Why Does My Vizio TV Keep Changing Input? (Find Out Why!)
In today’s world, there are so many different devices to plug into your Vizio TV. Many people have an Xbox or PlayStation they use via an HDMI port. So, how do you stop your Vizio TV from constantly changing inputs?
A Vizio TV may change input because ‘Auto Detect’ is on, it needs resetting, or the HDMI port is clogged. Ensure that any connected external device has compatible software and replace the HDMI cords every 5 years. Consult a professional if you suspect there is external damage to your Vizio television.
Continue reading to learn why your Vizio TV keeps changing input and how to troubleshoot each issue!
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Why Does My Vizio TV Keep Changing Input?
If there are more than two HDMI ports on your TV, it may be searching for an input with a connection.
Here are some other common reasons your Vizio TV keeps changing input:
- The device hooked up to an HDMI port is incompatible.
- The ‘Auto Detect’ setting is on.
- Your television needs to be reset.
- Your HDMI cord needs to be replaced.
- Your HDMI port may be dirty/clogged.
- There is external damage to the TV.Â
Vizio TVs are some of the best for providing high performance and picture quality at an affordable price; however, that doesn’t make them immune to trouble.
If any of these above reasons sound like your issue, we’ll go over how to solve them below!
Reason #1: The Device Hooked Up to an HDMI Port Is Incompatible
Check the HDMI cable and make sure that it’s connected to both the port on your TV and the external device correctly. If you’re not sure how to do this, consult Vizio’s user guide for help.
The device you are trying to connect to your television may be incompatible. Older Xbox and PlayStation units will not work with newer Vizio TVs simply because the software on your TV does not support the outdated software on an old gadget.
This will cause your television to swap inputs.
The Fix?
- First, unplug the HDMI cables from your TV and the device, wait 30 seconds, and reconnect them.
- Next, if your TV is new, but the device you’re using is old- try updating the software on that particular device. If that doesn’t work, you may need a new piece of equipment to function on the level of your television.
- If your TV is old- update the software to the most recent version. You can check for a new software version under System > Check for Updates. However, if this doesn’t provide a solution, it may be time for a new TV. New Vizio TVs cost around $300 depending on the dimensions.
- Also, unplug HDMI cables from your TV and reconnect them.
- Lastly, this may sound obvious, but make sure nothing is sitting on your remote, perhaps pressing on the ‘Input’ button. You’d be surprised!
Reason #2: The ‘Auto Detect’ Setting Is On
Sometimes the reason a Vizio TV keeps changing input is because the ‘Auto Detect’ sensing feature is on.
‘Auto Detect’ causes the TV to automatically change the input if it detects a stronger signal from another port. This can be annoying, especially if you have multiple devices plugged into different HDMI ports. Unfortunately, if there are loose cords, your TV gravitates towards the most secure connection.
Wireless electronics can also trigger this. Many people face this problem when they use certain wireless keyboards with their TVs that cause some sort of interference.
The Fix?
- Press the ‘Input’ button and switch inputs manually to override ‘Auto Detect.’
- Check all of the HDMI cords behind your TV- make sure they are securely plugged into your television and hooked up correctly to each external electronic device.
Reason #3: Your Television Needs to Be Reset
One of the most common reasons a Vizio TV keeps changing inputs is that it needs a software reset.
You can perform two different resets to solve this- a soft reset or a factory reset.
Start with the soft reset and proceed to the factory reset if you’re initially unsuccessful.
The Fix?
- To do a soft reset, just turn your TV off and unplug it from the wall. Wait 60 seconds before plugging it back in and powering it back on. This typically fixes 95% of technical difficulties.
- If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to perform a factory reset. To do that:
- Step 1: Go to the Tv’s ‘ Menu.’
- Step 2: Then click ‘System.’
- Step 3: Select ‘Reset & Admin.’
- Step 4: Scroll down and click ‘Reset to Factory Defaults.’
- Step 5: Enter the password for your television (it is usually 4-digits).
- Step 6: Click ‘Reset.’
- Step 7: Your TV will automatically power back on when the reset is complete. It could take up to 20 minutes for the system to reboot fully.
Note: Any saved login information (for example, on Roku apps) is typically deleted during a factory reset. Have that information handy before doing the reset.
If none of these steps worked for you, there might be an issue with the remote or batteries. Try swapping out the batteries or using your phone as the remote so you can attempt to reset the TV again.
Reason #4: Your HDMI Cord Needs to Be Replaced
If your Vizio TV keeps changing input, it’s possible that your HDMI cord is worn and needs to be replaced.
It’s pretty standard for cables to go bad after several years. It’s even possible for termites or rodents (ICK!) to chew through them without you realizing it. Usually, HDMI cords only last around 7 years. Keep them longer, and your TV may suffer from signal degradation.
It’s also important to consider that if the cord gets bent frequently, this can cause damage and reduce its lifespan. Make sure your cables aren’t getting twisted or damaged when moving the TV around other pieces of furniture.
The Fix?
- Buy a new one! Your TV will thank you later. Replacements are usually no more than $6, and you can get them shipped directly from Amazon, so don’t worry about breaking the bank.
Reason #5: Your HDMI Port May Be Dirty/Clogged
If the TV keeps changing input, it could mean that your HDMI port is dirty or clogged. This may sometimes prevent your television from reading a signal.
You can usually check this out by unplugging all of your HDMI cables and looking at both the metal cable connector and port with a flashlight. If they’re dusty- time for some good old-fashioned spring cleaning.
The Fix?
- It’s best to use a compressed air duster to clean your HDMI ports and TV. You can find small aerosol bottles at local grocery stores for less than $20.
- Avoid using liquid cleaners as they can damage electronics.
Performing a routine cleaning will prolong the life of your HDMI cord, so you won’t have to replace it. You never know what lurks behind your television!
Reason #6: There Is External Damage to the TV
If none of the above scenarios apply, there is likely external damage to your Vizio TV, causing it to malfunction and change inputs.
The exact cause of external damage to your television is often too complex to diagnose for the everyday man (or woman). Although, it could be the result of something as simple as spilled water.
Usually, your best bet is to call in a professional.
The Fix?
- First, perform your own multi-point check on all things associated with your TV. Check the power cord, the remote control, and anything else plugged in to ensure they are all functional.
- If you don’t detect any issues, you can reach out to a trained Vizio TV technician and have them take a look.
Related Questions
Why won’t my Vizio TV turn on?
The most common reason your Vizio TV won’t turn on is a problem with the power cord. First, check to see if the cable is properly plugged in and swap it to another electrical outlet.If neither works, there may be a technical issue with the television itself. It’s best to have a knowledgeable serviceman diagnose the exact point of concern.
Does Vizio TV have a remote app?
Yes, Vizio TV does have an app that can be used on your mobile device as a substitute for a remote. The app is called SmartCast Mobile, and it’s available for both iOS and Android devices. You can get it from the Apple iTunes Store or Google Play Store.One of the best features of a Vizio TV is that they are equipped with the Wireless SmartCast feature, which enables you to have complete control from your mobile device. You can choose a video from YouTube or Netflix and cast it directly to your TV screen.It’s important to point out that the picture quality may not be as good as if you were using a cable connected directly to your TV. This is because a wireless connection is generally slightly slower.
Why kind of batteries does a Vizio TV remote take?
Vizio TV remotes typically take two AAA batteries. You can easily replace them by removing the battery cover on the back of the remote. Once you’ve placed new batteries inside, ensure that they are installed in the correct direction and put the battery cover back on!
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The Bottom Line
Vizio TVs are some of the most popular on the market today. Chances are, you have a Vizio TV in your home or office and may not even know it!
If you find that it’s changing input without warning, chances are that something has gone wrong with either the ‘Auto Detect’ feature or one of the HDMI ports is clogged with debris.
Doing a factory reset on your television should fix many of these problems. However, if they persist, consult a professional to ensure there isn’t any external damage to your device.
Also, remember to replace any HDMI cords every 5 years since they can become damaged over time!
Emily is a copywriter with over five years of experience in crafting content for the home renovation and remodeling industry. She loves house projects, whether it be painting a room or tweaking small design elements to transform a space. Her favorite aesthetic is french modern because of its clean lines and airy feeling! When not writing, Emily loves to travel and check out architectural details all over the world.
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