How to Reset LG TV: Factory Reset, Soft Reset & Troubleshooting for Every webOS Version (2026)

Your LG TV is frozen, apps keep crashing, or you're getting ready to sell it. Whatever brought you here, you need your TV working again - and you need it fixed fast.

The good news: most LG TV problems can be solved with a reset in under 10 minutes. The tricky part is knowing which reset to use. LG TVs have four distinct reset levels, and picking the wrong one can wipe your data for no reason.

This guide covers every reset method for every webOS version from 4.5 through 26, including what to do when you've lost your remote, forgotten your PIN, or can't see anything on screen. I've tested these procedures across multiple LG TV models - C-series, G-series, B-series, and NanoCell - and verified each menu path against LG's official support documentation.

Quick Guide: Which LG TV Reset Method Do You Need?

Before you do anything drastic, figure out which reset actually matches your problem. Here's the cheat sheet:

LG TVs have four reset levels - power cycle, soft reset, AV reset, and factory reset - and you should always start with the least destructive option. A factory reset erases every app, saved password, WiFi credential, and picture setting on the TV.

Before you factory reset: Write down your WiFi password, streaming service login details, and preferred picture settings. A factory reset erases everything and cannot be undone.

What Happens When You Reset an LG TV (Soft vs Hard vs Factory Reset Explained)

A factory reset on an LG TV erases all installed apps, saved passwords, WiFi settings, personalized picture and sound configurations, and paired Bluetooth devices. The TV restarts to its initial setup screen as if brand new. Your streaming subscriptions (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) are tied to your account, not the TV - they won't be cancelled.

Here's what trips most people up: "restart" and "factory reset" are completely different operations. A restart clears temporary memory and reboots the operating system. A factory reset wipes the TV clean. Confusing the two is the fastest way to lose all your settings for nothing.

When you probably don't need a reset at all: Many common problems - slow apps, buffering, occasional freezes - resolve with simpler fixes. Try clearing the cache on your LG TV first, or check whether a firmware update is available. LG's webOS Re:New program provides up to five years of webOS upgrades for TVs from 2022 onward, and firmware updates frequently fix the exact bugs that would otherwise require a full reset.

How to Soft Reset (Restart) an LG TV Without Losing Data

A soft reset is your first line of defense. It clears temporary memory and restarts webOS without touching your apps, logins, or settings. If your LG TV is running slow, start here before escalating to anything more drastic.

Method A - Power Cycle (Best for Frozen or Unresponsive TVs)

This works even when the TV won't respond to the remote:

1. Unplug the TV from the wall outlet (not just the power strip).

2. Wait 60 full seconds. This matters - it takes that long for the capacitors inside the TV to fully discharge. Skipping ahead won't fully clear the memory.

3. Press and hold the power button on the TV itself for 10 seconds while it's still unplugged. This drains any residual electricity.

4. Plug the TV back in.

5. Power on normally using the remote or the TV's physical button.

If your LG TV keeps turning on and off after a power cycle, the problem may require a factory reset or hardware inspection.

Method B - Remote Restart

Press and hold the power button on your LG remote for approximately 5 seconds until the TV turns off and restarts on its own. On some models, pressing and holding Volume Down + Power simultaneously triggers a forced restart.

Method C - Menu-Based Restart (webOS 22 and Newer)

Navigate to Settings → All Settings → General → System → Power → Restart. This option isn't available on all webOS versions, but if you see it, it's the cleanest restart method.

When to use each: Power cycle for frozen screens that won't respond to input. Remote restart for minor glitches where the TV is still responsive. Menu restart for routine monthly maintenance. None of these methods affect your apps, settings, or saved data. For persistent screen problems, you may need to escalate to a factory reset.

How to Factory Reset an LG TV Using the Remote (Every webOS Version)

This is the nuclear option - and the most important section of this guide. A factory reset erases everything and returns your TV to the setup screen you saw the day you unboxed it. You'll need to reinstall apps and sign back into every streaming service.

Step 1: Identify Your webOS Version

The menu path for factory reset varies by webOS version. To find yours: go to Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV (or Support → Software Update on older models). If you need help, here's how to find your LG TV model number.

Step 2: Follow the Menu Path for Your webOS Version

webOS 6.0 through 26 (2021–2026 TVs)

This covers the vast majority of LG TVs in active use. The menu path has remained consistent across six generations:

1. Press the Settings (gear) button on your remote.

2. Select All Settings (the gear icon at the bottom of the quick menu).

3. Navigate to General.

4. Select System.

5. Choose Reset to Initial Settings.

6. Enter the password. The default is 0000. If you set a custom PIN and forgot it, jump to Section 7.

7. Choose your reset option:

   • Reset All - Erases everything, including WiFi credentials. Use this when selling or giving away the TV.

   • Reset All Except Network Settings - Preserves your WiFi connection. Use this for troubleshooting when you want to keep your network setup.

8. Confirm the reset and wait. The TV will restart to the initial setup screen within 5–10 minutes.

I'd recommend Reset All Except Network Settings for troubleshooting. It saves you from having to re-enter your WiFi password and reconnect during setup - a small convenience that competitors' guides consistently ignore.

webOS 5.0 (2020 TVs)

The path is slightly different for 2020 models:

1. Press Settings on your remote.

2. Select All Settings.

3. Navigate to Support (not General).

4. Select Reset to Initial Settings.

5. Enter password 0000 and confirm.

webOS 4.5 and Earlier (Pre-2019 TVs)

1. Press Settings on your remote.

2. Select All Settings.

3. Navigate to General.

4. Select Reset to Initial Settings (no System submenu on these versions).

5. Enter password 0000 and confirm.

After the reset completes, you'll need to pair your LG remote again (the Magic Remote requires re-pairing), connect to WiFi, and scan for channels if you use an antenna.

"Reset to Initial Settings" is grayed out? This typically means hotel mode is active, parental controls are restricting access, or a software bug is interfering. Don't panic - see how to turn off hotel mode on LG TV or jump to Section 10 for fixes.

How to Factory Reset LG TV Without a Remote (5 Proven Methods)

This is the second most searched question in the entire LG TV reset topic - and for good reason. Remotes get lost, batteries die, and IR sensors fail. Here are five methods ranked by reliability, with no commercial bias toward any third-party app.

If you're wondering how to turn on your LG TV without a remote in the first place, the physical power button is your starting point for every method below.

Method 1 - Physical Power Button Hard Reset

This is the fastest option when the TV is completely unresponsive:

1. Press the power button on the TV to turn it off. The button is usually located on the bottom center, bottom right, or rear panel - it varies by model.

2. Unplug the TV from the wall outlet.

3. Press and hold the power button on the TV for 10 seconds to discharge residual electricity.

4. While still holding the power button, plug the TV back in.

5. Wait for the LG logo to appear and the initial setup screen to load.

Important distinction: This is technically a hard power reset, not a menu-driven factory reset. It resolves many software issues but doesn't fully wipe the TV the way a Settings menu reset does. If you need a complete data wipe (for selling the TV), use Method 2 or 3.

Method 2 - TV Joystick/Button Menu Navigation

Most LG TVs have a small joystick-style control button. Locate it (bottom center, rear panel, or bottom right depending on model), then:

1. Press the joystick to bring up the on-screen menu.

2. Use directional presses to navigate to Settings.

3. Navigate to General → System → Reset to Initial Settings.

4. Enter password 0000 and confirm.

The joystick navigation is slower than a remote, but it gives you full menu access for a proper factory reset.

Method 3 - LG ThinQ App (Smartphone as Remote)

If you can control your LG TV with your phone, this is the most user-friendly option:

1. Download the LG ThinQ app from the App Store or Google Play.

2. Make sure your phone is on the same WiFi network as the TV.

3. Open the app and follow the pairing prompts. You may need to enter a code displayed on your TV screen.

4. Use the app's remote interface to navigate to Settings → All Settings → General → System → Reset to Initial Settings.

This works beautifully when the TV is responsive but you just don't have a physical remote. The ThinQ app is LG's official companion app - it's free, and it turns your phone into a full-featured remote. You can also connect your phone to the TV for screen mirroring through the same app.

Method 4 - USB Keyboard

Plug a standard USB keyboard into any USB port on the TV. Use the arrow keys and Enter to navigate the Settings menus exactly as you would with a remote. Follow the standard factory reset path for your webOS version.

Method 5 - Universal Remote or IR Blaster App

Purchase a universal remote compatible with LG TVs or use a smartphone IR blaster app. Once programmed, navigate to Settings and perform the factory reset through the standard menu. You can also pair a universal remote to your LG TV as a permanent replacement.

Limitations to keep in mind: Methods 1 and 2 require physical button access. Method 3 requires the TV to be on the same WiFi network - if you need to connect your LG TV to WiFi without a remote, you'll need to use the joystick button or USB keyboard first. Methods 4 and 5 require the TV to be responsive enough to accept input.

How to Use AV Reset on LG TV to Fix Picture and Sound Issues

AV Reset is the overlooked middle ground that most guides skip entirely. It resets only your picture and sound settings to factory defaults - without touching apps, WiFi, or account logins.

When to Use AV Reset

If your LG TV picture looks off after someone accidentally changed settings, or you're seeing a blue tint on your LG TV that wasn't there before, AV Reset is your first stop. It's also useful after connecting a new soundbar when audio output settings get scrambled.

How to Perform an AV Reset

1. Press the Settings (gear) button on your remote 3 times rapidly in a row.

2. A popup menu appears with the heading "Select functions you want to access."

3. Select AV Reset from the options.

4. Confirm the reset. Your picture and sound settings return to factory defaults.

On some older models, you may need to press the Mute button 3 times rapidly instead of the Settings button. Both methods trigger the same hidden quick-access menu, as documented on LG's official AV Reset support page.

What AV Reset preserves: WiFi settings, installed apps, account logins, language preferences, paired Bluetooth devices. What it resets: Picture mode, brightness, contrast, color temperature, sound mode, audio output settings.

AV Reset won't fix app crashes, WiFi issues, or a frozen TV - those problems need a soft reset or factory reset.

How to Reset LG TV Password and PIN Code (Default Codes + Recovery)

Forgotten your LG TV PIN? You're not locked out permanently. LG has a hidden master PIN recovery sequence that most guides don't mention.

Default PIN Codes

Try these first before anything else:

Standard PIN Change

If you know your current PIN and want to change it: Settings → Safety (or Lock) → Change Password → Enter current PIN → Enter new PIN → Confirm.

Hidden Master PIN Recovery (When You've Forgotten Your PIN)

This is the procedure most people don't know about, and it works across multiple LG TV generations:

1. Navigate to Settings → Safety (or Lock on some models).

2. Highlight "Reset PIN Code" but do NOT press OK yet.

3. On your remote, press: Channel Up, Channel Up, Channel Down, Channel Up (Up twice, Down once, Up once).

4. A master PIN input window appears.

5. Enter 0313. If that doesn't work, try 0325 - some models use this alternative code.

6. The PIN resets to the default 0000.

7. You can now set a new PIN.

This sequence is confirmed on LG's official support page for PIN recovery and has been verified across TVs from 2014 through 2025.

Important notes: This recovery method requires an LG remote (or a remote that supports channel up/down buttons). Universal remotes may not send the correct signal for the button sequence. If the TV is in hotel mode, PIN recovery may not work - you'll need to disable hotel mode first.

How to Reset an LG TV with a Black Screen

A black screen is one of the most stressful TV problems because you can't see the menus to navigate. Before assuming the worst, work through these steps in order.

Step 1 - Power Cycle First

Unplug the TV → wait 60 seconds → hold the power button on the TV for 10 seconds → plug back in. This resolves the majority of software-caused black screens.

Step 2 - Check If Sound Still Works

If you can hear audio but see no picture, the TV itself is functioning. The problem is likely a backlight issue, T-Con board failure, or an HDMI input problem. Try pressing the Input/Source button to change HDMI inputs - you may be stuck on a source that isn't sending a signal.

If your TV screen appears unusually dark but not completely black, the backlight settings may have been changed accidentally. An AV Reset (Section 6) can fix this if you can navigate the menu by feel or with the ThinQ app.

Step 3 - Blind Factory Reset via Remote

If the TV is responsive (you hear sounds, the power LED reacts) but the screen is black, you can attempt a blind factory reset. This is a best-effort method - exact navigation depends on your webOS version:

1. Press Settings on the remote. Wait 3 seconds.

2. Press the right arrow 3 times (this should highlight "All Settings").

3. Press OK. Then press down arrow to navigate toward General.

4. Press OK, then navigate toward System → Reset to Initial Settings.

5. Enter 0000 and confirm.

The ThinQ app is a better option here - it shows the TV interface on your phone screen, giving you visual feedback.

Step 4 - Use LG ThinQ App for Visual Navigation

If the TV is connected to WiFi, open the ThinQ app on your phone, connect to the TV, and use the app's remote interface. The app's screen mirroring can show you what's on the TV even when the TV's display isn't working.

Hardware vs. Software Diagnosis

If the power cycle doesn't restore the picture AND the TV produces no sound at all, this likely indicates a hardware failure - failed backlight, power supply board, or main board. No amount of resetting will fix a hardware problem. If your LG TV isn't turning on at all, or it's flashing on startup, a technician should examine it.

When to Contact LG Support

If you've tried everything above and the screen is still black, contact LG's 24/7 chat support. If your TV is within the standard warranty period (typically 1 year for parts and labor), the repair may be covered at no cost.

How to Reset an LG Hotel or Hospitality TV (Disable Hotel Mode)

Bought a secondhand LG TV from a hotel liquidation sale or refurbished dealer? There's a good chance it's stuck in Hotel Mode - a commercial setting that restricts settings access, disables smart apps, blocks factory reset, and locks input changes.

Hotel Mode also prevents casting to the TV and disables most smart features. Here's how to remove it.

Method 1 - Installer Menu Code

1. Press and hold the Settings/Menu button on the remote for 5 seconds until the menu appears and then disappears, and the channel info banner appears.

2. Immediately release the button and enter 1105 using the number keys.

3. Press OK. An installer/setup menu should appear.

4. Navigate to Hotel Mode and set it to Off.

5. Exit the menu and restart the TV.

Alternative Codes

If 1105 doesn't work, try these:

• 0413 - Common alternative installer password

• 0000 - Default on some models

• 1234 - Occasionally used on certain variants

If None of the Codes Work

The previous hotel's IT department likely changed the installer code from the default. Your options at this point:

• Contact LG commercial support with proof of ownership (purchase receipt from the liquidation).

• Replace the main board/motherboard - this is a last resort, typically costing $80–$200 for the part. It effectively resets the TV to a completely clean state.

Community-verified solutions from iFixit's LG hotel TV threads and AVForums confirm that the 1105 code works on the vast majority of LG hospitality models from 2012 through 2025.

Buying tip: When purchasing secondhand LG TVs, always verify the TV isn't in hotel mode before paying. Check that all settings are accessible and smart apps are available.

Troubleshooting: What to Do When Your LG TV Reset Doesn't Work

This is where every other guide stops - and where the most frustrated users need the most help. If the standard methods failed, here's what to try next.

Problem 1 - "Reset to Initial Settings" Is Grayed Out

This is one of the most common complaints in LG TV forums, and LG's own support page just says "contact support." Here are the actual causes and fixes:

1. Hotel/Hospitality Mode active - See Section 9 above. This is the #1 cause.

2. Parental controls restricting access - Try disabling Safety/Lock settings first. Go to Settings → Safety and turn off any active restrictions.

3. Software bug - Power cycle the TV (unplug for 60 seconds), then try accessing the reset option again.

4. Persistent issue - If nothing works, contact LG's 24/7 chat support for remote assistance.

Problem 2 - TV Stuck in Boot Loop After Reset

1. Unplug the TV for 5 full minutes (not just 60 seconds - give the system extra time).

2. Press and hold the power button on the TV for 15 seconds while unplugged.

3. If the TV has USB access, try a firmware recovery: download the latest firmware for your specific model from LG's software & drivers page, place the file in a folder named "LG_DTV" on a FAT32-formatted USB drive, and insert it during power-on. The TV should detect the firmware and prompt you to install.

Problem 3 - Stuck on Initial Setup Screen After Reset

If you factory reset but don't have a remote, you can't complete the initial setup wizard without one. Your options: purchase an LG Magic Remote (recommended over universal remotes for full webOS functionality), use the LG ThinQ app on your phone, or connect a USB keyboard to navigate setup.

Problem 4 - TV Keeps Restarting on Its Own

If your LG TV keeps turning off or turning on by itself, the culprit is often the Quick Start+ feature:

1. Go to Settings → General → Devices → TV Management → Quick Start+ and set it to Off.

2. If that doesn't resolve it, check your power outlet and cable for loose connections.

3. A full factory reset can clear any software corruption causing phantom restarts.

4. If restarts persist after a factory reset, this may indicate a power supply board issue - consult a technician.

Problem 5 - WiFi Won't Connect After Reset

If your LG TV keeps disconnecting from WiFi after a reset, or says no signal, try forgetting the network and reconnecting manually. Also check if you need to update the TV's firmware - WiFi stability improvements are a common inclusion in webOS updates.

When to Contact LG Support

If you've tried power cycling, factory reset, and firmware updates and the problem persists, it's time for professional help. LG offers 24/7 chat support, and scheduling a repair through their support portal is straightforward.

How to Set Up Your LG TV After a Factory Reset

You've wiped the TV. Now what? Here's the complete post-reset setup walkthrough, followed by maintenance tips to reduce the chances of needing another reset.

Initial Setup Walkthrough

After a factory reset, the TV will boot to the initial setup wizard. The sequence:

1. Language selection - Pick your preferred language.

2. Country/Region - Select your location for content and channel settings.

3. Terms and conditions - Accept LG's terms (required to proceed).

4. Network connection - Connect via WiFi or Ethernet. If you chose "Reset All Except Network Settings," your WiFi should already be connected. Otherwise, navigate to your network, enter the password, and connect your LG TV to WiFi.

5. LG Account sign-in - Optional but recommended for accessing the LG Content Store and downloading apps.

6. Voice Recognition setup - Configure or skip.

7. Magic Remote pairing - Point the remote at the TV and follow the on-screen prompts.

8. Channel scan - If you use an antenna, the TV will scan for available channels. If you primarily stream, you can skip this. For cord-cutters, it's also worth exploring how to get local channels without an antenna.

Reinstalling Apps

On webOS 22 and newer, pre-installed apps (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video) typically restore automatically once you're connected to the internet. Other apps need manual reinstallation from the LG Content Store. After installing, make sure to update your apps to the latest versions.

Firmware Update - Do This Immediately

Right after completing setup, go to Settings → Support → Software Update → Check for Updates. Enable Auto Update to keep the TV current. Outdated firmware is one of the most common causes of the bugs that force resets in the first place.

Reconnecting Smart Home Devices

If you previously had your TV connected to smart home systems, you'll need to re-pair them: Google Home, Alexa, or Apple HomeKit all require fresh setup after a factory reset.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Resets

These habits reduce the likelihood of needing another factory reset:

• Keep firmware updated. Enable auto-update, or check manually once a month.

• Power cycle monthly. Unplug the TV for 60 seconds once a month to clear accumulated cache. Think of it like restarting your computer.

• Close unused apps. Long-press the Home button to access the app switcher, then close apps you're not using. This frees memory and reduces crashes.

• Disable Quick Start+ if you're experiencing phantom power-on or power-off issues. It's under Settings → General → Devices → TV Management.

• Position your WiFi router within 30 feet of the TV and prefer the 5GHz band for streaming. Weak WiFi signals cause buffering and app errors that mimic software problems. If you need to turn WiFi on after it gets accidentally toggled off, go to Settings → General → Network → Wi-Fi Connection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Resetting LG TVs

Does factory reset fix a black screen on LG TV?

A factory reset can fix an LG TV black screen only if the cause is a software glitch. If the black screen comes from hardware failure - a faulty backlight, power supply board, or T-Con board - no reset will help. Always try a power cycle first (unplug for 60 seconds) before resorting to a factory reset. If the TV has no picture and no sound after power cycling, the issue is almost certainly hardware-related and may be covered under LG's standard warranty.

Will I lose my Netflix account after factory resetting my LG TV?

No. A factory reset doesn't cancel your Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, or any other streaming subscription. Those accounts are tied to your email/password, not the TV hardware. After resetting, you'll need to reinstall the apps and sign back into each service. You'll also need to re-pair any Bluetooth devices like headphones or soundbars.

How long does a factory reset take on LG TV?

A factory reset on an LG TV typically takes 5 to 10 minutes from the moment you confirm the reset to reaching the initial setup screen. The TV will restart automatically during the process. Don't unplug the TV or press any buttons while the reset is in progress.

Can I undo a factory reset on LG TV?

No. A factory reset is irreversible once confirmed. All apps, settings, logins, and personalized data will be erased. There is no "undo" button or recovery option. Always write down your streaming credentials and take photos of your picture settings before resetting.

Does resetting LG TV improve picture quality?

Only if the problem was caused by incorrect settings. A factory reset restores all default picture modes - it doesn't magically improve the panel itself. For picture-only issues, try an AV Reset first (press Settings 3 times → select AV Reset). It corrects picture and sound settings without wiping your apps and data.

Is it safe to factory reset an LG TV during a firmware update?

Never interrupt a firmware update. Resetting or unplugging the TV during an active update can cause a boot loop or permanent software corruption. Wait for the update to complete fully - the TV will restart on its own when finished. Only then should you perform any type of reset.

Can I reset just WiFi settings without factory resetting my LG TV?

Yes. Navigate to Settings → General → Network → Wi-Fi Connection, select your current network, and choose "Forget." Then reconnect by selecting the network again and entering your password. This doesn't affect any other settings on the TV. If your LG TV won't connect to WiFi after forgetting the network, try power cycling your router and the TV before reconnecting.

How do I factory reset a non-smart LG TV?

For non-smart LG TVs without webOS, perform a power cycle: unplug the TV for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. Some older non-smart models have a Reset or Initial Setup option under the Settings or Setup menu accessible via physical buttons on the TV. If your older model supports a full reset, you'll still find it under the menu system. LG has a solid track record across both smart and non-smart TV lines.

What is the LG TV master reset code?

The LG TV master reset code for the PIN is 0313 (some models use 0325). To use it: go to Settings → Safety → highlight "Reset PIN Code" (don't press OK) → press Channel Up ×2, Channel Down ×1, Channel Up ×1 on the remote → enter 0313 when the master code window appears. The PIN resets to 0000.

Does LG TV have a physical reset button?

No. LG TVs do not have a dedicated physical reset button anywhere on the chassis. To perform a factory reset, use the on-screen menu (Settings → General → System → Reset to Initial Settings) or perform a power cycle by unplugging the TV for 60 seconds. The only physical buttons on most LG TVs are the power button/joystick used for basic navigation.

This guide consolidates reset instructions that LG.com splits across three separate support pages, adds tested solutions for without-remote and black-screen scenarios that no competitor covers comprehensively, and includes community-verified PIN recovery and hotel mode codes. All procedures were verified against LG's official documentation and tested across multiple webOS versions.