In this guide, we will provide solutions if your Firestick remote is not working. General problems include difficulty pairing the remote with the device, and issues with volume, buttons, lights, the mic, battery, and more. If you’re encountering any of these problems, you’re in the right place. We have listed all possible causes for a malfunctioning Firestick remote.
Firestick remotes are different from other household remotes, making it challenging to determine why the Firestick remote suddenly stopped working. So, read this entire article to fix your issue by following the steps mentioned in this guide.
There are many reasons why a Firestick remote may stop working. Common issues include pairing problems, device compatibility issues, and sound problems. In addition, I have provided a list of the most common causes for a Firestick remote that suddenly stops working. Follow the guidelines below to address each issue step-by-step. If the problem persists, you can factory reset your Firestick.
Distance and Obstruction
The distance might be the cause of the Amazon Firestick remote not working properly. While this isn’t a major issue, it’s often overlooked. As a minor concern, it is easily missed, leading people to jump to more advanced troubleshooting steps. So, It’s important to ensure that the distance between the Amazon Firestick remote and the device is minimal.
Firestick remotes use Bluetooth, not infrared (IR), to connect to the device. This means you don’t need a direct line of sight, just ensure the distance is within range. However, obstructions between the Firestick and the remote can reduce the range.
Follow these tips to determine if distance or obstruction is the issue:
- Remove any obstructions.
- If the Firestick device is stored in an entertainment center, take it out to check if the remote works.
- If the remote only works when you’re near the TV, consider using an extended dongle to reposition the device.
Battery Problem
This is a common issue for Amazon Fire TV Stick remote users. Often, the remote stops working due to battery problems. Here are the reasons for these battery issues:
- Connector Cleaning: Insert the battery after cleaning its connectors with a dry cloth. This simple step might get your Fire Stick remote working again.
- Proper Insertion: Ensure the battery is inserted correctly. Each battery has a ‘+’ and ‘-‘ side, so check the ports before inserting. The ‘+’ port should connect to the ‘+’ side of the battery. Incorrect insertion will prevent the remote from working.
- Battery Quality: Use high-quality, alkaline batteries from a reputable producer. These batteries ensure your Fire Stick remote is reliable and has long-lasting performance.
- Battery Charge: Check if the battery is charged. An uncharged battery will prevent the remote from working.
- Battery Usage: Use the remote battery correctly for optimal performance.
Note: Fire Stick remotes consume more power compared to other remotes. If you spend a lot of time streaming media, opt for better-quality batteries for your Amazon Firestick remote.
If the problem persists, the battery might not be the issue. In that case, try other troubleshooting methods to fix the problem.
Whether Remote Connected?
When you buy a new Firestick device with an included remote, it comes pre-paired with your device, so you don’t need to set it up again. However, if it’s not paired, or if you replace your Firestick remote, you’ll need to pair it manually. If the remote becomes unpaired due to network or system issues, it won’t work. Don’t worry; follow these steps to pair a remote to a Firestick device:
- Plug your Firestick into the TV’s High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port.
- Ensure both the Firestick and the TV are on.
- Wait for the Firestick to boot up.
- Press and hold the Home button on your Firestick remote for at least 10 seconds.
- Release the button and check if the remote is working properly.
- If the remote still doesn’t work, hold down the Home button again for 15-20 seconds. Sometimes, it may take several attempts for this process to work.
Note: A Firestick can connect with up to seven Bluetooth devices, including a remote controller. If it’s already connected to seven devices, you won’t be able to connect anymore. To connect a new device, you must first disconnect at least one of the currently connected devices.
To disconnect an already connected device, follow these steps:
- Go to the Firestick Home screen and choose Settings.
- Click on Controllers & Bluetooth Devices. A new window will open, showing a list of all devices connected to the Firestick.
- Click on the device you want to unpair.
Please note that sometimes it takes time to pair with the Firestick. Try at least 3 to 4 times. If pairing is the reason for the Firestick remote not working, the above steps should help resolve the issue. If not, try the next resolution.
Compatibility
If you have purchased a new Firestick device, this step is not for you. This step is for users who have purchased a replacement remote for an existing Firestick device. First, ensure the remote is compatible with your device. If the remote is not working and there is a pairing issue, you need to check if the remote you have purchased is compatible with your specific Firestick model. There are many generations of Firestick, Firestick 4K, Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, and Fire TV remotes, and each works differently. The remote must be compatible with the device you are using.
Additionally, verify the seller’s authenticity. There are many inferior duplicates of the remote with similar designs. These remotes look like the original ones but do not perform well.
Amazon maintains a list of remotes and devices, which can help you confirm that the remote and device are compatible and can operate together effectively.
Check Remote
If you have tried all the steps and the remote is still not working, it might be time to accept that the remote is damaged. The damage could be due to various reasons, such as a drained battery, dust accumulation, or internal damage from being dropped.
In this case, your only option is to buy a replacement remote for your Firestick. Fortunately, replacement remotes are affordable and can be purchased on Amazon for $8-$12. There are many options available, but make sure to check the reviews and ratings, aiming for a rating of 4 or higher.
In the meantime, you can use your Android or iPhone as a remote for your Firestick device. To do this, install the Firestick remote application from the Google Play Store or Apple Store. The app is completely free to download and use.
The Firestick remote app offers the Alexa Voice control button. If you decide to install the remote app, you’ll need to pair it with your Firestick device. Follow these steps:
- Turn on your Firestick device and let it boot up.
- Download and install the Firestick remote app on your phone, then launch the app.
- Sign in to the Amazon Firestick remote app.
- Select your Firestick device from the list.
- Wait for a four-digit code to appear on your TV screen, then enter this code in the app.
- That’s it! Your app and Firestick device are now paired. Enjoy streaming!
Wrap up
I have explained all the possible causes for which the Firestick remote can stop working. If you encounter any other issues, please let us know through the comment section below. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.