How to Fix an XBox 360 CD Drive
Whether the Xbox 360 has three flashing red lights from overheated capacitors or from issues with the laser lens reading your games, this console is not immune to problems. Don't worry when the Xbox 360 is telling you it can't read your disc or freezes in the middle of a game, as these problems are, typically, easy to fix.
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Instructions
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1
Release any static from your body prior to touching the console. If you move away from the console in between any step, release static again by touching another metal surface. Remove any console screws on the body to release the top portion of the Xbox. Disconnect all ribbons and cables from the DVD drive. When it is no longer connected to the console, pull out the drive.
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2
Remove all screws holding the DVD drive shield. There are four screws in total. Find two in the back of the drive and two on the top. After removing the screws, pull the bottom plate off by grabbing the flip and pulling out then up. Rotate the drive so the top plate is up and remove it.
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3
Grab your can of air and blow out the top and bottom of the drive. Dip your cotton swab in a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Thoroughly moisten the swab on all sides, but do not make it dripping wet.
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4
Clean the laser lens and mirror of the drive with the swab. The laser lens is on the top and middle of the drive. The mirror is on the bottom and middle of the drive. If the swab gets too dirty, get a new one and resume cleaning.
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5
Reinsert the plates, the screws and the drive. Reassemble in reverse order starting with the top plate. Do not forget any of the four screws that hold the plates in place. Ensure the cables and ribbons are properly seeded in the drive. Reassemble the Xbox 360 and test out a game.
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Tips & Warnings
If there's excessive dust on the drive that the can of air won't remove, use a paper towel with alcohol on it to remove it. Use the swab to get to hard to reach places.
Static can be fatal to your console. Do not wear clothing that draws a lot of static. Wearing a static band also helps.
