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Troubleshooting

Roku remote power or volume buttons not controlling the TV

A Roku remote can navigate the Roku player while its separate TV power and volume controls fail. These buttons depend on the remote model and the TV-control setup; Roku says some TVs support volume but not power. Re-run the TV control setup with the Roku player connected directly to the TV, then check whether the remote is using infrared or HDMI-CEC.

Published by TV Remotely · Source checked 2026-10-29. Model and firmware behavior can differ; device tests are named only where performed.

Run TV control setup again

Roku’s setup plays test sounds so the player can identify TV control codes. Make sure the TV is not muted and can be heard during the test.

  1. Go to Settings > Remotes & devices > Remotes, select your voice remote, and choose Set up remote for TV control.

    This repeats the documented power and volume setup.

    If that does not help: If the sound test is silent, raise TV volume using the original remote and check mute.

  2. Temporarily connect the Roku player directly to the TV during setup.

    Roku recommends removing a soundbar or receiver from the path while detecting the TV brand.

    If that does not help: After setup, reconnect equipment and test each control again.

  3. If prompted, confirm the correct TV brand and continue through the sound test.

    A mismatched TV brand or skipped code can leave some controls unavailable.

    If that does not help: Some TV models support only volume, not power; verify the limitation before repeating setup.

Check line of sight and CEC behavior

Infrared needs the remote aimed at the TV with a clear path. Roku’s troubleshooting page explains that HDMI-CEC does not require aiming but depends on TV support and CEC being enabled.

  1. Point the remote at the TV and test volume; then briefly cover its front and repeat.

    If the control stops when covered, that button is likely using infrared.

    If that does not help: Remove obstructions and aim at the TV’s IR receiver.

  2. For a supported CEC setup, enable CEC on the TV, then add or set up the Roku remote again.

    CEC feature names vary by TV maker, and some TVs support CEC power but not volume.

    If that does not help: Consult the TV manual for its CEC name and capabilities.

  3. If voice power/volume commands fail while buttons work, check CEC specifically.

    Roku says voice commands for TV power and volume use CEC, not the remote’s IR path.

    If that does not help: Do not infer voice support from working physical buttons.

When the TV controls cannot be added

If Roku navigation works but TV power/volume do not after setup, check the remote model’s TV-control capability and the TV’s documented support.

What to do next

Run Roku TV-control setup for each button and keep the TV/player distinction clear; navigation does not guarantee IR power or volume.

Sources and verification

Frequently asked questions

Why does my Roku remote navigate but not change TV volume?
The remote may be paired to Roku but not configured for TV controls, may need line of sight, or may not support that TV model.
Can one Roku remote control both TV volume and power?
Some can, but Roku says certain TVs support volume without power.
Why do buttons work but voice commands do not?
Roku says voice commands for TV power and volume use CEC. Physical buttons may work through infrared instead.