Struggling to set up your Vizio TV and stuck on the setup screen? You’re not alone—many users face this issue, unable to progress to the home screen.
While setting up a Vizio TV is generally straightforward, this problem can occur during the initial setup or after a reset.
Demo Mode: In this guide, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this issue and share effective solutions to help you get your TV up and running.
Reasons Your Vizio TV is Stuck in Setup Demo Mode
If your Vizio TV won’t boot to the home screen, there could be a few underlying causes:
- No working internet connection.
- Outdated TV firmware.
- Malfunctioning remote buttons.
- Issues with the main board.

5 Ways to Get Your Vizio TV Out of Demo Mode
Try the following methods to resolve the setup screen issue on your Vizio TV:
1. Check the Remote
If any buttons on your remote are unresponsive, it may prevent you from completing the setup. Test all buttons, including the directional pad, and replace the batteries if needed.
2. Perform a Power Cycle Reset
A power cycle reset may help your TV exit demo mode. Unplug the TV from the wall, then press and hold the power button to drain any remaining power. Let it stay off for at least 30 minutes before powering it back on and checking if the setup process can now be completed.

3. Switch to Another Input
If you’re unable to complete the setup process using the phone app, try switching to a different input on your TV. Newer Vizio models have a single button; press it to open the input menu, then select Smartcast. Long press the button to confirm your selection.
For successful setup, ensure your internet connection is stable, either through a strong Wi-Fi signal or by connecting an Ethernet cable directly to the TV if available.
4. Update the Firmware
An outdated firmware version could prevent the setup process from completing. Vizio periodically releases firmware updates, so ensure yours is up-to-date. Locate the serial number on your TV, visit Vizio’s official download page, and save the update to a USB drive.
To install the update, format the USB drive to FAT32, then place the firmware files in the main directory (not in subfolders). After updating, your Vizio TV should exit setup mode.
5. Contact a Technician
If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be time to consult Vizio support. Contact them for a technician visit who can diagnose and fix any hardware issues. Avoid attempting DIY repairs unless you’re experienced, as improper handling could lead to further damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Vizio TV stuck in setup demo mode?
Your Vizio TV may be stuck in demo mode due to a few reasons: an internet connectivity issue, outdated firmware, malfunctioning remote, or a problem with the TV’s main board. Identifying the root cause can help in resolving the issue efficiently.
How can I fix my Vizio TV if the remote isn’t working in demo mode?
If the remote isn’t working, try replacing the batteries and ensure all buttons are functional. Alternatively, you can use the TV’s physical button to navigate the setup process or change the input if the remote continues to malfunction.
Can a power cycle reset help get my Vizio TV out of demo mode?
Yes, performing a power cycle reset can help resolve the issue. Unplug the TV, press and hold the power button to drain any residual power, and leave it off for about 30 minutes before turning it back on. This can reset the TV and potentially exit demo mode.
Do I need an internet connection to get my Vizio TV out of demo mode?
Yes, a stable internet connection is required to complete the setup process and exit demo mode. Ensure your Wi-Fi is strong or use an Ethernet cable to connect your TV directly to the internet for better performance.
What should I do if none of the solutions work to get my Vizio TV out of demo mode?
If the previous steps don’t resolve the issue, you should contact Vizio customer support for further assistance. A technician may be required to diagnose and fix any underlying hardware issues if software solutions are ineffective.
conclusion
Getting your Vizio TV out of setup demo mode can often be resolved with basic troubleshooting steps such as checking your remote, performing a power cycle reset, switching inputs, or updating the firmware. Ensuring a stable internet connection is also crucial for completing the setup process.
If these methods fail, reaching out to Vizio’s customer support and scheduling a technician visit is your best option. Avoid attempting DIY hardware repairs unless you have the necessary expertise, as improper handling could worsen the issue.