Fixing Your PlayStation 4’s Hardware Issues: The Ultimate Guide

Do you own a PlayStation 4 (PS4) at home? Then congratulations on being one of the owners of one of the world’s best-selling video game consoles ever. But beneath the PS4’s success lies impressive technology that makes it a console for the ages. It comes with a powerful CPU and graphics engine. It features online streaming of games. It also boasts of a gaming controller with a built-in touchpad. And did we mention the extensive library of gaming titles spanning different genres? Despite all these impressive features, the PS4 is not impervious to issues. Fixing PlayStation 4 units is a conundrum for most owners.

Thankfully, there are ways to troubleshoot your console before deciding to take it to the nearest repair shop. Continue reading below for our ultimate guide on fixing common hardware issues on your PS4 and PS4 Pro.

The Blinking Blue Light

Of the different problems that could hound your PS4 unit, this is perhaps the most common. A PS4 that turns off randomly is a problem that forces people to take their unit to a console repair shop.  

When any of these lights start to blink, it means the console either randomly turned off or it didn’t turn on. 

A blue light means that your console may no longer be functioning. However, it doesn’t mean that your PS4 is a goner. Instead, the blue light is telling you that there’s a huge problem.

The first thing to check is your TV’s firmware. Make sure to update this firmware and see if it changes anything. Next, look into the HDMI ports on both your console and your TV set.

Check for any damages or anything odd. Do the same thing with the HDMI cables.

Also, you want to check your controller reset. On your PS4 controller, press and hold the PS button. Wait for the system light to turn orange before releasing it.

Thereafter, press and hold the PS button again. Wait for the light to turn white. This should allow your console to boot properly.

The Blinking Red Light

As for the blinking red light, it can be a signal of overheating. Most likely, the problem is with a malfunctioning fan. A fan that doesn’t work equates to overheating.

This is one of the reasons why Sony decided to beef up its cooling system for the PlayStation 5. Hence, the first thing to do is to give your PS4 a rest. 

Hit and hold the power button of your console for about seven seconds or until you hear the system beeping and powering off the unit. Unplug the main power supply and let your PS4 rest for several hours.

Another remedy is to improve the ventilation around your console. Give it some breathing room by transferring it to a well-ventilated room. Also, do not place the unit over carpets and the like.

Fixing PlayStation 4 HDMI Problems

Sometimes, it is the HDMI cables and ports that are causing your PS4 to malfunction. Generally, damaged HDMI ports and cables lead to audio and video disruptions. 

Thus, check the condition of the HDMI ports on your console, as well as your TV. To test the ports, use another set of HDMI cables and see if they will work. If they don’t, then the ports are likely damaged.

Probing deeper into the ports, check if there is a piece of metal bent upward. Get a small tool like a pin and bend the metal down. Keep watch of any missing teeth on the port as these can damage your cables.

If the ports are in good condition, then it’s likely that your HDMI cable is the problem. Thus, replace the cable with a new one.

Worn-Out DualShock 4 Analog Sticks Rubber

The PS4 is a beast of a gaming console. But that doesn’t mean it is perfect. And one of its imperfections is the rubber padding on the controller’s analog sticks. 

Because the padding is soft, it can tear down fast especially if you’re playing titles that involve lots of vigorous movements. When this happens, do not throw your controllers away. Fixing PlayStation 4 controllers sometimes involve the help of third-party products.

Thus, invest in some analog stick covers.

Head on to Amazon or GameStop and get one of these covers on your DualShock 4 controllers. Also, practice regular cleaning on your controllers. Take out the dust and grime especially around the buttons.

When dirt builds up, it may affect the performance of your controllers.

When Console Rejects the Gaming Disc

Did you ever experience your console rejecting your discs? The problem can be hardware or software-related. There are many ways to troubleshoot the problem.

For starters, check if there is already a disc inside the console. Sometimes, players tend to leave their discs inside the unit only to discover it the following day. If the console doesn’t eject the disc, you may need to tighten the manual eject screw.

You will find the steps for this one on the user manual.

If there is none inside, your next step is to clean the disc you are trying to load. Take a small and dry microfiber towel and wipe the disc from the inner portion going out.

If the console still rejects it, you may need to restart and update your PS4 from safe mode.

Charging Problems with the Controller

Swinging back to your DualShock 4 controllers, there will be times when they just won’t charge. First, check the charging cable and the port. Look for any frays or damages on the cable.

If there are no visible damages, try using another cord and see if it works. If it does, then the problem with your old cord is internal. 

Another remedy is to clean the charging port. Make sure to turn off the controller before cleaning. Use a can of compressed air and position the nozzle a few inches away from the port.

Use multiple short bursts to take out the dust. Gently wipe any debris using a microfiber towel.

Let’s Fix Your Gaming Consoles and More

Fixing PlayStation 4 starts with analyzing the problem. By performing these troubleshooting methods above, you may get your PS4 up and running in no time. But if the problem persists, we will gladly step in and take a look.

Connect with us today in any of our locations and enjoy our low-price guarantee. We repair all sorts of gaming consoles, as well as smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets.