How to Find a Replacement Remote Control

By eHow Electronics Editor

Rate: (5 Ratings)

Channel surfing just isn't the same if you have to, ugh, actually get off the couch to switch stations. How archaic. Yet you've long ago lost your circa-1975 TV remote and have no clue where to turn for a replacement. Fear not: Though it's more complicated to find a replacement for an older remote, it can be done.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Copy down your television's or VCR's model number, which is printed in your user's manual (have you lost that too?) and on the front or back of the TV or VCR.
Step2
Visit the Web site of the manufacturer (i.e. Zenith, Sony) and read the frequently asked questions (FAQ), or find the section on remote control help. Yes, the popularity of this question has led to it having its own section on many Web sites. The manufacturer's site usually provides the procedure for replacing a lost or broken remote.
Step3
E-mail or call the manufacturer if you cannot find an answer on the Web. Phone numbers and e-mail addresses for customer service are always provided on Web sites.
Step4
Provide the manufacturer with the TV or VCR model number and ask whether that model has been discontinued, which is common with older models.
Step5
Ask whether the manufacturer still has remote controls available for this model. Many times, one style of remote was used for several models and for several years. Order a new remote, if possible.
Step6
Request the model number of your desired remote control if the manufacturer has none available.
Step7
Enter the model number into a search engine, such as Google or MSN, and see what pops up. The search may lead to an independent seller, for example.
Step8
Do a search on eBay to see if someone is auctioning off your specific remote control.

Tips & Warnings

  • Most often, a universal remote will nullify the need for a replacement. These programmable super-remotes will mimic the signal needed to operate your TV or VCR. Instructions provided with these remotes will tell which makes of TVs and VCRs the signal will imitate.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 I recently had to replace a remote and was told of this service. They have or can get just about any remote and, as a bonus, can also replace any product manual - pretty handy for those of us who tend to misplace those things!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Go back to the store where you bought the TV/VCR or try one of the large chains. While they may not have the remote, they may have a contact at the manufacturer of your TV. Better yet, they may have extra remotes available!

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 It only took me 3 garage sales to find my replacement remote, proving my theory that there are at least 5 remotes for every TV viewer in the world! Check in the freebie box or ask the host. Chances are they just threw one out while organizing their sale.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 It is much simpler to get a universal remote than to find the exact model that you lost. These remotes may not have all the functionality of your old remote, but they are VERY handy.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 If you have an irresponsible person in your household (that wouldn't be you or me, of course), then try to find a remote control with a beeper - like the ones for lost phones. One of these can save a lot of time and frustration.

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eHow Article:  How to Find a Replacement Remote Control

eHow Electronics Editor

eHow Electronics Editor

Category: Electronics

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