Comcast DVR Problems

If you're experiencing issues with your Comcast or Xfinity DVR, know that they are not uncommon and there are a number of steps you can take to fix the problem. This ranges from rebooting the set-top box to checking for a current service outage. If all else fails, a call to Comcast for a replacement DVR might be in order, but consider that a last resort.

If you scheduled shows or movies for recording on your Comcast DVR and find that they are not being recorded, you may need to reboot your set-top box. This also fixes the error code "XRE-00008 - GUIDE_DVR_RECORDING_FAILURE." If you are in a home with multiple TVs connected to Comcast using an Xfinity AnyRoom DVR, find the primary set-top box and reboot that one. The primary box is what hosts the DVR service throughout the household. To reboot, press and hold the Power button in the front for 10 seconds or simply unplug the power cord in the back for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. The TV that the box is connected to should show the Xfinity logo and indicate that a reboot is taking place. This could take up to a few minutes to complete and interrupts any shows currently recording.

If your Xfinity service indicates that your DVR storage is full, the easiest solution is to permanently delete recordings you no longer need. Using your remote, select Saved after pressing the Menu button. Then head to Recordings and choose Recently Deleted. For each program you want to delete, use the arrow keys on the remote control to highlight and then select Delete Now. These recordings aren't available for recovery after being permanently deleted.

If your DVR has been temporarily inoperable, an Xfinity service outage may be responsible. To check if your area is experiencing an outage, visit Comcast's website and click Sign In. After logging in with your account credentials, your account page should alert you right away if you are, in fact, in the middle of a service outage. You can also check the status of your Xfinity service using the free Xfinity My Account app for iPhone or Android, which also displays outage notifications immediately after logging in.

Xfinity DVRs reboot every evening for maintenance and to install updates, so this frequently means DVR problems eventually get around to fixing themselves.

However, if the problem persists, you may need to have your faulty DVR replaced. Contact Comcast customer support by calling 1-800-934-6489 to set up a tech visit or equipment exchange. It's also worth inquiring about reformatting your DVR, which resets the DVR and erases all recordings. The set of instructions to do so are unique to different DVR models.