The red ring of death is everyone's worst nightmare with an Xbox 360, and it can happen to anyone. You will feel like there is no more hope for your Xbox 360, but there are several solutions available to fix your console.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Repair your Xbox yourself
Step 1. Look at the light code
There are 5 different light codes that can be displayed around the power button on the Xbox 360. Each code represents a different error message.
- Green lights. Green lights indicate that the console is plugged in and functioning properly. The quantity of green lights indicates the quantity of controllers connected.
- A red light. It indicates that your console has experienced a hardware failure. It is usually accompanied by the error code "E74", or a similar code displayed on your television screen. This error occurs when the video chip is damaged.
- Two red lights. This indicates overheating. If the console gets too hot, the console will turn off and two red lights will appear on the display. The fans will continue to run until the components have cooled.
- Three red lights. This is a console hardware failure, also known as the red ring of death. This indicates a failure of one or more components, and that the console is no longer functioning. No error code will be displayed on your television.
- Four red lights. This indicates that the audio / video cable is not properly connected. Check the audio / video cable connection between your console and the television. These lights will not be displayed if there are problems connecting the HDMI cable.
Step 2. Purchase a repair kit from the Internet
Although it will not be an easy operation, you can find a repair kit for a price equivalent to that of a game. These kits usually consist of a tool to open the Xbox 360, replacement thermal paste., radiators and washers. In some kits you will also find all the necessary screwdrivers. Repairing your console yourself can be tricky, but it will solve the problem in most cases.
Step 3. Open the 360
A special tool for opening an Xbox will make it easier for you, and this tool is usually found in the majority of repair kits. Opening the console will be the trickiest part of the operation, if you don't have the special tool …
Step 4. Remove the DVD drive
Disconnect the cables from the back of the DVD player. Once the cables are disconnected, lift up the DVD player and remove it.
Step 5. Remove the fan
Remove the plastic cover by pressing on the sides and pulling it out. Disconnect the fan cable from the motherboard. Remove the fan from the case.
Step 6. Disconnect the feed plate
Use pressure to lift the plastic cover and remove it from the circuit faceplate. Remove the three screws that connect the plate with the case. You will need a T6 screwdriver.
Step 7. Remove the motherboard from the case
Once the case has been fully opened, you can slide the motherboard directly out of the case. Place it on a protected surface to prevent damage and to limit static electricity.
Step 8. Lift the clips on the back of the motherboard
You can lift the clips and remove them with a flat screwdriver. Proceed slowly to avoid damaging the motherboard with the screwdriver.
Step 9. Remove the heat sinks from the CPU and GPU
Once the clips have been removed, directly lift the heat sinks and remove them from the motherboard. You may need to use a bit of force to loosen the heat sinks from the thermal grease.
Step 10. Scrape off the old thermal paste and apply a new coat
You will likely need to use acetone or nail polish remover to remove the old thermal paste.
You don't need to apply a lot of thermal paste. If the paste boils over when you install the new heat sink, there is too much of it. Remove the heatsink again and clean off the excess thermal grease
Step 11. Remove the crushed thermal pads
Replace them with the ones supplied in the repair kit. They will apply more pressure on the plate, preventing the RAM from losing its place.
Step 12. Reassemble the Xbox
Make sure everything is screwed perfectly into place. Plug in your Xbox and try to turn it on.
Method 2 of 3: Have your Xbox repaired
Step 1. Have your console repaired by a professional
Many stores, online stores and physical stores offer Xbox repairs. These professionals will essentially perform the steps detailed above. They can also redo the welds using a heat gun. These repairs can be expensive, but it is certainly safer to have your console repaired by a professional than to take care of it yourself.
Be careful to choose a store you can trust. Do not send your Xbox to the first repairer you find on the Internet, search and confirm its legitimacy
Step 2. Send your console to Microsoft
If your console is still under warranty, Microsoft will replace or repair it. You may need to pay shipping charges, or you may be charged additional charges depending on your warranty. If your warranty has expired, you can pay Microsoft to repair it. It will cost less if you make your repair request through the Microsoft website.
Microsoft will be able to repair your console for up to three years from the date of purchase
Method 3 of 3: Avoid a red ring of death
Step 1. Cool down your console
Heat is the number one cause of hardware failure for the Xbox 360. The Xbox 360 needs to be properly cooled in order to function properly. Overheating can be the cause of several hardware problems, including failure of various components.
Too much heat can melt the motherboard, separating it from the CPU and GPU chips
Step 2. Install your console in a well ventilated area
Do not place it in a closet or in a closed place. Check that there are no other electronic devices nearby, and that nothing is blocking its ventilation slots. Do not place your Xbox 360 on a carpet, otherwise it will not be able to dissipate heat through its bottom ventilation.
Step 3. Avoid playing for a long time
Leaving your Xbox on all the time will cause it to give off more and more heat. Take breaks to allow it to cool down.
Step 4. Place your console horizontally
Many testimonials say that if you install your Xbox 360 vertically, you will decrease its ability to dissipate heat, and this will increase the likelihood of scratching a disc. Place your console horizontally on a flat, hard surface.
Step 5. Avoid placing objects on top of your Xbox
Objects placed on your Xbox will reflect heat back toward the console. Empty the top of your console.
Even placing a few games on top of your Xbox case can increase its heat significantly
Step 6. Clean up your playroom
Be careful to clean the dust regularly around your console to prevent it from entering. Clean around to reduce the amount of dust in the air.
Step 7. Dust off your Xbox
Use a vacuum cleaner to vacuum the dust from the ventilation grilles. Wipe your console regularly. When it is really necessary, you can open the shell of your console and use a canister of compressed air to expel the dust present on the components.
