can you use a universal remote on car dvd player

[EllianaDella]

Yes, you can often use a universal remote with a car DVD player, but it is not a guaranteed solution for every system. The success depends heavily on whether your specific car DVD player uses an infrared (IR) signal for remote control and if the universal remote's database includes the correct code for your player. Many aftermarket head units are compatible, while factory-installed systems in vehicles are frequently proprietary and less likely to work.

The first step is to identify your DVD player's type. Aftermarket systems (those you install yourself or have installed by a car audio shop) from brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, or Alpine are the best candidates. They typically use standard IR technology. Factory-original equipment (OE) systems, especially those integrated with the car's main infotainment console, often use proprietary communication protocols, making universal remote compatibility very low.

To set it up, you'll need a "learning" or programmable universal remote. The process usually involves:

1. Finding the correct code for your DVD player brand in the remote's manual or online database.
2. Entering the programming mode on the remote and inputting the code.
3. Testing basic functions like play, pause, and menu navigation.

A major limitation is that a universal remote may not support all the specialized functions of your original remote. It will handle basic commands but might not access unique settings or secondary menus. For integrated systems, a better solution might be an IR repeater kit, which can extend the signal from a home universal remote to your car's interior.

Compatibility Factor	Likelihood of Universal Remote Working	Common Brands/Examples
Aftermarket DVD Player	High	Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, Sony
Factory OE System	Very Low	Ford MyFord Touch, Toyota Entune, BMW iDrive
Portable DVD Player	Medium	Players with a dedicated IR sensor
System using RF Signal	None	Some higher-end integrated systems

[Regina]

As a dad who's dealt with this, it's hit or miss. If you bought the DVD screen separately and stuck it to the headrest, a universal remote from a big-box store might work. You just look up the code for the brand. But if it's built into the car from the factory, forget it. Those things are locked down tight. It's worth a quick try for the kids in the back, but don't spend more than twenty bucks on the remote.

[DelTheo]

From a technical standpoint, the barrier is the communication protocol. Universal remotes operate on infrared, which is line-of-sight. Many modern vehicle systems use a CAN bus or other networked data signal for control, which a standard universal remote cannot replicate. Therefore, compatibility is primarily limited to standalone, aftermarket entertainment components that were designed with standard IR reception in mind.

[VanEverly]

I tried this with my old van's aftermarket player. I had to dig through an online PDF to find the right three-digit code. It worked for play and stop, but the menu button did nothing. It was a decent temporary fix after the original remote got lost. Just know you'll probably lose some functions. It's a compromise, not a perfect replacement.

[McFrank]

Check the remote that came with your player. If it has a little dark red window on the front, that's an IR emitter. That's a good sign. Next, search online for "[Your DVD Player Brand] universal remote codes." If you find lists of codes, you have a chance. If your search comes up empty, the system is likely proprietary, and you'll need to order a direct replacement from the manufacturer or a site that sells original remotes.