When your DStv remote stops working it’s so frustrating and there are a few reasons why it might happen. One of the common causes is dead or weak batteries. Never worry as I will guide you on what to do if DStv remote is not working at all or like it is supposed to.
Over time the batteries in the remote lose their charge and it stops working properly. Another reason could be a blocked signal between the remote and the decoder.
This happens if something is blocking the sensor on either the remote or the decoder like objects or dirt.
Sometimes the remote stops working because of a technical issue with the decoder itself. If the decoder is not responding to the remote it could be a software glitch or a system problem.
The remote might also stop working if it’s not paired correctly with the decoder especially if the settings have been changed or the remote has been reset.
Sometimes the remote might have internal damage especially if it’s been dropped or exposed to water.
All these can make it difficult to control your DStv service and they are frustrating because you can’t change channels, adjust volume or access other features without the remote.
In this article we’ll look at everything you can do to get your DStv remote working again from checking the batteries to reprogramming your remote.
What to Do if DStv Remote Is Not Working
First let’s look at the common issues that can prevent your DStv remote from working and the solutions to fix them.
1. Check the Batteries in Your DStv Remote
One of the simplest and most common reasons your DStv remote stops working is that the batteries are dead or not inserted properly. When the remote isn’t responding the first thing you should do is check the batteries.
- Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote.
- Remove the batteries and check them for any signs of leakage or corrosion.
- Put in new batteries. Make sure they are inserted correctly with the positive (+) and negative (-) sides facing the right way.
- Test the remote by pressing any button. If it works then dead batteries was the problem.
2. Check the Remote is in the Right Mode
DStv remotes can control multiple devices like the TV, sound system or decoder. If you’re using your remote to control more than one device, make sure it’s in the right mode.
For example if the remote is controlling your TV, it should be in “TV” or “TV 1”. If it’s stuck in the wrong mode it won’t work as expected.
To reset the mode:
- Press the “Back” button for 3 seconds.
- The remote should switch to the correct mode e.g “TV” or “TV 1” (or another device depending on what you want to control).
If you have a second TV or decoder you may need to change the remote’s mode to “TV 2” or “TV 3”. This can be done by pressing the “DStv” button until the red light blinks twice.
3. Re-configure the DStv Remote
Sometimes the issue is not with the batteries or mode but with the programming itself. If the remote is no longer controlling your decoder or TV you may need to re-configure it.
Here’s how to re-configure your DStv remote:
- Press and hold the “DStv” button until the red light under it blinks, then release it.
- Press and release the “TV” button, then enter the code for your TV brand. These codes can be found in the DStv manual or online.
- The red light should blink twice, it’s now programmed to your TV.
- Test the remote to see if it works with your TV.
If you’re using the DStv remote with a decoder, the same applies. You’ll need to programme it to control both the TV and the decoder.
4. Check the Signal from Your DStv Decoder
If the remote is working but you’re not seeing any channels, there’s a problem with the signal between your DStv remote and decoder.
- Check the connection between your decoder and TV to make sure the cables are connected properly.
- Make sure the decoder is on and receiving a signal.
- If your DStv decoder is on standby try switching it off and on again.
- You can also check the signal settings by pressing the “Menu” button on your decoder (if available) to see if there’s an issue with the signal reception.
If these don’t work, there’s an issue with your DStv satellite signal and you may need to contact DStv customer support.
5. Remote Reset
If nothing else works, a reset might be needed. Sometimes your DStv remote can get “stuck” in a mode and stop working. To reset your remote:
- Press and hold the Back and i buttons together for 3 seconds.
- Release and wait for the remote to reset.
- This will clear any programming errors or lock issues that might be causing the remote to not work.
Try the remote again to see if it’s working.
6. DStv Remote Maintenance Tips
Keeping your DStv remote maintained will prevent issues from arising in the future. Here are a few tips:
- Clean the Remote: Dust and dirt can get stuck in the buttons and make them sticky. Wipe the remote with a soft, dry cloth.
- Don’t Drop the Remote: Dropping the remote can cause internal damage, broken buttons or circuitry issues.
- Use the Remote Gently: Don’t press buttons too hard or too often, it will wear out the remote faster.
- Replace Batteries Soon: Replace the batteries when they start to fade, low battery power can cause inconsistent performance.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why your DStv remote may not be working but most of them are fixable.
By following the steps above—check the batteries, reset the remote mode, reprogram the remote, ensure signal connection and maintenance—you’ll have your remote working again.
If not, contact DStv. Now you’re good to go.
