How to Fix an LG TV Remote When It's Not Working

Fix an unresponsive LG TV or remote

Co-authored by Rain Kengly Reviewed by Stan Kats

Last Updated: September 3, 2024 Fact Checked

If your LG TV isn't responding to the Magic Remote, you may need to change the battery, check the Bluetooth, or reset it entirely. Luckily, this can be done in a few simple steps. Here's what to do if your LG TV remote is not working with expert tips from TV Installation Specialist Jocotra Cathey.

1

Change the batteries.

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Check the batteries. Make sure you have fresh batteries put into your remote. If you know the batteries are new, double-check that the batteries are placed properly, with the Positive and Negative ends fitted securely.
- Cathey advises to "make sure that they have a good connection and that you don't see any corrosion or the little white powder."^{[1]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Jocotra Cathey
  TV Mounting Service Expert
  
  Expert Interview} This indicates a faulty battery.
- To test the battery, press and hold the Power button. If it doesn't light up, you'll need to change your batteries out.

2

Check the IR signal.

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Make sure your remote is sending an IR signal. This is an infrared light that you can't see, but you can use the camera on your phone to detect it. Point the remote at your camera and hold the Power button. On your camera, check for a colored light coming from the remote.
- If you see a light, make sure the TV has a direct line of sight. There shouldn't be any objects blocking the TV's IR sensor, which is typically at the bottom center, near the logo.

3

Check the remote's Bluetooth.

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Check the Bluetooth signal. If your Magic Remote isn't responding, it most likely lost its Bluetooth signal.^{[2]
X
Research source} To check:
- Press and hold Home and Back buttons for 5 seconds to deregister the remote.
- Turn Bluetooth on your smartphone and search for a new device.
- Press OK on your remote.
- If the remote isn't showing up, the Bluetooth capability may be damaged. You may need to order a replacement remote.

4

Reset the remote.

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Factory reset the remote. This process will vary depending on your device.^{[3]
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Research source}
- Magic Remote (2021 and later): Press and hold Home and Settings for 5 seconds. The LED will blink 3 times.
- Magic Remote (2021 and earlier): Press and hold Guide for 5 seconds. The LED will blink 3 times. Press the Wheel button to register it again.
- Magic Remote (no guide button): Press Home and Back for 5 seconds. The LED will blink 3 times. Press the Wheel button to register it again.

5

Move other devices away.

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If you have routers or other devices too close to your TV, it may interfere with the radio frequency. Try moving these devices a few feet away from your TV, and then try using your remote again.

6

Restart your TV.

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Wait about 30 seconds after unplugging it. Once it's turned back on, try using your remote again.

7

Order a replacement.

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Purchase a new remote. If all else fails, you can purchase a new remote. You can also try using a different remote, if available.
- You can purchase a new remote at https://lgparts.com/collections/television or contact LG customer service.