.
4. Press and hold the pairing button located inside the battery compartment for about 5 seconds or until you see the pairing light flashing.
5. Wait for a message on your TV screen confirming the remote is paired.

3. Reset Your Roku Remote

A reset can often resolve stubborn issues. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the batteries from your remote.
2. Unplug your Roku device and wait for 30 seconds.
3. Plug the Roku back in and wait for it to reboot fully.
4. Reinsert the batteries and hold down the pairing button for 5 seconds.
5. Your remote should reconnect and work as expected.

4. Check for Physical Damage

If your remote has been dropped or exposed to liquid, it may be physically damaged. Here’s what to do:

1. Inspect the remote for cracks, broken buttons, or signs of water damage.
2. If it’s damaged, you might need to purchase a replacement remote. You can find official Roku remotes online or in electronics stores. For options, check out this guide to the best universal remotes for Roku.

5. Use the Roku Mobile App

While fixing the remote, you can still control your Roku device using the Roku mobile app. Here’s how:

1. Use the on-screen remote to control your Roku.
2. Download the Roku app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
3. Connect your smartphone to the same Wi-Fi network as your Roku device.
4. Open the app and select your Roku device.

This is a great temporary solution while you troubleshoot or wait for a replacement remote.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a Roku remote that’s not working can be frustrating, but with these steps, you’ll likely have it working in no time. I’ve been through this process myself, and most of the time, it’s something simple like re-pairing or changing the batteries. If none of the solutions work, using the Roku mobile app is a lifesaver until you can get a replacement remote. Good luck, and happy streaming!

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