For Xbox 360 owners, few things are more annoying than the Red Ring of Death (RRoD). Luckily, you can take a few steps to avoid it, or work around it if you're already experiencing RRoD. Read this guide to repair your console and continue playing.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Recognizing the Symptoms of RRoD
Step 1. Notice the drop in game performance
If your game is taking a long time to load, or if the game starts to crash and freezes on its own, this could be a symptom of a console crash.
Step 2. Be aware of poor system performance
If your Xbox stops working frequently, even when you're not playing, the hardware may be starting to fail.
Step 3. Understand the different color codes
There are 5 different color codes displayed around the Xbox 360 power button. Each color indicates a different level of damage.
- The green light indicates that the console is on and operating normally. The number of green lights indicates the number of controllers connected.
- One red light indicates hardware failure. This code is usually displayed with the code "E74" and the like on television. This means that the scalar video device on the console has been damaged.
- Two red lights indicate that the console is overheating. If the console overheats, the system will shut down and display a color code. The fan will continue to run until the component cools down.
- Three red lights signify a general hardware malfunction, or the Red Ring of Death. This code indicates that one or more components have failed, and the system can no longer operate. No error code will appear on the TV.
- Four red lights indicate the AV cable is not connected properly. Check the connection from the console to the TV. This code will not appear if you are using an HDMI connection.
Method 2 of 3: Repairing RRoD
Step 1. Purchase an RRoD repair kit
This kit usually consists of an Xbox 360 opener, as well as new heat transfer paste, fans, and screws. Some tools even include the screwdriver you'll need. Doing the repair yourself may be difficult, but it can fix most cases of RRoD.
- To perform the repair yourself, you will need to open the Xbox 360 and remove the motherboard from the case. After removing the motherboard, you will need to remove the fans from the CPU and GPU by pulling the clamps behind the motherboard.
- After removing the fan, you will need to remove the old heat-conducting paste and apply a new paste. You may need to use acetone or nail polish remover to remove the old paste. After removing the paste, you'll need to remove the heat-conducting pad.
- Replace the fan and heat-conducting pads with new ones, and reassemble the Xbox.
Step 2. Take the console to a professional repair shop
There are many stores, both online and offline, that offer Xbox repair services. This service will perform the steps described above, and its personnel may reheat the solder with a heat gun. These repair services may be expensive, but they are more secure than doing the repair yourself. Make sure you choose a trusted service.
Step 3. Send the console to Microsoft
If your console is still under warranty, Microsoft will replace or repair your faulty console. If your warranty expires, you can pay Microsoft a repair fee. Repair costs may be cheaper if you register here.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing RRoD
Step 1. Understand the cause of the hardware failure
Heat is the number one cause of Xbox 360 hardware failure. The Xbox 360 must be properly ventilated in order to operate properly. Excessive heat can cause a lot of hardware problems that cause damage to various components.
Excess heat can bend the motherboard, and strip the CPU and GPU
Step 2. Store the system in a well-ventilated area
Do not store the Xbox in a cabinet or other enclosed area. Make sure other electronics are not near the machine, and keep the Xbox vents open. Don't store your Xbox in a carpeted area because it won't be able to blow air out from under the console.
Step 3. Avoid playing too long
Running the Xbox continuously will increase the heat it creates. Give the Xbox a break to cool it down.
Step 4. Place the system horizontally
It's been proven that storing the Xbox vertically reduces its ability to absorb heat, as well as increasing the risk of the CD being scratched. Lay the system horizontally on a firm, level place.
Step 5. Don't stack objects on top of the Xbox
Stacked objects will return heat to the system. Keep the top of your Xbox clean.
Step 6. Clean your play area
Make sure you remove dust periodically to prevent particles from accumulating in the system. Clean the dust in the surrounding environment to reduce the amount of dust in the air.
Step 7. Clean your Xbox
Use a vacuum cleaner to suck dust from the ventilation ducts. Clean dust from the system periodically. In extreme cases, you can open the system and use compressed air to remove dust from the components.
