Chromecast Remote Not Working FIXED (2023)

The Chromecast is a famous dongle for streaming on various smart TVs or home theatre systems. It supports many streaming apps and is easier to use than other streaming devices. However, some Chromecast users have experienced their Chromecast remote not working.

Fix Chromecast Remote Not Working

Google TV remote not working can be due to device bugs, dead batteries, or outdated software. This guide will show you how to fix your Chromecast remote when it’s unresponsive using effective troubleshooting steps. 

Read on to know more.

 

Table of Contents

How to Fix Chromecast Remote Not Working

The Chromecast remote is essential for controlling your Chromecast dongle. However, if it shows Chromecast remote light pulsing, here are some workarounds to help you fix this issue. Remember to review each fix and check which one is the most effective:

 

Fix #1: Check the Remote’s Batteries

Your Chromecast remote runs using two 1.5 volts, AAA-size batteries. After a while, its batteries may drain and lead to your remote not working. Try replacing them with a new pair and check if it fixes the remote.

You can also try reinserting the batteries into your remote after five minutes and see if it solves the issue.

 

Fix #2: Factory Reset Your Chromecast Remote

Another way to fix the Chromecast remote light pulsing is by factory resetting it. This resets the device to its factory defaults, which might solve the remote problem. However, it effectively deletes all data from the device, so proceed with caution.

To factory reset your Chromecast remote, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the remote’s batteries and wait for five minutes.
  2. Reinsert both batteries while pressing the Home button.
  3. Keep pressing the Home button while the LED indicator is on and stays solid.
  4. Once the light begins to pulse, release the button.
  5. Wait for the remote to pair automatically to your Chromecast dongle and see if it now works normally.

 

Fix #3: Unpair the Remote and Pair It Back to Your Chromecast Dongle

One effective way to fix unresponsive Chromecast remotes is by unpairing them through the Google TV app on your smartphone. It’s also ideal to connect your smartphone to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device to avoid pairing issues.

To unpair your Chromecast remote via the Google TV app on your smartphone, proceed to these steps:

  1. Open your smart TV with the Chromecast device plugged in.
  2. Next, download and install the Google TV app on your smartphone. It’s available on Google Play and the App Store.
  3. Launch the app and tap the Remote icon on the bottom right of the screen.
  4. Select Scanning for devices and choose your Chromecast dongle from the list.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.
  6. Once paired successfully, you can now use your remote to control Chromecast.
  7. Then, go to your account profile from the home screen and select Settings > Remotes & Accessories.
  8. Choose Chromecast Remote and select Forget. Select Yes to confirm.

Once unpaired, wait for your remote to pair back to the Chromecast dongle automatically. If it doesn’t pair, press the Home and Back buttons on the remote for three seconds and check if it pairs both devices. 

If the remote still doesn’t pair to your Chromecast, factory reset your remote again and wait for it to appear on the TV screen. Then, launch the Google TV app on your phone and tap the Select button on the app.

 

Fix #4: Factory Reset Your Chromecast Dongle

If all fixes don’t work, the last thing you can try is factory resetting your Chromecast device. This resets all device settings and configurations, which might help fix bugs. But it will also delete all installed apps, content, and user data stored on your Chromecast.

To factory reset your Chromecast device, do the following:

  1. Turn on your smart TV and ensure your Chromecast device is plugged in.
  2. Press the button at the back of the Chromecast dongle.
  3. Continue holding the button until the LED indicator lights up and blinks yellow.
  4. Once the light turns solid white, release the button. 
  5. Wait for your Chromecast to reset.
  6. Next, factory reset your Chromecast remote using the steps above and set up your device.

 

Final Thoughts

To properly control your Chromecast device, you’ll often use your Chromecast remote. It contains all basic commands and access to some streaming apps. However, you might experience a pulsing light on your Chromecast remote, or some of its commands don’t work.

Hopefully, this guide helps you to fix the Chromecast remote not working issue. If these fixes were ineffective, contact Google Support for more help.