How to Find a Replacement Remote Control

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.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Universal Remote Control

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Provide the manufacturer with the TV or VCR model number and ask whether that model has been discontinued, which is common with older models.

5. 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.

6. Request the model number of your desired remote control if the manufacturer has none available.

7. 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.

8. 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.

on 4/1/2006 There are online sellers that have stores that sell remotes, electronics manuals, and any of the other little accessories that you might be missing.

My five year old remote finally died. I didn't think I would be able to find a new one anywhere, but I just typed in the model number and I was able to find 10 that were currently on sale at eBay.

on 11/22/2005 It saves a lot of time and money, so buying a remote through one of those online stores makes a lot of sense. They are cheaper and have huge catalogs which no conventional store can match. Search for replacement remote controls on Google.

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!

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!

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.