Is your Xbox or Xbox 360 having problems lately? With age, these consoles begin to deteriorate and stop functioning as they did before. Thankfully, many problems have been solved online by various enthusiasts, who, by sharing their solutions, allow people to repair their console, even after the warranty is over. Start reading the article to learn how.
Steps
Step 1. Check the warranty
Before doing any repairs on your Xbox, check to see if you're still under warranty. If you open your Xbox, you will lose the warranty
- Xbox 360 consoles have a standard 1 year warranty.
- Original Xbox 360 consoles have a 3-year warranty if three flashing red lights or an E74 error appear. This does not apply to the E or S models.
Step 2. Identify the problem
There are several common problems that plague various Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles. Identifying the problem will help you determine what you need to do to fix it.
- Red Ring of Death - this is the most common problem affecting Xbox 360s, especially older ones. You realize you have it if the second, third and fourth player lights flash red around the power button.
- Disc Read Error - If the discs are not working, the hard drive in the Xbox or Xbox 360 may need to be replaced.
- Error E74 - if you see it on the screen, it means that the motherboard is deformed and some chips are potentially coming loose.
Step 3. Open the console
In order to solve any of these problems, you need to open the console. This is a fairly challenging process, especially for the Xbox 360. Opening the console may require special tools such as a Torx screwdriver and opening tool.
- See a guide to learn how to open an Xbox 360.
- Look for a guide on opening an original Xbox.
Step 4. Resolve the Red Ring of Death or Error E74
This fixing problem usually involves replacing the thermal paste and blocks for the cooling apparatus. You need to purchase a special repair kit that comes with replacement pads and thermal paste. Some are also equipped with spare reinforcements, which reduce the tension exerted on the equipment.
- Look for a guide for detailed instructions on how to fix a Red Ring of Death or E74 error.
- There is no guarantee that any intervention will allow the console to still work or that it will work for long after fixing it.
Step 5. Fix a disk malfunction
If the Xbox says it can't read the disc, look to see if there are any scratches or fingerprints on it. In this case, there are no problems with the XBox. If the disk looks fine, it is a hardware problem. Read an article for step-by-step instructions on troubleshooting various disc errors or learning how to clean the laser.
- Open your XBox and remove the disk drive. Read Step 3 to find detailed instructions for a particular Xbox console. Make a note of where the cables were connected.
- Take a cotton swab, dip a tip in alcohol and clean the laser head. Let it dry for 15 minutes.
- Reinsert the disc into your Xbox, close it and check if it reads the disc.
- If it still doesn't work, the drive may need to be replaced. Open your Xbox again and make a note of the make and model number. Buy a new disc, identical to the old one. Make sure you change the front and swap the motherboards.
Step 6. Have your Xbox repaired by a professional
Even if your Xbox is out of warranty, there are many shops that will attempt to repair your console for you. Find a trusted shop and request a quote for possible repair costs. Carefully consider whether to repair it or buy a new one.
Warnings
- Disassembling your Xbox will void the warranty, so you will no longer be able to take advantage of Microsoft's free technical support.
- You also risk having your account and console permanently 'banned' from the 'Xbox Live' service.
