Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox, Steam Deck: each console has its own typical faults. For each one, this guide summarises the most common symptoms, the parts to plan for and the level of repair involved, so you can prepare an accurate quote and order the right part number first time.
First of all: the console's exact model number
Different revisions of the same console do not always use the same fans, drives, screens or ports. Note the model number on the label (see our guide identifying the exact model) before ordering.
Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite and Switch OLED
| Symptom | Part to plan for | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Drifting stick | Joystick (Joy-Con or Switch Lite) | No soldering |
| Cracked screen or unresponsive touch | Touch glass (digitizer) or screen, depending on the model | Full disassembly, new adhesive |
| Games not recognised | Game card reader | No soldering |
| Console noisy or running hot | Fan, thermal paste | No soldering |
| No longer charges | USB-C port | Fine soldering (micro-soldering) |
| Poor battery life | Battery | No soldering |
PS5 and PS4
| Symptom | Part to plan for | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| No picture on screen | HDMI port (often torn off or damaged) | Soldering, experienced level |
| Noise, overheating, shutdowns | Fan, thermal paste | No soldering |
| Disc not read or ejected | Disc drive, or disc drive flex cable | No soldering |
| Drifting controller | Controller joystick | Soldering (see our controller guide) |
On PS5, check the generation (original model or Slim) and, for the disc drive, the exact revision: the parts differ.
Xbox Series and Xbox One
- No picture: HDMI port or HDMI retimer chip, replaced by soldering.
- Overheating, noise: fan and thermal paste.
- Series X or Series S: the parts are not interchangeable; check the model (1882 or 1883).
Steam Deck
- Drift or broken stick: joystick module, replaced without soldering.
- Noise or overheating: fan.
- Screen: the LCD and OLED versions use different screens.
Recommended equipment
- Tri-point and fine Phillips screwdrivers, spudgers and plastic picks.
- Thermal paste and, for recent consoles, liquid metal or replacement thermal pads depending on the model.
- For HDMI and USB-C ports: soldering station, flux, desoldering braid, microscope or magnifier.
See our guide equipping your workshop.