Reset Vizio TV (All Methods)

If you own a Vizio TV, it’s possible to occasionally encounter issues such as app glitches, connectivity problems, or unresponsive screens. When these problems arise, knowing how to reset your Vizio TV can be a lifesaver. Resetting not only resolves technical glitches but also ensures your TV operates at its best performance.

How to Perform a Soft Reset

A soft reset is the quickest and simplest way to refresh your Vizio TV without losing any saved data or settings. This method is particularly useful for resolving minor issues such as frozen screens or unresponsive apps. Below are two approaches to performing a soft reset, depending on whether you have access to the remote.

Soft Reset with Remote

1. Turn Off the TV: Use your remote to switch off the TV.
2. Unplug from Power: Disconnect the TV’s power cable from the wall outlet.
3. Wait for 10 Seconds: Allow the TV to remain unplugged for about 10 seconds.
4. Reconnect Power: Plug the power cable back into the outlet.
5. Turn On the TV: Use your remote to turn the TV back on.

Soft Reset Without Remote

1. Locate Physical Buttons: Find the power button on your Vizio TV, typically located on the back or side of the device.
2. Turn Off the TV: Press and hold the power button to turn off the TV.
3. Unplug from Power: Remove the power cable from the outlet.
4. Hold Power Button: While unplugged, press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds to drain residual power.
5. Reconnect Power: Plug the cable back into the outlet.
6. Turn On the TV: Press the power button again to switch on your TV.

How to Perform a Factory Reset: With Remote

1. Press the “Menu” or gear icon button on your Vizio remote to open the main menu.
2. Use the arrow keys to highlight “System” and press “OK.”

3. Scroll down to “Reset & Admin” and press “OK.”

4. Highlight “Reset TV to Factory Defaults” and press “OK.“
5. If prompted, enter your parental control PIN. The default code is usually 0000 unless it has been changed.
6. Select “Yes” when asked for confirmation. The reset process will begin, and your TV will restart, displaying the initial setup screen once complete.

How to Perform a Factory Reset: Without Remote

If you’ve misplaced your remote or it’s no longer functioning, don’t worry. Resetting your Vizio TV to factory settings is still possible using the physical buttons on the TV. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Press the power button located on the back or side of your Vizio TV to switch it on.
2. Locate Buttons: Identify the Volume Down and Input buttons on the TV. These are typically found on the back, side, or bottom of the unit.
3. Simultaneously press and hold the Volume Down and Input buttons for about 10–15 seconds.
4. A message will appear on the screen asking if you want to reset the TV. Release both buttons.

5. Press and hold the Input button again for 10 seconds to confirm the reset process.
6. The TV will restart automatically, erasing all data, preferences, and settings. This process may take a minute or two.

Important Tips For Resetting Your Vizio TV

1. Backup Your Settings

Before performing a factory reset, consider documenting or backing up your TV’s settings, such as display configurations, audio preferences, and app logins. This will make it easier to restore your preferred setup after the reset.

2. Use Proper Timing

When performing a soft reset or power cycling, wait for at least 10–30 minutes after unplugging the TV to ensure all residual power is drained from the capacitors. This step can significantly improve the effectiveness of the reset.

3. Verify Connections

After resetting, check all cable connections (HDMI, power cords, etc.) to ensure they are securely plugged in. Loose cables can cause issues that may appear unrelated to the reset process.

4. Keep Your TV Powered On

During a factory reset, avoid turning off the TV or unplugging it until the process is fully completed. Interrupting the reset can corrupt files or settings, leading to additional problems.

5. Perform Multiple Cycles if Necessary

If a soft reset doesn’t resolve the issue on the first attempt, try repeating the process and extending the waiting time between steps. For example, wait 30 minutes instead of 10 seconds before reconnecting power.

6. Reconfigure Post-Reset Settings

After completing a factory reset, take time to reconfigure your TV’s settings during the initial setup screen. This includes selecting language preferences, reconnecting to Wi-Fi, and logging into apps like Netflix or Hulu.

8. Troubleshoot Persistent Issues

If resetting doesn’t resolve your problem (e.g., black screens or freezing), explore additional troubleshooting options such as checking for firmware updates or contacting Vizio support for assistance.