> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://viziosetup.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Pair and Program Your VIZIO TV Remote Control

> Learn how to pair your VIZIO SmartCast Bluetooth remote, program it for a soundbar, and troubleshoot common remote control issues.

VIZIO TVs include one of two remote types: a **standard infrared (IR) remote** or a **SmartCast Bluetooth remote**. IR remotes work instantly without any setup, while SmartCast Bluetooth remotes must be paired to your TV before use. This guide walks you through pairing a SmartCast remote, using a standard IR remote, programming either remote to control a soundbar or AV receiver, and troubleshooting the most common remote issues.

## Pair a SmartCast Bluetooth Remote

<Steps>
  <Step title="Insert Batteries">
    Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote and insert two AA batteries, making sure the polarity (+ and −) matches the markings inside the compartment.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Point at the TV">
    Hold the remote 1–3 feet away from your VIZIO TV. Press and hold the **OK** and **Volume Down** buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to initiate pairing mode.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Wait for Pairing">
    The status LED on the remote will begin flashing, indicating it is broadcasting a Bluetooth pairing signal. A pairing notification will appear on your TV screen.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm Pairing">
    Once the remote has successfully paired, the LED will stop flashing and remain solid briefly before turning off. Test the connection by pressing a few buttons such as the arrow keys or Home button.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Standard IR Remote

Standard IR remotes require **no pairing** — they work automatically as soon as batteries are inserted. Simply open the battery compartment, insert two AA batteries, and point the remote toward the IR sensor located on the front panel of your TV. Because IR remotes communicate via infrared light, a clear line of sight between the remote and the TV sensor is required. Furniture, cabinets, or other obstacles between the remote and the sensor can block the signal and prevent the TV from responding.

## Program Remote for Soundbar / AV Receiver

<Steps>
  <Step title="Enter Programming Mode">
    Press and hold the **TV** button and the **Volume Down** button simultaneously until the remote's LED flashes twice. This indicates the remote has entered programming mode and is ready to accept a device code.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter Device Code">
    Using the number buttons on the remote, enter the **4-digit code** for your soundbar or AV receiver. A full list of compatible device codes is available at [support.vizio.com](https://support.vizio.com). The LED will flash once to confirm the code has been accepted.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Test">
    Press the **Volume Up** and **Volume Down** buttons to verify the remote is now controlling your soundbar or AV receiver. If the volume does not change on your device, repeat the steps above with an alternative code from the support site.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Use SmartCast App as Remote

<Info>
  If your physical remote is lost or not working, download the free **VIZIO SmartCast app** (available for iOS and Android) to control your TV directly from your smartphone. The app replicates all remote functions including input switching, volume, and SmartCast navigation. See the [SmartCast Setup guide](/guides/smartcast-setup) for full pairing instructions.
</Info>

## Troubleshooting

<Accordion title="Remote not responding">
  * Replace the batteries with fresh AA batteries and confirm they are inserted with the correct polarity.
  * Ensure there are no objects blocking the line of sight between the remote and the TV's IR sensor on the front panel.
  * If you are using a SmartCast Bluetooth remote, try re-pairing it by following the pairing steps above.
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Bluetooth remote won't pair">
  Factory reset the remote by pressing and holding the **OK** and **Volume Down** buttons for **10 seconds** until the LED flashes three times. Release the buttons, then attempt the pairing process again from the beginning.
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Remote controls TV but not soundbar">
  The programmed device code may have been lost or entered incorrectly. Re-enter programming mode and try the code again. If the issue persists, visit [support.vizio.com](https://support.vizio.com) to look up alternative codes for your soundbar or AV receiver model.
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Buttons are sticky or unresponsive">
  Dampen a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and gently clean around and beneath the affected buttons. Avoid using excessive liquid and do not submerge the remote. Allow the remote to dry completely before use.
</Accordion>

<Note>
  VIZIO replacement remotes are available at [vizio.com](https://www.vizio.com) or through VIZIO customer support at **1-844-254-8087**.
</Note>