Do you have a Wii remote that won’t turn on, or your Wii remote is not working as it’s supposed to? Don’t worry, we are going to show you some steps you can take to check your hardware configuration. At the end of the day, you will be able to clean the remote and reset the remote control settings.
The Nintendo Wii gaming system was released in 2006. It is a system that requires remote controls to navigate the system’s menus, control the hardware and play your games. If you have had your Wii remote for a long time, it may not be functioning the way it ought to function anymore. To this end, if you want to fix it, we can show you the steps to achieve that. However, if you want additional help or you need to order a replacement Wii Remote, you can contact Nintendo’s customer service department at (800) 255-3700.
How to Fix a Wii Remote that is Not Working
If you notice your remote is not turning on or does not respond, you can do this:
- Try holding the Wii Remote upside-down with the buttons facing downward.
- Click the remote firmly against the palm of your hand three times. This is to remove any dust sitting between the buttons and the electronic circuit board inside the remote.
- Turn the remote upright and press one of the buttons.
- If the problem persists, you may proceed to check the hardware configuration.
Checking the Hardware Configuration – How to Troubleshoot Wii Remotes That Are Not Working
If the first option fails, you can check the hardware configuration. To do this:
- Start by opening your Wii Remote’s battery door.
- You have to check if your Wii Remote contains two new “AA” batteries or a charged battery pack.
- You will also have to check that no corrosion is present on the battery’s metal elements/connectors.
- If you spot any corrosion, use a cotton swab in cleaning the remote’s battery element/connectors.
- You may also have to check the Wii wireless sensor bar. This is to ensure it’s properly connected and placed.
- Start by checking that the Sensor Bar cable is inserted firmly into the back of your Wii gaming system.
- Note, the Sensor Bar also needs to be centered above or below your television. This is so that the Wii Remote can transmit signals to the gaming system.
- In testing the sensor bar, you are to stand three feet away from the Wii gaming system/Sensor Bar. Aim the remote and press any button to test the device.
- If the remote is not working, stand five to ten feet away from the gaming system and try the device again.
- Move any objects that is blocking the signal from the remote to the gaming system/Sensor bar-candles, other remote controls (TV cable box) and wireless computer devices/cellular phones.
- You also have to close the curtains or blinds if any sunlight is coming in through a window. This will keep the light from interfering with the remote’s signal.
Resetting Wii Remote Controls How to Troubleshoot Wii Remotes That Are Not Working
You also have the option of resetting your Wii’s remote control. To do this:
- Start by turning off and unplug your Wii gaming system.
- Leave the unit unplugged for one minute and then plug the gaming system back in.
- Turn the Wii system on
- Click and hold the red “SYNC” button for 15 seconds. The “Health and Safety” screen will pop up on your television.
- The “SYNC” button is behind the small door on the front of your Wii unit.
- Then release the “SYNC” button.
- Remove the battery cover and batteries/battery pack from the back of your Wii Remote.
- Click and release the red button located under the battery compartment.
- The blue lights on the front of the remote will blink.
- Press and release the “SYNC” button on the front of your Wii gaming system.
- The “Player” light on the gaming system will stop blinking and stay on.
With these, the resetting process is complete. You will need to repeat these steps for each additional Wii Remote.