Few things interrupt a relaxing evening faster than reaching for your La-Z-Boy remote and getting nothing. That moment of stillness—no motor hum, no gentle recline—can turn comfort into frustration in seconds.
Before you assume the remote is broken beyond repair, know this: most issues have straightforward fixes that take minutes, not dollars. Whether your remote shows no lights, responds sporadically, or has completely stopped communicating with your chair, the solutions are usually simpler than you think.
This guide walks through every practical fix, from the most basic battery check to internal repairs, so you can identify the problem and get back to relaxing without unnecessary service calls or replacement costs.
Common Remote Issues
Understanding what typically goes wrong helps you pinpoint the problem faster. Most La-Z-Boy remote failures fall into a handful of predictable categories.
Dead or Incorrect Batteries
Weak batteries cause a surprising number of "dead remote" cases. But it's not always about age—sometimes the wrong battery type is installed. La-Z-Boy remotes typically use standard alkaline batteries, but some newer models require specific voltages or lithium cells.
Check the battery compartment label for exact specifications. If you find rechargeable batteries installed, swap them for fresh alkaline ones—rechargeables often deliver lower voltage and can cause intermittent failures.
Dirty or Corroded Battery Contacts
Even fresh batteries won't work if the metal contacts inside the compartment are dirty or corroded. White or greenish buildup, sticky residue, or tarnished metal all prevent proper electrical flow.
Cleaning these contacts with a dry cloth or a pencil eraser often restores connection immediately. For stubborn corrosion, a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab works well—just let it dry completely before inserting batteries.
Infrared Signal Blockage
La-Z-Boy remotes communicate with the chair's receiver using infrared light, similar to a television remote. Anything between the remote's front and the receiver—your leg, a throw blanket, furniture, or even direct sunlight—can interrupt that signal.
The receiver is typically a small dark window on the side or front of the recliner's control mechanism. Stand within 10 to 15 feet and point the remote directly at this sensor for the best response.
Physical Damage From Drops or Impacts
A single drop onto a hard floor can crack the circuit board inside the remote or dislodge internal connections. If your remote stopped working after being dropped, physical damage is the likely culprit.
Look for cracks in the casing, rattling sounds when you shake the remote, or buttons that feel loose or misaligned. These signs point to internal breakage that may require opening the remote for inspection.
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
Start with these simple checks before attempting any internal repairs. Most problems resolve at this stage.
Replace Batteries With Fresh Ones
Remove the old batteries and insert brand-new alkaline batteries of the correct size. Pay attention to the polarity markings—positive and negative ends must match the diagram inside the compartment.
A common mistake: mixing old and new batteries. Always replace both batteries at the same time, even if only one appears weak.
Clean Battery Contacts Thoroughly
Open the battery compartment and examine the metal springs and flat contacts. If they look dull, tarnished, or have visible residue:
- Rub the contacts gently with a clean pencil eraser until they shine
- Wipe away eraser debris with a dry cloth
- For sticky residue, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol
- Let everything dry for two minutes before inserting batteries
This simple cleaning fixes many intermittent issues where the remote works sometimes but not consistently.
Test the Infrared Signal With Your Phone Camera
Your smartphone can reveal whether the remote is sending a signal at all:
- Open the camera app on your phone
- Point the remote's front end directly at the camera lens
- Press any button on the remote while watching the phone screen
- Look for a faint purple or white flashing light on the screen
If you see a flash, the remote is sending a signal, and the problem lies elsewhere—likely blocked signal path or a receiver issue. If no flash appears, the remote itself has a problem.
Clear the Path Between Remote and Receiver
Remove any objects between the remote and the chair's sensor. Common blockers include:
- Throw pillows or blankets on your lap
- Armrests and side tables
- Direct sunlight hitting the sensor
- Sitting too far away or at an extreme angle
Stand or sit directly in front of the receiver and try again. If the chair responds, you've found the issue—just adjust your position.
Perform a Soft Reset
Sometimes the remote's internal electronics just need a brief power-down to clear minor glitches:
- Remove the batteries
- Press and hold any button on the remote for 30 seconds (this drains residual power)
- Wait two minutes
- Insert fresh batteries
- Test the remote
This process resets the remote's tiny internal processor and resolves many temporary failures.
Advanced Fixes
When basic troubleshooting fails, the issue likely involves worn internal components. These fixes require careful handling but are well within reach for most people.
Opening the Remote Casing
La-Z-Boy remotes typically have a small screw hidden under the battery compartment label or in a corner seam. Use a small Phillips-head screwdriver. If no screw is visible, the casing uses plastic clips:
- Insert a plastic pry tool or a thin guitar pick into the seam
- Gently work around the edge, releasing clips one at a time
- Avoid using metal tools, which can scratch or crack the plastic
Keep the screws in a safe container and note which side of the casing is top-facing before fully separating the halves.
Restoring Worn Button Conductivity
Buttons stop working when the conductive pad on the underside of each rubber button loses its ability to bridge the circuit. Over time, these pads wear down from repeated pressing.
Open the remote and locate the rubber button pad. The underside of each button should have a small dark circle—this is the conductive material. If it looks smooth, shiny, or worn away, the button needs help making contact.
Using Aluminum Foil as a Temporary Fix
A small piece of aluminum foil can restore conductivity quickly:
- Cut a tiny square of foil, roughly 3mm by 3mm
- Apply a tiny dab of glue or double-sided tape to the button's conductive pad
- Press the foil square onto the glue
- Trim any excess foil that extends beyond the pad
- Reassemble and test
This fix works well for one or two non-responsive buttons. For multiple buttons, consider a more permanent solution.
Applying Conductive Paint for Permanent Repair
Conductive paint creates a durable new conductive surface that lasts for years. You can find it at electronics stores or online under names like "circuit repair pen" or "conductive ink."
- Clean the worn button pad with isopropyl alcohol
- Apply a thin, even layer of conductive paint over the dark circle
- Allow it to dry completely (typically 15 to 30 minutes)
- Apply a second thin coat for reliability
- Let it cure fully before reassembling
This method restores factory-quality button response and prevents future wear.
Reassembling the Remote Correctly
Before snapping the casing shut, verify:
- The rubber button pad sits flush against the circuit board
- No wires are pinched between the casing halves
- All screws are present and tightened evenly
- The battery compartment is clean and accessible
Insert fresh batteries and test every button before closing the casing completely. If a button still doesn't respond, open it again and check that the conductive surface aligns properly with the circuit board traces.
Handling Physical Damage
A remote with cracked casing or internal breakage can often be saved with careful repair.
Inspecting Internal Components
Open the remote and examine the circuit board under good lighting. Look for:
- Cracks across the board surface
- Burnt or discolored components
- Loose wires or disconnected ribbon cables
- Corrosion spots (green or white powder)
If you find a loose wire, a small dab of solder or conductive glue can reattach it. For cracked circuit boards, replacement is usually more practical than repair.
Repairing the Casing
Hairline cracks in the plastic casing can be bonded with plastic-compatible super glue. Apply a small amount along the crack, hold the pieces together for 30 seconds, and let it cure for an hour before reassembling.
For larger breaks, plastic epoxy provides stronger adhesion. Clamp the pieces together while the epoxy cures to ensure a tight bond.
If the casing is severely damaged or missing pieces, ordering a replacement shell from an online parts vendor is the cleanest solution. Match your remote's model number, which is printed inside the battery compartment.
Deciding Whether to Replace the Circuit Board
When the circuit board itself is damaged—cracked, corroded, or with broken solder joints—replacement is the most reliable option. Compare the cost of a new board against the price of a complete replacement remote.
La-Z-Boy sells replacement remotes directly through their customer service. Third-party compatible remotes are also available and often cost less. Check that any replacement matches your chair's model and motor type, as voltage requirements vary.
Resetting the Recliner
Sometimes the problem isn't the remote at all—the chair's control system needs a reset.
Finding the Reset Mechanism
Most La-Z-Boy power recliners have a reset button located in one of three places:
- Inside the remote's battery compartment (look for a small hole marked "Reset")
- On the power supply box connected to the chair's motor
- On the control module mounted to the recliner's frame
If you don't see a labeled button, consult your chair's manual or check the manufacturer's website for model-specific guidance.
How to Perform a Hard Reset
- Unplug the recliner from the wall outlet
- Wait 60 seconds to allow internal capacitors to discharge
- Press and hold the reset button (if present) for 10 seconds using a paperclip
- Plug the recliner back in
- Test the remote
This full power cycle clears software glitches and recalibrates the motor control system.
Reset Options for Different Models
Older recliners may not have a dedicated reset button. For these models:
- Disconnect the battery pack (if removable) for five minutes
- Unplug the power supply and press any remote button to drain residual charge
- Reconnect everything and test
Always check your owner's manual for model-specific instructions, as forcing a reset on the wrong component can cause electrical issues.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
A few simple habits will extend your remote's life and reduce the frequency of problems.
Regular Cleaning Routine
Dust and skin oils accumulate on buttons and inside the remote over time. Wipe the remote weekly with a slightly damp microfiber cloth. Use a dry toothbrush to gently clean around button edges where grime builds up.
Once a month, open the battery compartment and inspect the contacts. A quick wipe prevents corrosion before it starts.
Proper Storage Habits
Avoid leaving the remote:
- On soft surfaces where it can get buried or sat on
- In direct sunlight, which can warp the plastic
- Near heat sources or radiators
- In damp areas like bathrooms
A small basket or caddy kept beside your chair gives the remote a consistent home and protects it from accidental damage.
Protecting Against Moisture
Water and electronics don't mix. Keep drinks well away from the remote, and never handle it with wet hands. If the remote does get wet:
- Remove the batteries immediately
- Open the casing if possible
- Let all components air-dry for 48 hours
- Test only after everything is completely dry
Rice is not recommended—it leaves dust inside the remote. Instead, place the opened remote near a fan or in a warm (not hot) room.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset my La-Z-Boy recliner remote?
Remove the batteries, press any button for 30 seconds, wait two minutes, insert fresh batteries, and test. This soft reset clears temporary glitches and often restores normal function.
Why is my La-Z-Boy remote not working after replacing batteries?
Dirty battery contacts or incorrect battery orientation are the most common causes. Clean the metal contacts with a pencil eraser and verify the batteries face the correct direction per the diagram inside the compartment.
Where is the reset button on my electric recliner?
Check inside the remote's battery compartment first. If no button is there, look on the power supply box or control module mounted to the chair's frame. Some models lack a physical reset button and require unplugging the chair for 60 seconds instead.
Does La-Z-Boy still offer a lifetime warranty?
La-Z-Boy provides limited lifetime warranties on frames and mechanisms for many models, but coverage varies by product and purchase date. Warranties typically exclude remote controls, batteries, and upholstery. Check your original documentation or contact La-Z-Boy customer service with your model and serial number for specific terms.
Can I use a universal remote with my La-Z-Boy recliner?
Most La-Z-Boy power recliners require a dedicated remote that matches the chair's motor and control board. Universal remotes designed for home entertainment systems will not work. Contact La-Z-Boy for compatible replacement options.
How long does a La-Z-Boy remote battery last?
With normal daily use, alkaline batteries typically last 6 to 12 months. If your batteries drain faster, check for sticky buttons that may be constantly pressed inside the remote, or consider that the remote may have an internal short.
Should I buy a replacement remote or repair the old one?
If the circuit board is damaged or multiple buttons are unresponsive despite cleaning and foil fixes, replacement is usually more cost-effective. A single button issue, dirty contacts, or minor casing cracks are worth repairing yourself.
Conclusion
A La-Z-Boy remote that stops working is almost always fixable without a service call. Start with the simplest step—fresh batteries and clean contacts—and work through the troubleshooting sequence methodically. In the vast majority of cases, the problem is minor and the solution takes under ten minutes.
If internal repairs are needed, opening the remote and restoring button conductivity with foil or conductive paint is straightforward and effective. For damaged casings or circuit boards, replacement is a practical option that still costs less than a technician visit.
Don't let a small glitch keep you from the comfort your recliner was built to provide. Each of these fixes is designed to get you back in control quickly, with minimal tools and no special skills. Try the fixes in the order presented, and you'll likely find the solution in the first few steps.
