How to Fix the 3 Red Lights on an XBox360
It's an unfortunate drawback to owning an Xbox 360 console: For many, the inevitable red quadrant lights, some call it the "The Red Ring of Death," means something has gone terribly awry. Usually this means the console's internal hardware has suffered some mishap, but it can also mean external components aren't up to speed and may need your attention. Luckily for gamers, a few steps exist that a "Red Ring" victim can take to restore his machine.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Unplug the Xbox 360 console from the wall or power strip. Then unplug and remove all cords from the console's body. Set the cords aside. Use a dry cloth to wipe away dust on the Xbox's vents and attachment sites. Let the console cool, then plug everything back in and boot up to see if the rings return. Place the console in a better ventilated place to avoid overheating.
-
2
Check all the cable attachments if the ring is flashing all four quadrants (thus a complete ring). Push on the cords gently to see if all connections are properly secured and if the power cord is firmly in its power source. It may also mean you need to purchase a new power cord.
-
-
3
Check the paperwork that came with your console to see if your Xbox is still under Microsoft's warranty. Log on to Microsoft's Support website and register your console's information and to schedule a repair service. Generally speaking, if your warranty has expired there will be some out-of-pocket expense. If your Xbox registered an "E74" error, the repair service is free of charge. Ship your Xbox per Microsoft's instructions.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Do not make the attempt to fix internal hardware problems yourself; this voids any active warranty and may further damage the console.
