The red ring of death. It's any Xbox 360 owner's worst nightmare, and it can happen to anyone. It might seem like your Xbox is hopeless by now, but there are ways to get it right again, especially if you're willing to get your hands a little dirty. Follow this guide to find out how.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Repair the Xbox yourself
Step 1. Decode the combination of lights
There are a total of 5 different light codes that are used by the Xbox to report a fault. Each of these represents a different failure
- Green lights. Green lights indicate that the console is on and working properly. The number of green lights indicates the number of connected controllers.
- A red light. This indicates a hardware malfunction and is usually accompanied by an “E74” or similar code shown on the TV. This code indicates a damaged scalar video chip.
- Two red lights. This indicates overheating. If the Xbox gets too hot, the system will shut down and this code will be shown. The fans will continue to spin until the components have cooled down.
- Three red lights. This code indicates general hardware malfunction, also known as the “red ring of death”, and indicates that one or more components are malfunctioning and the system is no longer being used. No error message is shown on the TV.
- Four red lights. This indicates that the AV cable has not been connected correctly. Check the console-TV connection. This code will not be shown for HDMI connections.
Step 2. Purchase a repair kit online
While there is no quick fix, there are repair kits, which cost a lot less than a new game. These kits typically include an Xbox opening tool, thermal paste, new heat sinks, and new gaskets. Some even include the screwdrivers needed during maintenance. Performing the repair yourself can be difficult, but in any case, you will be able to solve the error of the three red rings.
Step 3. Open the Xbox 360
To make things easier, use the Xbox opening tool, included in most repair kits. Opening the console is the most difficult part of maintenance operations.
Step 4. Take out the DVD drive
Disconnect the cables from the back of the DVD player. Once the cables are disconnected, pull up the DVD player and pull it out.
Step 5. Remove the cooling fans
Remove the plastic cover by pressing on the sides and pulling it away. Disconnect the fan cable from the motherboard. Remove the cooling fans by pulling them away.
Step 6. Disconnect the motherboard
Pry up the plastic bezel of the front circuit board with a lever. Remove the three screws connecting the motherboard to the case. You will need to use a T6 screwdriver.
Step 7. Pull the motherboard out of the case
Once the case has been fully opened, you can slide the motherboard out. After that, place it on a protected surface to prevent damage or electrostatic shock.
Step 8. Pry up the clamps behind the motherboard with a small screwdriver
Do this slowly to avoid damaging the motherboard with the screwdriver.
Step 9. Remove the heatsinks from the CPU and GPU
Once the clamps have been removed, lift the heatsinks, if necessary, using a little force to detach them from the thermal paste.
Step 10. Scrape off the old thermal paste and apply a new layer
You may need to use acetone to completely remove the old thermal paste.
You don't have to apply a lot of thermal paste. If the paste comes out from under the sink when you put it back, you put too much. Remove the heatsink again and wipe off the excess thermal paste
Step 11. Remove the sticky thermal pads
Replace them with the new thermal pads found in the repair kit. These serve to apply more pressure on the motherboard, to prevent the RAM from being dislocated from its housing.
Step 12. Reassemble the Xbox
Make sure everything has been screwed back on properly. Connect the Xbox and try to turn it on.
Method 2 of 3: Bring the console in for repair
Step 1. Have your console repaired by a professional technician
There are many companies, both online and in brick and mortar stores, that offer Xbox repairs. These technicians will only carry out the operations described above. They may also try to resolder components. These repairs can be expensive, but safer than trying to fix the Xbox yourself.
Make sure you choose a trusted company. Don't submit your Xbox to the first online site you find, do your research and make sure the store is honest
Step 2. Send the console to Microsoft
If you're still under warranty, Microsoft will replace or repair your failed console. However, you may find yourself paying shipping fees or additional costs, depending on your warranty details. If the warranty has expired, you will be asked to pay the repair costs, which will be less if you register on the Microsoft repair site.
Microsoft may repair your console for up to 3 years after purchasing it
Method 3 of 3: Preventing the red ring of death
Step 1. Prevent overheating
Heat is the number one cause of hardware malfunction in the Xbox 360. This console must remain as cold as possible to function properly. Overheating can be the cause of a large number of hardware problems, and leads to the malfunction of various components.
Excess heat deforms the motherboard, separating it from the CPU and GPU
Step 2. Keep the system well ventilated
Do not place it in a locker or other enclosed space. Make sure the electronics are not blocked and that none of the fans are blocked. Do not place the 360 on a carpet or carpeted surface, otherwise you will block the bottom ventilation.
Step 3. Avoid playing for a long time
Keeping the Xbox on constantly will increase the amount of heat generated. Rest your system every now and then.
Step 4. Keep the system horizontal
We are now convinced that placing the system vertically decreases its ability to dissipate heat, as well as increasing the possibility of scratching the discs. Place the system horizontally on a hard and smooth location.
Step 5. Avoid stacking objects on top of the Xbox
The objects placed above the Xbox will prevent the recirculation of air by obstructing the proper ventilation of the system. Therefore keep the surface of the system clear.
Even placing a couple of cases on top of the Xbox can cause a significant increase in temperature
Step 6. Keep your play area clean
Make sure you dust the room thoroughly to prevent dust particles from accumulating in the system. Vacuum the entire room to reduce the amount of dust in the air.
Step 7. Clean the Xbox
Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the dust from the fans. Pass a piece on the system. In extreme cases, you can open the case and blow compressed air on the components.
