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Hard reset any VIZIO TV with this user-friendly guide
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If your VIZIO TV isn't working properly, you can factory reset it from the menu. This will erase all settings and preferences. If the TV has a black screen, or if you don't have the remote, you can try power cycling it to fix it. Here's how to factory reset your VIZIO SmartCast TV, VIA, or VIA HDTV with expert tips from TV Installation expert Jocotra Cathey.

Quick Steps

  1. Press the MENU button.
  2. Select Admin & Privacy .
  3. Select Reset to Factory Settings .
  4. Enter the PIN (if prompted).
  5. Select Reset .
  6. Select OK .
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Resetting SmartCast TVs

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  1. You can also press the button with the cog.
  2. On some devices, you may need to select System or All Settings before seeing this option.
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  3. Keep in mind that factory resetting your TV will erase all of your settings and preferences. [1]
  4. If you don't see this requirement, skip to the next step.
    • If you don't remember adding a pin, try the default PIN code: 0000.
  5. This will confirm the decision to reset your TV.
    • Your TV will power off and turn back on automatically. It will be ready to set up again.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Resetting Older TVs

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  1. This will open your TV's settings.
    • If your TV has a black screen or if you don't have a remote, see the power cycling section first.
  2. On VIA Plus TVs, this may look like System . [2]
  3. This may also look like Reset and Admin .
  4. This may also look like Clear Memory/Factory Defaults .
  5. If you don't remember adding a pin, try the default PIN code: 0000.
    • Your TV will power off and turn back on automatically. It will be ready to set up again.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Power Cycling the TV

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  1. Use this method if your TV has a black screen or if you don't have the remote .
    • If you have a remote and it isn't working, Cathey advises to make sure the batteries "have a good connection and that you don't see any corrosion or the little white powder." If you see this, you'll need to use a new set of batteries.
    • Power cycling your TV can reset it and get it back on again. Once it's on, you can factory reset it using the methods above.
  2. This includes any HDMI cables, soundbars , streaming sticks , or Ethernet.
  3. If it's plugged into a power strip, unplug that as well.
  4. This button is either on the front corner of the TV or on the back.
    • Holding it down can help drain any residual power.
  5. This will make sure all the power has drained out.
  6. Try turning the TV on again. If it works, you can now factory reset using the methods above. If it doesn't, repeat as needed.
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