If you're experiencing issues with your Xfinity remote where it won't change channels but the volume buttons work, you're not alone. This is a common problem that we've seen many people have to figure out. These remotes just seem to be finicky when it comes to some buttons, especially when the device is older or running low on power. So what do you do to fix it?
If your Xfinity remote won't change channels, try replacing batteries, using the correct remote, restarting your TV, or resetting your remote. If these fail, consider signal interference or physical damage. If replacement is needed, opt for a universal remote to control more devices with ease.
Understanding the issue is the first step in fixing it, so we'll start with the things you should try immediately before explaining a bit more about why this problem can happen and how to prevent it in the future. And stick around for the conversation on replacement remotes and our recommendation for a universal remote that is a better option for most home theaters than simply replacing the stock Xfinity remote (if you're can't be fixed). Let's get started!
👉 Related reading: How To Change Xfinity Modem with Your Own?
4 Fixes For An Xfinity Remote That Won't Change Channels
If your Xfinity remote (example on Amazon) won't change channels, but the volume works, there are a few things you can try to fix it. Here are the 4 most common causes for this issue and how to quickly fix them, and after this we'll explain them in more detail. Hopefully, though, you can quickly use this list to try these options and get back up and running!
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Dead batteries | Replace the batteries with new ones. |
| Incorrect remote | Make sure you're using the correct remote for your Xfinity device (check model numbers and brand logos on the remote). |
| TV issue | Restart your TV manually (power button or pulling the plug) and try again. |
| General remote issue | Reset your Xfinity remote, following one of two reset paths based on the specific variant of the remote (see the section below). |
And as you dive in, keep an eye out for other needs you may have with these remotes. See our relted guides on pairing your Xfinity remote, reprogramming it, and what to do if those volume buttons start acting up instead of the channel buttons! Let's dive into these quick fixes more now, though:
Replace Batteries
If your Xfinity remote won't change channels, the first thing you should check is the batteries. Dead batteries can cause the remote to stop working properly.
Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote and replace the batteries with new ones. Make sure to use the correct type of batteries, and use new ones to make sure that the batteries you put in have a full charge. If you're wondering, yes, the batteries should both match!
Check The Remote – Make Sure It's The Correct Remote
If you have multiple Xfinity devices in your home, make sure you're using the correct remote for the device you're trying to control. Using the wrong remote can cause the remote to not work properly.
Check the model number on the remote and make sure it matches the device you're trying to control. And look at the brand logo on the remote too. I know it's embarrassing how many times I've simply grabbed the Sony or Equinox remote sitting right next to the one for the TV, especially when I typically use a universal remote (more on that below) so I'm not super familiar with the individual device controls in general.
Restart Your TV Manually And Try Again
Sometimes, the issue is not with the remote, but with the TV. If your Xfinity remote won't change channels, try restarting your TV manually. Unplug the TV from the power source, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in.
Turn on the TV and try changing the channels with your Xfinity remote again. This is probably best paired with at least a battery removal on the remote, to restart it as well.
Resetting Your Xfinity Remote
Whether you have an Xfinity Voice Remote with a setup button (XR11) or without one (XR15), resetting it to factory settings is straightforward.
For XR11:
- Press the ‘Setup' button until the LED at the top changes from red to green.
- Enter the code ‘9-8-1'.
- The LED will blink green twice, signifying a successful reset.
For XR15:
- Simultaneously hold the ‘A' (triangle) and ‘D' (diamond) buttons for three seconds until the status light changes from red to green.
- Enter the code ‘9-8-1'.
- The LED will blink blue three times, indicating a successful reset.
And do note, a factory reset will unpair your remote and TV Box. You'll need to reactivate your TV Box and re-pair the two devices following the instructions provided with your Xfinity remote and TV Box. And if you happen to be using the rarer “XRA Large button Voice Remote” variant, check out the detailed instructions on resetting those here.
What Causes This Glitch (+ More Advanced Troubleshooting)
When we encounter a situation where the volume buttons work on the Xfinity remote, but the channels won't change, it can get frustrating quickly if none of the quick fixes above worked. So, we'll now turn to some more obscure causes of this issue and how to address them.
One more advanced cause of this issue is bad connectivity between the remote and the TV box or TV. This can happen due to a weak signal or interference. To resolve this, we can try performing a factory reset or re-pairing the devices. If this doesn't work, we may need to replace the batteries in the remote. If the problem started just after you installed another device in your home theater, consider if you've introduced new interference to the area that could interfere with remote signals.
Another potential cause of the issue is physical damage to the remote. Sometimes the buttons can get stuck or the circuitry inside can be damaged if something spills on it. In this case, we may need to replace the remote entirely. We'll turn our attention to that in the next section.
It's also possible that the issue is with the TV box itself. We can try resetting the TV box by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in. If this doesn't work, youmay need to contact Xfinity customer support for further assistance.
Replacement Remotes: Consider A Universal Option
So, maybe you just need to replace the thing. While replacing your Xfinity remote with an identical one is a straightforward solution, it may not always be the best option. Instead, we recommend considering a universal remote for your home theater needs.
A universal remote such as the Philips 6-Device Universal Remote (on Amazon) can control up to six devices, including your Xfinity box, TV, sound system, and more. This means you can simplify your entertainment system and control everything with one remote.
Not only is a universal remote more convenient, but it can also be more cost-effective in the long run. Rather than maintaining separate remotes for each device, you can invest in one universal remote that can control them all. Only one remote needs your attention…and batteries!
While there are many universal remote options available, we recommend the Philips 6-Device Universal Remote for its ease of use and compatibility with a wide range of devices. And at a very low cost!
Channeling Success: Fixing The XFinity Channel Button Problem Once And For All
So, now you know addressing the issue with your Xfinity remote refusing to change channels isn't an insurmountable task. (Especially if you're willing to simply buy your way out of the problem with a new universal remote!)
These troubleshooting techniques, coupled with an understanding of the problem, will empower you to tackle similar issues in the future. You're not just ‘changing channels' on your current troubles, you're setting the stage for a hassle-free future of long-term enjoyment in your home theater. It's worth the time to understand the problem and get all the details right!
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