Fixed: Vizio Soundbar Not Turning On

Audio devices like soundbars enhance your viewing or listening experience. However, like any gadget, it sometimes comes with issues. If you encounter any glitches with your Vizio soundbar, do not worry. 

We listed our troubleshooting method for a Vizio soundbar that won’t turn on and a few must-read tips.

Why Won’t My Vizio Soundbar Turn On?

From wrong or defective connections to a deactivated surge protector, there are various reasons why your Vizio soundbar won’t start. 

Vizio 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos Soundbar

But first things first! Check if there is a disconnect between the power cord or the power cable of the Vizio sound bar and the outlet. If you find that the cable is tightly connected to the outlet yet still does not turn on, follow these steps to troubleshoot your device.

How Do I Get My Vizio Soundbar to Turn On: 10 Top Fixes

Fix #1: Check if the Soundbar is Properly Plugged in + Check or Re-connect the Power Cable

Check the power cable or the power cord and ensure it is plugged into the soundbar and the power source. Sometimes household members may have unplugged it accidentally. 

Secure this connection and proceed to switch ON the soundbar again. 

Fix #2: Keep the Remote at a Closer Distance + Remove Any Obstructions

Try to use the remote control closer to 10 feet (3 meters) from the Vizio soundbar. If it is used farther, the Vizio soundbar won’t turn on since it cannot receive the command signals. In effect, it will not turn on when pressing the power button.

Vizio sound bar and remote

Besides distance, obstructions like a TV screen or other objects between the remote and soundbar can also affect its response. Remove items blocking the Vizio sound bar from receiving its command signals. 

Fix #3: Replace the Remote’s Batteries

Check the batteries to see if it still has juice. Here are some steps to help you:

Step 1: Use the nearest mobile phone that has a rear camera and proceed to open the camera app.

Step 2: Point it to the camera. 

Step 3: Press any button on the remote. 

changing battery on a remote

The remote is still functional once red lights are visible on the camera coming from the remote. If there is none, however, the battery is up for replacement. When replacing the batteries, ensure that they are in the correct position. 

Fix #4: Inspect the Remote Control for Damages

Inspect the remote control of the soundbar if it has physical damage. Continuous wear and tear lead to damage and loss of functionality. 

Replace it once damaged, or you may also opt to use or replace it with a universal remote.

Fix #5: Use the Buttons on the Soundbar

Use the buttons of the menu Vizio soundbar. Most Vizio sound bar devices have a power button on the device itself. 

Vizio SB36512-F6B soundbar controls

The power button is on the device’s top or left side. Turn the soundbar ON using the power button to use the device. 

Fix #6: Do a Power Cycle on the Soundbar

Do a power cycle on the device by unplugging the power cord and holding the power button for five (5) seconds. 

Once accomplished, try plugging the power cable and turning ON the sound bar. 

Fix #7: Inspect or Reset the Circuit Breaker

If a power surge recently occurred in your home and the circuit breaker has multiple connected devices sharing the same circuit breaker [1], it may have tripped. 

Go ahead and proceed to check and reset the circuit breaker.

Fix #8: Use Another Power Outlet

Try powering Vizio soundbars to another power outlet or ac outlet since power outlets can become faulty with time.

plug and power outlet

Fix #9: Try Using Another Power Strip or Surge Protector

The power strip and surge protector control the electricity flow into the device. With time, it is prone to short circuits that can lead to the device’s failure. 

It is considered faulty when the LED does not light up, and other devices do not work when plugged into it as well. Try using another power strip in this case. 

Fix #10: Factory Reset

If all else fails, proceed to reset the soundbar by following the steps:

Step 1: Plug the soundbar into a functional outlet.

Step 2: Check the Bluetooth and volume down buttons on the device. 

Step 3: Press and hold the buttons for five (5) seconds.

Vizio soundvar bluetooth and volume down buttons

The reset is successful once the LED lights blink. 

When to Contact Vizio Support

If none of those above steps did work, then it’s time to contact support. Make sure you have with you the Vizio soundbar’s serial information, model number, warranty information, and date of purchase.

Conclusion

There are several steps that you can take if your Vizio soundbar fails to start. Check not only the device but also the settings, cables, and the outlet found in your home. 

We hope these troubleshooting steps can help you the next time you find your Vizio soundbar not turning on.

Writer

Picture of Willie Greer
Willie Greer
Willie Greer is the founder of The Product Analyst. A cinephile, he has made it a personal quest to achieve the awesomest home theater possible. He now shares what he has learned through the years on the site, and has enlisted the help of tech-savvy colleagues in providing more insight about today’s most sought-after gadgets.