How to Clear Error Codes on DStv & GOtv

DSTV Error Code E16 is a common issue experienced by DSTV subscribers, typically accompanied by a message stating, "Your Smartcard is not enabled for this channel." 

This error is usually linked to account or signal issues,preventing access to subscribed channels. Here’s a breakdown of the possible causes and solutions:

What are the Causes of Error Code E16 on DSTV/GOTV

1. Inactive Subscription: The most common reason for this error is an expired or inactive subscription. If your account hasn’t been renewed, the system restricts access to the channels.

2. Signal Interruption: A weak or interrupted satellite signal can cause the decoder to display this error. This might be due to weather conditions, misaligned satellite dishes, or faulty cables.

3. Smartcard Issues: If the smartcard isn’t inserted correctly or is dirty/damaged, the decoder may not be able to read it, triggering the E16 error.

4. Technical Glitch: Occasionally, a system glitch or decoder malfunction can also result in this error message.

Solutions to Resolve Error Code E16

1. Check Subscription Status: Ensure your DSTV subscription is active. You can do this by logging into your DSTV account online, using the MyDSTV app, or contacting customer service.

2. Reauthorize Your Decoder: If your subscription is active, try reauthorizing your decoder. This can be done via the DSTV website or through an SMS service by sending a reauthorization request.

3. Inspect Signal Quality: Verify the signal strength and quality by navigating to the signal information section on your decoder menu. Adjust the satellite dish or consult a technician if the signal is weak.

4. Smartcard Maintenance: Remove the smartcard, clean it gently with a soft, dry cloth, and reinsert it securely. Ensure it is placed correctly with the chip facing the appropriate direction.

5. Contact Customer Support: If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, it might be necessary to contact DSTV customer support for further assistance. They can check for any underlying technical issues and guide you through additional troubleshooting steps.

How to Prevent E16 Error Codes on Dstv

Regular Subscription Renewal: Set reminders to renew your subscription before it expires to avoid service interruptions.

Routine Equipment Check: Periodically check and maintain your satellite dish, cables, and decoder to ensure optimal performance.

How to Clear E16 Error Codes on Dstv 

Sometimes after payment for your Dstv and you still get E16 Error code, you can clear it with the following steps;

1. Check Your Subscription Status

Online: Log in to your DSTV account via the DSTV website or the MyDSTV app to check if your subscription is active. If it has expired, you’ll need to renew it.

Customer Support: You can also call DSTV customer service to confirm your subscription status.

2. Reauthorize Your Decoder

Online Reauthorization:

1. Visit the DSTV self-service portal.

2. Log in with your account details.

3. Select the option to "Clear Error Codes."

4. Choose "E16" from the list of errors and follow the prompts.

Via SMS:

Send an SMS with the message “RESET” followed by your smartcard number (e.g., RESET 1234567890) to the DSTV customer service number specific to your region.

MyDSTV App:

1. Open the MyDSTV app and log in.

2. Navigate to the self-service section.

3. Select “Clear Error Codes” and choose E16.

3. Check and Adjust Your Equipment

Signal Strength: Navigate to the signal information menu on your decoder to ensure you have a strong and stable signal. Adjust your satellite dish or consult a technician if needed.

How do I check signal strength and quality?

An E16 error occurs due to faulty installation and customers need to verify the quality and strength. This error can be cleared using the below steps:

1. Press the Help button
2. Go to General Information
3. Select on Tuner Status
4. Check Tuner 1 and Tuner 2, if the signal is low the Customer might need to contact an Installer to review the installation.

Smartcard: Remove the smartcard, clean it with a soft, dry cloth, and reinsert it securely. Ensure the card is properly inserted with the chip facing the correct direction.

4. Power Cycle Your Decoder

Turn off your DSTV decoder, unplug it from the power source, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in. Turn it on and check if the error has cleared.

5. Contact DSTV Support

If the E16 error persists after trying the above steps, contact DSTV customer support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting or check for system-related issues on their end.

6. How do I clear an E16 error on the USSD?

Customers can use the following process to clear the error:

Login to USSD

1.Select option 5: Fix errors

2.Confirm your profile

3.Enter IUC/Smartcard number

4.Save IUC/Smartcard number

5.Select error code (E16 is error code 1)

6.See confirmation notification on USSD

Customer will receive message to wait approximately 15 minutes until error is cleared

Watch the video below on How to clear E16 Error Codes on Dstv using MyDstvApp 

How to clear E16 Error Codes using Dstv website.

The first steps to do such is to Login to Dstv website.

1.Click on manage account 

2.Click on Clear Error Codes 

3.Select the error code which is E16

4.Click on clear error 

5.You will get a response that says wait for 15minutes until error is cleared

Watch  the video below 

How to clear E16 Error Codes on my GOTV 

The E16 error on GOtv usually indicates that your service has been interrupted, often due to an expired subscription or a signal issue. Here are steps to clear the E16 error:

1. Check Your Subscription Status

Ensure your subscription is active and up-to-date. You can check this via the GOtv website, mobile app, or by contacting customer support.

2. Clear the Error Using SMS

Send an SMS with the text RESET IUCNumber to 4688. Replace IUCNumber with your GOtv decoder’s IUC number.

3. Clear the Error Using the GOtv App

Open the GOtv mobile app.

Log in with your details.

Select your decoder and click on the "Clear Error Code" option.

4. Clear the Error Online

Visit the GOtv website.

Navigate to the "Self Service" section.

Enter your IUC number and follow the instructions to clear the error.

5. Reset the Decoder Manually

Ensure your decoder is powered on and tuned to a GOtv channel.

Unplug the decoder from the power source, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in.

Watch the video below