Troubleshooting Issues with Your TCL Soundbar Remote

If your TCL soundbar remote isn’t responding or controlling your soundbar as expected, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Whether the remote is unresponsive, only some buttons work, or you’re not sure what’s wrong, follow the steps below to troubleshoot and get things working again.

🔋 Step 1: Check the Batteries

Let’s start with the simplest fix.

Replace the remote’s batteries with a fresh set.

Make sure the batteries are installed correctly, following the + and – symbols inside the compartment.

Avoid mixing old and new batteries.

👉 Even if the remote lights up, weak batteries may not provide enough power to send a proper signal.

📡 Step 2: Make Sure the Remote Is Aiming at the Soundbar

TCL soundbar remotes use infrared (IR) signals, which require a clear line of sight.

Point the remote directly at the front of the soundbar.

Make sure there’s nothing blocking the IR sensor on the soundbar (like furniture or decorations).

Try standing closer to the soundbar when pressing buttons.

📸 Step 3: Test the Remote with Your Phone Camera

Not sure if the remote is working at all? Try this quick test:

Open the camera app on your phone.

Point the remote at the camera lens.

Press and hold any button on the remote.

Look for a flashing light in the camera preview—this means the remote is sending a signal.

✅ Flashing light = remote is working
❌ No flash = remote may be faulty or the batteries are dead

🎛️ Step 4: Try Manual Controls (If Available)

If your soundbar has buttons or a touch panel, try using those to:

Power the soundbar on/off

Change volume

Switch inputs

If the soundbar responds to manual controls but not the remote, it’s likely a remote-specific issue.

🔁 Step 5: Power Cycle the Soundbar

Sometimes the soundbar itself needs a quick reset to reconnect with the remote.

Unplug the soundbar from power.

Wait about 30 seconds.

Plug it back in and turn it on manually (if possible).

Try using the remote again.

🧭 Step 6: Make Sure You're in the Right Input Mode

Some remote functions (like volume) may not work if the soundbar is on an inactive input.
Use the input button on the remote or soundbar to switch to the correct source—like HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, or Optical.