How do I fix a new Samsung TV remote that will not turn the TV on?
Answer
A new Samsung remote usually has to be paired with the TV before it can turn the TV on. Start by pressing the TV's own power button, then reset and pair the remote using Samsung's steps for your model.
Follow these steps
Turn the TV on with its own power button
Press the TV's physical power button, usually on the lower right side or bottom centre of the TV, and wait until the screen lights up. Samsung's remote reset guide says this helps the TV detect the remote before you pair it.
You should see: The TV turns on and shows its screen or start-up logo before you try the remote.
Reset the remote
Hold the Enter button in the centre of the navigation pad and the Return button together for 10 seconds. Samsung's guide says this basic reset should keep the remote's Bluetooth pairing. If the remote still does not respond, the guide describes a factory reset: hold Return and the button above and to the right of Enter for 3 seconds. A factory reset clears the pairing, so you must pair the remote again afterward. Button names can vary by model.
You should see: The reset finishes without an error. If the remote was factory reset, it will need to be paired in the next step.
Pair the remote with the TV
Stand within about 1 foot (30 cm) of the TV and point the remote at the TV's remote sensor. Hold Return and Play/Pause together for at least 3 seconds. Samsung's pairing guide says to wait while the TV syncs with the remote. Some guides say to hold the buttons for 5 seconds instead, so try a longer hold if the shorter one does nothing.
You should see: A message appears on the TV screen saying the remote is connected.
If pairing fails, power-cycle the TV and try again
Unplug the TV from the wall for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on with its own power button. Repeat the pairing step from about 1 foot away. Samsung's remote troubleshooting page describes this unplug step.
You should see: The pairing message appears, or the remote turns the TV on and changes channels or volume.
Decide whether the remote or the TV is at fault
Use the TV's own power button and watch whether the TV turns on and responds normally. If the TV works with its own button but the new remote still does nothing after pairing, the remote is the more likely cause. If the TV does not respond to its own power button either, the problem is more likely the TV, and it may need service.
You should see: You know whether the remote or the TV is the likely cause, and you can say which one when you contact support.
Contact Samsung support if nothing else works
If pairing still fails after the steps above, contact Samsung support through the support page on samsung.com or the official Samsung Support app. Use the number or chat listed there, not a number or link from an unexpected message. Give the TV's model number and say that the remote will not pair or turn the TV on.
You should see: Samsung support confirms whether the remote should be replaced, the TV needs service, or another fix applies to your model.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether the TV turns on with its own power button, whether the remote's light blinks when you press a button, and whether a pairing message appears on the TV screen.
Before you change anything: Find the TV's model number on the label on the back of the TV, or on the One Connect box if your TV has one. Put in fresh batteries of the correct type before you start. Keep the remote's box or receipt in case it needs to be returned or replaced.
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