Why isn’t my TiVo remote working?

Your TiVo remote has two modes, which are indicated by the light at the top of the remote when you press a button. Check which mode you're in and consider the following.

No Light

When pressing any button on the TiVo remote, the remote indicator light at the tip of the remote should blink, either amber or red. If the remote indicator light does not blink, you may want to try a new set of batteries in your TiVo remote, and ensure the batteries are inserted correctly.

Red Light: IR Mode

A red light means the remote is in IR mode. With IR mode, you're not paired to a specific receiver, so you have to make sure you're pointing it directly at your TiVo box every time you press a button.

RF mode can be convenient if you're taking your remote with you to another room since you can control any box in the home without changing any settings.

Amber Light: RF Mode

An amber light means the remote is in RF mode. With RF mode you don't have to point the remote at the receiver, but it can only communicate with the TiVo box to which it's paired. If you've recently replaced your TiVo box or remote, you will need to pair them to use RF mode again.

Note: If the remote is already paired to another box, switch it back to IR mode first by pressing and holding the C and TiVo buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds.

To pair your remote, follow these steps.

1. Press the TiVo Central button on your remote.
2. Select Menu.
3. Select Settings.
4. Select Remote, CableCARD & Devices.
5. Select Remote Control Setup.
6. Select Pair your remote with your TiVo box.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing.

Good to know: RF mode consumes more power than IR mode so if you're having trouble with RF mode you should also check the batteries.