Most TVs have a parental control lock that can be set to prevent children from watching specific television shows. In order to activate or deactivate the controls, you need to know the four digit security code or parental lock control password. If you forget the number you chose or if the lock gets set accidentally, it is still possible to unlock the TV.
Things You'll Need
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- Remote control
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Step 1
Turn on the TV and grab the remote. In most cases, you will need the original remote to unlock the TV if you aren't sure of the unlock code. If you don't have the original remote, you will need to purchase one.
Step 2
Look at the screen. If you see a blank screen with a red key on the bottom of the screen, press 'Function' and 'Mute' at the same time. This should unlock the channel. This is an option for people who want the TV to stay locked but, want to be able to bypass the lock to watch a certain show or channel. All other channels will remain locked and the TV will fully lock when it is turned off.
Step 3
Unlock all of the channels on the TV by entering the factory reset code. There are three main reset codes that TV manufacturers set. These are 0711, 6688 and 3308. Try each one until you find the one that works. This will reset the TV to original factory settings. When you do this, you will loose any information that you have stored in the TV, such as favorite channels, automatic timers and the clock. You will have to go through the full initial set up.
Step 4
Call the technical support service number in your owner's manual if none of those codes work. A technician can help you troubleshoot the television because the problem may not be the locking control. When you call, make sure that you have the model number and serial number of the TV.
Step 5
Take your television to a TV repair shop. In some cases, a professional who access to wiring diagrams for your television set may have to rewire certain components in order for the television to unlock. This is usually the case when the TV locks by itself while it is on.
Tips & Warnings
- Never try to rewire a TV yourself unless you have and understand a wiring diagram for your television. You can damage components that are very costly to replace if you make a mistake.