How to Fix Xbox 360 Problems

Since the Xbox 360 launched, the early models have had more than it’s share of technical problems. If you bought an Xbox 360, only to get the dreaded Red Ring of Death (RRoD), there are a few steps that you can take to get your Xbox 360 up and running again.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• The serial number from the Xbox 360
• Microsoft’s customer support number

1. Shut your Xbox 360 down, unplug it from the wall and let it sit for about half an hour. Overheating can cause the Xbox to freeze during play. It can also cause the system to falsely display the RRoD.

2. Turn the Xbox back on. If it is still having problems, move on to step 3.

3. Move the Xbox to a place where it can get plenty of air through its vents.

4. Check to make sure your console is stable. If it is sitting at an angle, the Xbox can scratch the discs or overheat.

5. Call Microsoft customer support. If none of the above steps work to solve whatever problem you’re having, your Xbox has probably had a serious hardware failure. Microsoft is very aware of this problem, and has extended the warranty of the Xbox 360 to 3 years from the date of purchase. If your system qualifies, you can send it to Microsoft for repairs free of charge to you. If your console is out of warranty, then you may have to pay a small fee.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the original receipt for your Xbox. That way if there is a problem, you have proof of your original purchase date.

• When you set your Xbox 360 up, set it in a well ventilated, dust-free area. This will assist the Xbox by keeping it dust free. If too much dust invades the Xbox console, it can clog up vents and restrict air flow inside, which can overheat the system.

• Never buy an Xbox 360 used. If you buy this system second hand, and the previous owner opened the case, tries to modify the inside in any way, or has used any non Microsoft additions to the Xbox, the warranty is automatically void.

• Do not use any intercoolers. If you use an intercooler on your Xbox, make sure that it is one that is approved by Microsoft, or it could void your warranty. Some intercoolers have also been known to cause the RRoD, which is what they were made to prevent!