Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team
How to Fix a PlayStation 4 that Randomly Powers Off
If your PlayStation 4 (PS4) is randomly powering off, follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue:
- Check for Overheating:
- Ensure the PS4 is placed in a well-ventilated area and not overheating.
- Clean any dust from the vents using compressed air.
- Check the Power Cable:
- Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the PS4 and the power outlet.
- Try using a different power cable if available.
- Update System Software:
- Go to Settings > System Software Update and ensure your PS4 is running the latest system software.
- Rebuild Database:
- Boot the PS4 into Safe Mode by holding the power button until you hear two beeps.
- Select “Rebuild Database” from the Safe Mode menu. This process may take some time but can resolve software issues.
- Check Hard Drive:
- Ensure the hard drive is securely installed by removing the top cover and checking the connection.
- Consider replacing the hard drive if it appears to be faulty.
- Disable HDMI Device Link:
- Go to Settings > System and uncheck “Enable HDMI Device Link” to prevent the PS4 from turning off with your TV.
- Reset to Factory Settings:
- Go to Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 and choose “Full” to perform a factory reset. This will delete all data, so back up important information first.
Contact Support.Com
If you are still having trouble, refer to the Step-By-Step Guide below, or Contact Support.Com for Personalized Assistance.
1. Introduction
There can be many causes for your PlayStation 4 shutting down on its own. Power delivery, heat, or a few software problems can cause this problem.
This guide will walk you through checking the basics, as well as performing some basic maintenance to get you back up and gaming soon.
2. Heat Check
Overheating is the most common cause of a PlayStation 4 shutting down randomly.
- The entire back of your PlayStation 4 has vent holes to release hot air. The sides of your PlayStation 4 are also ventilated.
- Make sure your PlayStation 4 isn't in an enclosed area, such as a small shelf in a home entertainment center. It requires room around it to release the heat it generates when turned on.
- Make sure your system does not have its air vents covered by decorations or soft furnishings.
- Check for dust as it will impede airflow and have a negative impact on cooling.
After making sure your PlayStation 4 isn't overheating, it's often a good idea to allow it 30 minutes to cool down before starting it back up again.
3. Check Power
The AC IN connector shape on the power cable varies depending on your PlayStation 4 model.
- Make sure the AC adapter is plugged into the back of your PlayStation 4.
- Make sure the AC adapter is plugged into the wall outlet.
- Power on the PlayStation 4 by pressing and releasing the power switch located on the front side of the device. You will hear it beep briefly when pressing it.
4. Power Management Check
Power management devices, such as power strips, surge protectors, and power conditioners, wear out over time. This is by design; they take surges so your expensive home theater, video game, and sound system equipment does not.
As power management devices near or exceed their end-of-life usefulness, they can start to have problems providing the right voltages or enough amps to your home theater equipment, such as your Television.
The easiest way to test this is to simply plug your device into the wall, rather than into your power management device. If your device works when plugged into the wall, you will know your power management device has failed and it is time to replace it.
5. Safe Mode
Safe Mode allows you to start the system with the most basic functions only. The Safe Mode menu options may help you correct issues and allow your PlayStation 4 to start normally.
- Connect the DualShock 4 controller with the USB cable and press the PS button on the controller.
- Turn off the PlayStation 4. The power indicator will blink for a few moments before turning off.
- Once the PlayStation 4 is off, press and hold the power button on the console.
- Release the power button only after you've heard two beeps: one when you first press, and another seven seconds later.
- If successful, the system will boot to Safe Mode. Try again if you didn't get it the first time.
6. Rebuild Database
Rebuild Database will scans the drive and create a new database of all content.
- Once you get to Safe Mode, go to Rebuild Database and press X. None of your installed games or features will be affected.The database will be rebuilt, it might take a few hours to rebuild the database will be displayed.Select OK.
- The screen will go blank whilst the database is being rebuilt and this could take a few hours depending on the amount of saved content.
- When the rebuild has finished the console will return to the sign in screen.
- The rebuild is now complete.
7. Initialization Check
Our next step, normally, to solve this problem involves re-initializing your PlayStation 4. This means removing all downloaded games, and removing all user accounts.
You would need to sign back in, and re-download any games and patches you've downloaded in the past.
8. Safe Mode
Safe Mode allows you to start the system with the most basic functions only. The Safe Mode menu options may help you correct issues and allow your PlayStation 4 to start normally.
- Connect the DualShock 4 controller with the USB cable and press the PS button on the controller.
- Turn off the PlayStation 4. The power indicator will blink for a few moments before turning off.
- Once the PlayStation 4 is off, press and hold the power button on the console.
- Release the power button only after you've heard two beeps: one when you first press, and another seven seconds later.
- If successful, the system will boot to Safe Mode. Try again if you didn't get it the first time.
9. Initialize
Initializing your PlayStation 4 restores it to it's default settings and deletes the saved data on your console and all users from the system.
- Since you are already in Safe Mode, scroll down and select Initialize PS4.
