The 3DS is one of the best gaming consoles around, with a great library built up after nearly 10 years in circulation. But the system has also run into its fair share of technical hiccups over the years. There’s nothing worse than pulling out your favorite 3DS games, only to find the system doesn’t work as expected, particularly when you aren’t sure how to fix them. Show
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Below, we’ve compiled a list of known technical issues 3DS owners have been dealing with, along with some steps you can take to fix or prevent them. Some of these only apply to a particular version of the system — the original 3DS’ design is substantially different than the New 3DS XL, for instance — while others are issues that occur across the entire 3DS family. How to get in touch with Nintendo
Nintendo previously had an error code lookup page on its site, but it has been streamlined into a basic search function now. To use it, visit the support page here and simply type in the error code in the search box in the top right. This will direct you to a page with an explanation of the error code you’re getting. You can use these resources for Nintendo Switch problems as well. Your system is freezing or won’t turn offJeffrey Van Camp/Digital TrendsJust like mobile phones and computers, the Nintendo 3DS can occasionally lock up completely. In that state, it will not register the buttons you’re pressing, including the power button. Luckily, there is a relatively simple fix for this should you have it occur. Solution
Your system won’t wake up from Sleep modeJeffrey Van Camp/Digital TrendsIf you’re finding that your 3DS won’t “wake” from its Sleep mode, your issue is likely related to the unit’s battery not being charged enough. This can occur when you open your first-generation 3DS and the screen refuses to come back to life, or after pressing the “sleep” switch on the side of a 2DS system. Solution
Console isn’t charging properlyJeffrey Van Camp/Digital TrendsIf your battery is dying after a short period of use, the issue could be related to either your charger or the system itself. Solution
Lines and smudges appear on your top screenThe original 3DS was a remarkable piece of hardware when it launched in 2011 thanks to its glasses-free 3D technology, but its external design was also quite flawed. When you open the system after having it closed, you may notice vertical lines appearing on the far-left and far-right portions of the top screen. They’re particularly noticeable when the 3D effect is turned on. This is due to the bezel surrounding the bottom touch screen being slightly too raised, causing it to make contact with the top screen. Note: 3DS models since the original were modified to prevent this problem. Solution
Speakers are “popping” or making other undesirable noisesThe 3DS’ weak point, across nearly every model, is sound quality. The console’s internal speakers are quiet, tinny, and generally a great incentive to buy a nice pair of headphones. If you’ve been using them in quiet environments, you may have also noticed a popping or crackling sound occurring. Solution
Circle Pad isn’t working correctlyThe Circle Pad on the left side of the 3DS isn’t the most resilient of components. Competitive Super Smash Bros. players can attest to its flimsiness, and it’s capable of breaking off entirely, which would require a more extensive repair. However, if your Circle Pad isn’t acting like it should be, you may be able to fix the problem by simply recalibrating it. Solution
How to make a new Circle Pad3DS XL Broken Circle Pad Quick Fix Before you send your 3DS in to be repaired by Nintendo, you might want to consider repairing the system yourself. This fix may violate your system warranty, though technically it does not require any disassembly. Solution
The touch screen isn’t respondingThe touch screen on the 3DS is used extensively in the system’s games, but it can be quite a bit more finicky than the screens on iOS devices or even the PlayStation Vita. This is largely due to the system using a “resistive” screen that uses pressure and not electric conduction to function. Solution
Your system’s hinge is looseIf you’re using one of the original 3DS models, you might notice that the console’s hinge continues to move quite a bit even after it “clicks” into place. This is in contrast to the very stiff hinge seen on the original DS, and unfortunately, it isn’t something that can actually be fixed. Note: Models after the original 3DS have largely rectified this issue. Solution
Games are running poorly on your “old” 3DSWill Fulton/Digital TrendsSince the introduction of the more powerful New Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo has released several games that can technically run on both systems, but do not run well on older 3DS models. We’ve compiled a list of these games below, as well as what kind of glitches you can expect if you run them on an older model:
Solution If you’re not looking to buy a new model, there’s not much you can do to solve this issue. We advise looking for a New 3DS, New 3DS XL, or New 2DS XL. Sadly some of the more recent 3DS games just don’t work or are glitchy on the original model. It’s hard to say goodbye, but it’s probably time to ditch your old model for the new. Editors' Recommendations
How do you fix 2DS that wont turn on?First, ensure that the device is charged and the power switch is in the 'on' position. If these actions do not cause the 'device on LED' to light up, the battery may be faulty. Follow this guide to remove the battery. Test the battery with a voltmeter; if there is no voltage, the battery is dead and must be replaced.
Why does my 3DS make a popping sound?What causes the 3DS or 3DS XL Popping Fault? Most of the time it is just caused by wear and tear. The ribbon cables for all of the components in the top half of the console run through the hinge. The constant opening and closing of the 3DS can cause the cables to have a little tear in them.
How do you force restart a 2DS?Press and hold the POWER Button down until the system resets; this may take some time. Once the system is powered down, press the POWER Button once to turn it back on.
How much does it cost to fix a 2DS?Though the device's warranty doesn't cover physical damage, upon inquiry Nintendo of America offered to repair the system for $65 plus an additional shipping and handling fee, which varies by location.
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