Missing freeview channels

A YouView Box FAQ

If you’re missing Freeview channels from your guide, it’s likely to be a result of a signal issue. Try these steps and we’ll see if we can recover your missing channel(s):

Pop your postcode into an Availability Checker. Is the channel you are trying to tune to listed?

Yes

Right, so you can receive this channel. Try the next steps to see if we can pick up that channel.

No

If you can’t see it in the list, the channel may not be available in your area.

If this happens viewers are advised to do a retune of their YouView box to ensure they receive the correct channels. If the issues continues we recommend contacting the Freeview Advice Line on 0808 100 0288 for more help.

Head around the back of your box and check the aerial cable is securely connected to the Aerial In/Antenna In port.

Don’t forget to check the other end of the aerial cable is also connected to the aerial socket in your home.

Using an indoor aerial? Some of these are powered aerials, check the plug is connected and the aerial is powered on. 

Also ensure your Ethernet network cable is securely connected between your YouView box and the router or powerline adapter. This error code also appears when you have an issue with an internet channel so it is important to ensure a good internet connection.

If you need help with your internet connection, please check here.

Bring up the menu with your remote

  1. Select Settings*
  2. From Signal & Connection select TV Channels
  3. Select Retune Channels**

It can take a couple minutes to tune. Don't worry, we'll let you know when we're done.

Please note that it is not possible to manually retune the box.

If you've retuned and your signal is still on the low side, have a look through the steps in our How to improve your signal article. 

If you have any trouble with retuning your YouView box or you've lost some channels, please contact your box provider or internet service provider.

*Settings can be found via the cog in the top right corner of the Menu. You can get to the cog by pressing Up and right after opening the Menu.

The old “switch it on and off” routine. Overused but it can often help resolve the issue. Press and hold the  supportSiteInlineImage button on your box for 8 seconds, then let go. You’ll be greeted with a friendly ‘Hello’ telling you that your box has restarted.

Every so often maintenance works are carried out to keep your transmitter in top condition. This might weaken your signal or interrupt your service.

Check the Freeview website to see if your transmitter is affected. 

Don’t know what transmitter you’re using? Pop your postcode into the Freeview home checker to find out.

If your area has multiple transmitters available, you can find out if there's any transmitter faults and see the signal strength of the alternative transmitters on the BBC Reception Check website.

The signal from your aerial might not be strong enough. 

  1. Select Settings* from the Menu
  2. Select Signal Quality from Signal & Connection

If your signal quality is below 50% you may start seeing issues with your picture. Have a read of our article: How to improve your signal for more information.

*Settings can be found via the cog in the top right corner of the Menu. You can get to the cog by pressing Up and right after opening the Menu.

Sometimes the issue is out of your control. You could be affected by outside signal interference, such as:

  • Storm/windy weather or high pressure conditions
  • Engineering works to your local transmitter 
  • 4G mobile transmitters

Have a read of our article: How to improve your signal for more help.

We didn’t expect you to end up here, but thanks for trying all the steps.

We’d suggest contacting the Freeview Advice Line on 03456 50 50 50 and they can help you further.