What to Do If Wii Remotes Keep Blinking?

The Wii remote is an integral part of the Wii game console. If your Wii remotes aren't functioning properly, you are out of luck playing Wii games. Luckily, there are many easy fixes for a Wii remote that keeps blinking and won't communicate with the Wii console.

Replace the Batteries

When a Wii remote begins to act erratically, your first step should be to replace the batteries. Wii remote batteries should last around 30 hours, but drain more quickly if you are using the nunchuk or if there is a lot of rumble, motion or sound in the games you are playing. If the Wii remote is blinking and won't let you check the battery life onscreen, try replacing the batteries by removing the back cover from the Wii remote and inserting new batteries.

Re-sync the Wii Remote with the Wii Game Console

In case of a power surge or electrical disruption, the Wii console automatically shuts down and reboots itself. This shutdown can cause various settings to not work properly, such as not recognizing a previously working Wii remote. This shutdown can happen without you being aware of it. First, turn the Wii power off by pressing the "Power" button on the front of the Wii. Then unplug the power cord from the outlet. Wait two minutes, then plug the cord back into the outlet. Next, turn the Wii on by pressing the "Power" button. Once you see the start-up screen, open the small SD card slot under the Wii's disk drive. Press the red "Sync" button above the SD card slot for 15 seconds to start fresh and clear the Wii of any previous Wii remote syncs. Now re-sync the blinking remote by removing the battery cover from the Wii remote and pressing the small red "Sync" button. The blue lights on the front of the Wii remote should blink. Quickly, go back to the front of the Wii console, open the SD card slot and press the red "Sync" button. Look at your Wii remote. It is successfully re-synced with the console when the lights quit blinking, and one blue light remains on. This blue light indicates which player, number 1 through 4, that the Wii remote is synced to. For example, if this is the first remote that you re-synced with the console, the first blue light will be on.

Look for Items that May Cause Interference

Infrared light sources can interfere with the Wii remote and cause it to blink repeatedly. Try moving any bright light source away from the sensor bar that sits next to your TV. For example, blow out candles, pull curtains closed to block direct sunlight, extinguish wood burning in a fireplace, or turn off your Christmas tree lights. Radio frequencies can also disrupt the Wii remote. Try moving or shutting off all wireless devices, such as cordless phones, wireless mice or wireless keyboards when you are playing the Wii.