Chromecast is a convenient way to access all of your streaming services in one place.
Just like any other digital media, there can be errors that occur, causing your system not to work properly.
If your remote isn’t working, we have some fixes for you.
Your Chromecast remote may stop working if there are connection issues, system issues, or problems with the battery in the remote. Start troubleshooting with the easiest solution first: changing the batteries. If the problem persists, you can try factory resetting the remote or the Chromecast.
Let’s take a closer look at these common issues that cause your Chromecast remote to stop working and how to fix them.
Connection Issues
Connection issues can happen with any remote control from your cable to Chromecast.
They are common among anything requiring a cordless connection.
Sometimes the signal from your device will not reach the destination.
There is rarely a specific reason why this happens, but if it happens frequently, it could be a sign of a deeper issue.
So, if it persists, consider getting the system looked at or replacing it.
But for those one-off times when the remote stops connecting to your Chromecast, we have a fix.
1. Pair the Remote Again
The first step to re-pair the remote is to remove it from your recognized devices in your Chromecast settings.
In your settings, choose “forget device” to remove your remote if it isn’t already removed.
Once your Chromecast forgets the remote, and it is removed from settings, pair it again.
To do this, choose the option to pair a device in your Chromecast settings.
On your remote, hold down the “back” and “home” buttons to make your remote discoverable.
Once the remote is connected to the Chromecast, the light on the remote will flash.
At this point, your remote is paired with your Chromecast and ready to use.
Battery Problems
Battery-related issues are another common reason that your Chromecast remote may not be working.
The fix may be as simple as replacing the batteries.
Whether the batteries were put in the remote incorrectly or just need to be readjusted, it’s worth trying this easy fix before moving on to other more complicated solutions.
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2. Remove the Batteries and Put Them Back In
This is the easiest way to check if there is an issue with the placement of batteries. As you remove the batteries, check to see if they were out of place.
If so, there could have been an error putting them in, or they could have been knocked out of place if the remote was dropped.
Whatever the cause, replace the batteries correctly in the remote and see if that helps.
3. Check the Batteries for Remaining Charge
Some batteries will show you how much charge they have left, but this is not common. So, most of the time, it is up to you to figure it out.
You can try to use the batteries in other battery-powered devices in your home.
This is a common way to figure out if it is the battery or something else.
If these options don’t work, then there are other ways to test your batteries.
One of the most curious examples involves bouncing your battery to tell if it is dead.
So, try out these ideas to tell if your batteries are the problem.
4. Replace the Batteries if Needed
If you tried the above ideas for testing your batteries and they are dead, it is time to replace them.
Make sure when you replace them that you are using new batteries that haven’t already been used.
It’s always a good idea to have a pair of extra batteries available.
Also, be sure to place the batteries in the remote securely, so they do not move around if the remote is dropped.
Once the new batteries are in, make sure your remote works now. If it doesn’t then, we have more work to do.
System Error
A system error can occur at any time, and it can have several different effects.
Whether it is the remote or the Chromecast itself, there is always a chance it can happen. It can also cause your remote to stop working.
A system error could cause your remote to stop working or even your entire Chromecast system.
A system error usually needs an update or a reset to be fixed. So, there are only a few options for fixing this issue.
5. Factory Reset Your Remote
Doing a factory reset on your Chromecast remote is simple, and it will be obvious if it works for you.
- Remove the batteries from your remote. There is no need to check them if you have followed the above instructions.
- With the batteries removed, press and hold the home button. Keep holding the button down and put the batteries back in.
- Keep holding the button down while it is solid until the light begins flashing. Once the flashing begins, release the button. This flashing indicates the factory reset worked.
- If your remote did not begin flashing, then try the steps again. You may have to hold the button down for quite a few seconds while it resets.
Once this is done, your remote has been reset and will most likely need to be paired again with your Chromecast.
Sometimes this happens automatically. If it doesn’t work automatically, then see the steps above for pairing your remote to Chromecast.
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BONUS: Reset Your Chromecast
Sometimes if resetting the remote doesn’t work, you have to reset the entire device.
This can help with remote issues as well as technical issues while using the device.
How you reset your Chromecast will depend on the device you are using with it. The method also changes depending on the model that you have.
Check out this website for instructions for every type and model of device that you are using.
The link also shows you how to reset your device without using the remote if you can’t use it.
Keep in mind that after a factory reset, you’ll need to set up your Chromecast device as new.
To do this, make sure your Chromecast is plugged into the TV.
It’ll have you go through the setup process, and you’ll have to pair your remote again.
Go through the process of setting up your preferences and specifications as they were.
During this process, you’ll most likely need to sign into any streaming platforms again. So, make sure you have your passwords ready to go.
Next Steps
After completing all the steps, your remote should be working again.
If it isn’t, then it may be time to consider a new remote or a new Chromecast system.
If you can still use your Chromecast and the only issue is remote, then only replace that.
It’s cheaper to only replace the remote compared to the entire system.
If you would rather replace the entire Chromecast device, then purchase a new one and set it up as described above.
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of possible issues that can cause your Chromecast remote to stop working.
Even if you don’t have the problem diagnosed, try the above steps to see what fixes it for you.
Remember that technology isn’t perfect. The remote disconnecting from your device once or twice isn’t usually indicative of a bigger issue.
However, if the problem persists, it may be time to replace the remote or system altogether.
Do check with a professional to make sure you spend your money wisely.
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