If your LG TV displays the ‘Not Programmed’ message, the most common reason is an incorrect input selection.
This issue usually happens in two cases:
- You’re using an antenna but haven’t set the correct input mode.
- You’re using a SAT-Top box or HDMI device but selected the wrong source.
This is where many people do mistakes.
And they end up feeling extremely frustrated when their LG TV continues to display the ‘Not Programmed’ message, no matter what they try.
OK, In this article, I will provide you with step-by-step guidelines on how you can troubleshoot this issue in just 3 simple steps.
Watch This video:
How To Fix LG TV Not Programmed
- If you are using an antenna, select ‘Live TV’ as the input.
- But using an SAT-Top Box, choose ‘AV’
- Run the ‘Auto Tuning’ feature.
- Power Cycle the TV.
Here are the detailed guidelines:
Method 1: Change the Input
As I mentioned earlier, in order to get a proper signal, you need to choose the right input that you are using.
If you are using Antenna,
- Press the “input” button on the remote.
- Go to All Inputs.
- From here, select ‘Live TV’
That’s it.
If selecting ‘Live TV‘ doesn’t resolve the issue, you need to use the ‘Auto Tuning‘ feature (which I will discuss later).
Similarly, if you are using an HDMI device, select that specific HDMI input, or select ‘AV‘ if you are using a SAT Top box.
Here’s how:
- Press ‘Input’ on the remote.
- Select the specific HDMI port (if using HDMI) or ‘AV’ (if using a SAT-Top box).
Remember: input selection is the key here. If you are using an Antenna, but HDMI or AV is selected, TV will throw the ‘Not Programmed’ message at your face instantly. So, select what you are using!
Method 2: Run ‘Auto Tuning’ Feature
If selecting the correct input doesn’t resolve the issue and your LG TV still displays the same message, it indicates that the TV is unable to locate the signal.
That means, the problem isn’t related to the input; instead, it’s associated with a fault in the TV’s system.
In this case, auto-tuning the signal might help.
Here’s how:
- Go to All Settings.
- Navigate to ‘General’ and then ‘Programmes.’
- Select ‘Programme Tuning and Settings.’
- From here, go to ‘Auto Tuning.’
- Finally, select your preferred option and click on ‘Next.’
That’s it.
TV will now scan all the available signals to find the programs, and it may take up to 3 minutes.
After the process is completed, press the “Input” button on the remote and select ‘Live TV.’
Your TV should now work!
📌 Pro Tip: If Auto Programme Tuning results in 0 channels, try this:
- Open Settings → General → Broadcast Country Location.
- Change it to your correct country.
- If that doesn’t work, set it to USA, UK, or Canada.
- Run Auto Tuning again.
This often helps the TV locate channels more effectively.
Method 3: Check the Connection and Antenna
Now it’s time to look at the antenna connection.
Most modern LG TVs are shipped with an antenna that has a coaxial connector for connecting to an input source, including cable, satellite, and broadband.
Make sure that the antenna is plugged in and connected correctly.
Try disconnecting and then reconnecting it again.
On the other hand, if you have a digital antenna, make sure it’s functioning properly. If you have an indoor antenna, position it correctly.
Also, try removing any objects obstructing the signal between you and your TV, such as lamps or chairs, to ensure a clear HDTV signal is being received.
LG channels not working
If LG Channel isn’t working on your TV, it’s probably because the internet connection is slow, the LG server is down, or there’s a temporary issue with the TV’s system.
I’ve already written a detailed guide with 5 ways to fix the problem with LG Channels in a previous article.
You can take a look at that article by clicking on the above link.
F.A.Q.s
Q: I moved my LG TV to a new location. Could that cause the “Not Programmed” issue?
Yes.
Moving your TV can change the available channels due to different signal strengths in new areas. Run Auto Tuning to scan for channels again.
Q. LG TV is not programmed, just blinking!
If your LG TV is continuously showing a “not programmed” message and just blinking/flashing, here’s what you have to do:
- Unplug the TV.
- Press and hold the power button for about 15 seconds.
- let it sit for an hour, and plug it back in.
If it does not work, the problem might be with the cable sending the television a picture.
In this case, switch the HDMI cable connection and check if it works. If nothing works, you may need to hard reset your LG TV.
Q: Why is my LG TV not finding channels?
Your LG TV may not be finding channels due to:
✔ The TV is not set to the correct input source.
✔ The Auto Scan feature wasn’t set up properly.
✔ A loose or faulty antenna/cable connection.
To fix this, check your input source, ensure the antenna is connected properly, and rerun Auto Tuning.

Abdul Kader, a handy guy and experienced founder of a TV repair shop in Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is mainly an expert in understanding and repairing different types of issues with Smart TVs and providing helpful insights on how to keep them in good working order. Read his Full Story.