PS3 blinking red light... FIXED

[EDiddy0042]

OK, so I'm sitting in my basement playing some Fallout 3 when my PS3 randomly shuts itself off, leaving a blinking red light instead of the normal green and blue. I tried turning it on and off by both the touch sensitive power on the front and the main power supply on the back and no luck. I've searched google and found too many answers to be sure of what to rely on, other than that they all say the PS3 is "dead". Some have said that removing the hard drive might work, while others recommend sending it to some random people to have them fix the problem.

My system is one of the orignal 60 gb, BC models, so I would hate to have to buy a new system that does not have BC. I am not so much worried about losing my data, as I could honestly care less about the trophies and playing through my games again would save me some money from not having to buy anything new. If anyone has experienced this same problem and gotten it fixed themselves, I would greatly appreciate if they could fill me in.

[FroMann]

You can call Sony but they will charge you for a repair.

[StrandedBrit]

Your system is fried. The blinking red light usually means the system has a heat malfunction. Common on the old 60s.

It's either repair or new one.

[Ecofreak]

OK, so I'm sitting in my basement playing some Fallout 3 when my PS3 randomly shuts itself off, leaving a blinking red light instead of the normal green and blue. I tried turning it on and off by both the touch sensitive power on the front and the main power supply on the back and no luck. I've searched google and found too many answers to be sure of what to rely on, other than that they all say the PS3 is "dead". Some have said that removing the hard drive might work, while others recommend sending it to some random people to have them fix the problem.

My system is one of the orignal 60 gb, BC models, so I would hate to have to buy a new system that does not have BC. I am not so much worried about losing my data, as I could honestly care less about the trophies and playing through my games again would save me some money from not having to buy anything new. If anyone has experienced this same problem and gotten it fixed themselves, I would greatly appreciate if they could fill me in.

If you're technically inclined, it may be worth trying to repair the system yourself as it's already out of warranty. Youtube will have lots of videos, I'm sure.

If the whole innards are beyond saving then unfortunately I guess you're out of luck. :-(

[EDiddy0042]

Thanks for the input guys. I wish I was better with computers so I could try and fix it up myself, but I'm gonna have to contact sony and send it in to them.

[DPsx7]

Isn't the red light just for overheating? A yellow light means hardware failure. I'd give it a try after it cools off (you weren't specific how much time passed).

If it's overheating it would certainly be smart to open it up and clean it out well. I did the same thing to my PS2 to fix a DRE (dusty lens). Repairing a yellow light at home doesn't sound hard, it's just time consuming as you need to take the console apart and run a heat gun over some of the solder points. It's up to you if your time is worth the repair fees, but at least you'll still have YOUR console and all the data.

I have a 60 model as well and so far so good. Since I'm out of warranty I will try to fix it myself before sending it out if anything should go wrong. I don't want a refurb either.

[Scorch]

I'd say let it cool down a bit. How do you have it? On a carpet, in an entertainment center, etc?

60 here as well, starting to have problems. The ethernet port is really hit or miss and sometimes the unit won't power on at all. I'll let it sit for a few minutes and then it's fine. I really hope it doesn't die. If it does, does anyone know if Sony will send me back my 60, or would they send a refurb? I definitely would not want a refurb.. If I can't have my 60, I don't want a PS3 at all.

[js1]

Usually, Sony will send back a refurbished unit.

[EDiddy0042]

So if I send it to sony there is a good chance I won't get back MY system, correct? In that case, I may look into doing it myself.

As for my system placement, I have it set underneath my TV on a glass shelf. It's set up in my basement which is kept fairly cool year round. I also have my Wii and N64 set up on the same shelf, so maybe I should find another spot for those two systems to give my PS3 some more room. Maybe I'll try plugging it back in and see if it works again.

[StrandedBrit]

So if I send it to sony there is a good chance I won't get back MY system, correct? In that case, I may look into doing it myself.

It's 99% likely you won't have the same unit back. Which is a bitch because you'll lose everything you have on there.

I've had the blinking red light of death twice on a 60GB before I had enough and switched it for a new 80GB. If you don't really use it for PS2 games I'd look into switching it out.

[EDiddy0042]

AHA! I fixed it. Thank God for youtube. I took it apart myself and fixed the problem with the direction of a youtube user.

[StrandedBrit]

AHA! I fixed it. Thank God for youtube. I took it apart myself and fixed the problem with the direction of a youtube user.

Care to share the link or youtube keywords?

The blinking red light is a sight that people that own backwards compatible PS3s see more than they should and any help to self remedy would be appreciated.

[Ecofreak]

AHA! I fixed it. Thank God for youtube. I took it apart myself and fixed the problem with the direction of a youtube user.

Congratulations!!! :applause::applause::applause:

Which video did you watch, BTW?

[EDiddy0042]

Part 1:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_Ic1_TY-GU&NR=1

Part 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vr1zyAGwnuU&NR=1

The hardest part of the process is keeping everything in order so that it goes back together correctly. Just follow it step by step, pausing the video while your perform each step and it is easy as cake. I don't know if the process would be the same for any of the other models (I would assume so), but if your PS3 gets the YLOD and your warranty is void, I highly recommend using this process.

[kube00]

Did you use your ps3 for extended periods of time?

[EDiddy0042]

Did you use your ps3 for extended periods of time?

During my Fallout 3 and Oblivion days I could probably have had it running for 5 or 6 hours at a time. Other than that my play time was limited to 1-2 hour increments.

[js1]

Congrats!

[todrigo]

Nice work, I've got a refurb 60 that is starting to go into high fan mode earlier and earlier, hopefully, not in the near future, with this video I will be able to fix it myself.

[RedarTemaG]

I've only ever seen this problem occur with the 60s.. maybe it was due to poor manufacturing control with the launch of the system. My 60 went out and I did the reflow repair on the GPU and CPU and it worked again for another week (exactly 7 days) then kicked again. I re-applied thermal paste and reflowed for a second time, got it working again and when I took it home it 'beep beep beeeped' me in the face!

I've repaired 2 other PS3s and one is still working and the other isn't; I know this other guy that specializes in PS3 repairs off craigslist and he told me that EVERY reflow fix he's done on 60g PS3s have come back multiple times. So bottom line is if you haven't opened you system up already, just pay the $150 to sony to get a new refurbished system with a new warrantee. Or just buy a new 80 or 160 PS3 like I did, the newer ones are more stable, run quiter and cooler anyway. Chances are you wont miss playing PS2 games or using the memory card ports, you can buy PS2s for under $50 and you can manipulate memory still through the usb.

[DPsx7]

Do these people think to clean the PS3 out well? Dust is probably why they overheated in the first place and likely why the problem would repeat itself so soon.

[blitz6speed]

Don't get too excited, it will die again soon. Once the PS3 has a problem, it can never be fixed permanently. If its working, best thing to do is de-activate the accounts on it, back up your saves, and move them to a new PS3. Your PS3 WILL die again, if not in a few days, then at most a month. Ive tried this fix on many PS3s, they all work for a while and all die again over and over.

[kiwi73au]

During my Fallout 3 and Oblivion days I could probably have had it running for 5 or 6 hours at a time. Other than that my play time was limited to 1-2 hour increments.

AHA! I fixed it. Thank God for youtube. I took it apart myself and fixed the problem with the direction of a youtube user.

Is the fix you done from the youtube video still working
I only ask cos im having the same problem with my 60 gig
and am thinking of trying it

[EDiddy0042]

Yep, this wednesday it'll be two weeks and its still running flawlessly. However, as I advised earlier, if you still have a warranty I would go with the Sony route. The fix isn't hard, though, so if your warranty is gone I would say take a swing at it. And just a note, I'm not a very technically gifted person (this was really the first piece of electronic equipment I ever took apart and put back together), so all it takes is a little concentration to perform the fix yourself.

If you do choose to take it apart, get a bunch of sandwich baggies and keep all the screws separate from eachother and place them with the part of the system they go with. Best of luck.

[Ecofreak]

Yep, this wednesday it'll be two weeks and its still running flawlessly. However, as I advised earlier, if you still have a warranty I would go with the Sony route. The fix isn't hard, though, so if your warranty is gone I would say take a swing at it. And just a note, I'm not a very technically gifted person (this was really the first piece of electronic equipment I ever took apart and put back together), so all it takes is a little concentration to perform the fix yourself.

If you do choose to take it apart, get a bunch of sandwich baggies and keep all the screws separate from eachother and place them with the part of the system they go with. Best of luck.

I'm curious -- how much dust was inside your PS3 when you opened it up?

[EDiddy0042]

Eh... a very substantial amount. It wasn't filled with dust, but there were little dust boogies all over the motherboard and the other pieces, and the fan had a thin coating of dust. That could've contributed to the problem

[kiwi73au]

Yep, this wednesday it'll be two weeks and its still running flawlessly. However, as I advised earlier, if you still have a warranty I would go with the Sony route. The fix isn't hard, though, so if your warranty is gone I would say take a swing at it. And just a note, I'm not a very technically gifted person (this was really the first piece of electronic equipment I ever took apart and put back together), so all it takes is a little concentration to perform the fix yourself.

If you do choose to take it apart, get a bunch of sandwich baggies and keep all the screws separate from eachother and place them with the part of the system they go with. Best of luck.

Thanks Heaps
I am out of warranty with sony I live in Australia and had the 60 gig PS3 4 a couple of years
If it was still under warranty I would have taken it there 4 sure
im not technically gifted ethier


Ps (do u have the email 4 the guy on the youtube video?)

[Magus8472]

60 gig PS3s sure do seem to have a habit of failing 24 months or so after purchase. Making me a bit queasy now that mine's hitting the two year mark.

[EDiddy0042]

Thanks Heaps
I am out of warranty with sony I live in Australia and had the 60 gig PS3 4 a couple of years
If it was still under warranty I would have taken it there 4 sure
im not technically gifted ethier


Ps (do u have the email 4 the guy on the youtube video?)

Unfortunately, I was unable to find the email address. If you have a youtube account though, you could always just shoot him a PM via youtube.

[NamPaehc]

Did yours blink red then yellow at any point? Read that yellow means it is the power supply.

>>Well I see 'hardware failure' in general now. not sure which it is yet on mine..

[EDiddy0042]

Did yours blink red then yellow at any point? Read that yellow means it is the power supply.

>>Well I see 'hardware failure' in general now. not sure which it is yet on mine..

If I looked close enough at the light, I noticed that it was a green/red light first (making it appear yellow) and then it would just kick to a straight blinking red. However, mine never flashed red once and then had a constant yellow.

[lokizz]

have there been any ps3 deaths with the 80gb bc models? ive been doing what i can to clear it out of dust but i get that feeling i could clean it better by opening it up. also when you send in a bc console to get repaired and get a refurb is it still the same kind of system like if you send in a 60gb you will get another 60gb jut not yours?

[bornrunnin31]

Fuck! This just happened to me. I really hope that youtube video up there works.

[bornrunnin31]

Double you tee eff man...
Metaly was right, first Randy, them me, now you... Sony is remotely destroying PS3s right before the slim's launch.:lol:

That is some strategy they got there to get people to adopt.

[mguiddy]

Fuck! This just happened to me. I really hope that youtube video up there works.
Double you tee eff man...
Metaly was right, first Randy, them me, now you... Sony is remotely destroying PS3s right before the slim's launch.:lol:

[EDiddy0042]

have there been any ps3 deaths with the 80gb bc models? ive been doing what i can to clear it out of dust but i get that feeling i could clean it better by opening it up. also when you send in a bc console to get repaired and get a refurb is it still the same kind of system like if you send in a 60gb you will get another 60gb jut not yours?

I have not heard of this occurring with any systems other than the 60's, so as far as I know you are safe. And I believe that's how the refurb system works, although don't hold me to it as I've never done it.

[blitz6speed]

I have not heard of this occurring with any systems other than the 60's, so as far as I know you are safe. And I believe that's how the refurb system works, although don't hold me to it as I've never done it.

I had 2 80 gig MGS4 bundles YLOD on me. Happened to my brothers 40 gig also.

[Magus8472]

have there been any ps3 deaths with the 80gb bc models? ive been doing what i can to clear it out of dust but i get that feeling i could clean it better by opening it up. also when you send in a bc console to get repaired and get a refurb is it still the same kind of system like if you send in a 60gb you will get another 60gb jut not yours?

There's no guarantee the refurb will be the same model, though it typically is.

[NamPaehc]

Double you tee eff man...
Metaly was right, first Randy, them me, now you... Sony is remotely destroying PS3s right before the slim's launch.:lol:

Mine broke too on Monday night. Gotta get a heat gun to borrow or something, main thing I need to see if this works.

>>>Saw this on the PS boards while digging up info.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a164/ajcadoo/YLOD-2.jpg

[jonlubbe]

The one that i got fixed by sony back in may died on me in July, now I am on my third PS3 and feeling a little paranoid about using it. Right now i am seriously considering getting a slim and selling off my old 60g. (still have a pstwo slim for BC)

Does that seem like a reasonable fear/solution?

[StrandedBrit]

The one that i got fixed by sony back in may died on me in July, now I am on my third PS3 and feeling a little paranoid about using it. Right now i am seriously considering getting a slim and selling off my old 60g. (still have a pstwo slim for BC)

Does that seem like a reasonable fear/solution?

That's what I did.

My original 60 gave up the ghost after 13 months. It's replacement died within the 3 month 'warranty' they give with the repair. The replacement went straight to ebay and got me a 80GB non/bc phatty. Never needed BC tbh, loss of 2 usb spots I'm living with. It's a lot quieter and runs less hot. I'm presuming the slims are even better.

[EDiddy0042]

The one that i got fixed by sony back in may died on me in July, now I am on my third PS3 and feeling a little paranoid about using it. Right now i am seriously considering getting a slim and selling off my old 60g. (still have a pstwo slim for BC)

Does that seem like a reasonable fear/solution?

If you have the PS2 for BC, then I don't see why you wouldn't do that. You would be getting a brand new system that would hopefully have all the kinks worked out and would have no issues. My only reason for keeping my 60 is that I don't have a PS2 and I still play a decent amount of PS2 games that I own and I occassionally go out and buy one or two older classics that I missed playing before. So I would say that after two glitched systems, your fear is reasonable and the solution would work out no matter how you looked at it.

[bornrunnin31]

Going to try and repair my YLOD 60gb tonight using the "Gilksy fix" that can be found online. I'll report back with my results. Most likely though, if it does work I'm gonna give it to GS for $150 and pick up a slim because the early models are obviously flawed.

[NamPaehc]

Gilksy's info worked for me. At least... I got it to boot, haven't tried any games. Was a little nervous because it was so quiet. Thought the fan might not be in right but it is working.

There wasn't much dust inside which was confusing. My room is fairly dusty so I figured that was the issue. I now think it was the sorry gunk Sony put on the GPU/CPU, plus bad ventilation on my part. Hopefully this new compound works better and I will take better care of where I leave my PS3 so it gets more cool air.

This was a refurbished 60GB. Went out once long ago, shipped it in and they sent it back fixed under warrenty. Then there was an issue with it back when GTA4 came out (the freezing fiasco). They offered to repair it even out of warranty then. Sent me a different refurbished 60GB that I have now. Think that was "Aprilish" of '08. No free repair this time...

Also I picked up my heat gun at Harbour Freight (http://www.harborfreight.com/) Tools. Had a cheap little $20 one online. But when I got there, they were on sell for $9. Only gets up to 572 degrees on low but it did the job fine. Also there is another one that gets a bit hotter, same price, but was out of stock at my location.

[EDiddy0042]

Gilksy's info worked for me. At least... I got it to boot, haven't tried any games. Was a little nervous because it was so quiet. Thought the fan might not be in right but it is working.

There wasn't much dust inside which was confusing. My room is fairly dusty so I figured that was the issue. I now think it was the sorry gunk Sony put on the GPU/CPU, plus bad ventilation on my part. Hopefully this new compound works better and I will take better care of where I leave my PS3 so it gets more cool air.

This was a refurbished 60GB. Went out once long ago, shipped it in and they sent it back fixed under warrenty. Then there was an issue with it back when GTA4 came out (the freezing fiasco). They offered to repair it even out of warranty then. Sent me a different refurbished 60GB that I have now. Think that was "Aprilish" of '08. No free repair this time...

Also I picked up my heat gun at Harbour Freight (http://www.harborfreight.com/) Tools. Had a cheap little $20 one online. But when I got there, they were on sell for $9. Only gets up to 572 degrees on low but it did the job fine. Also there is another one that gets a bit hotter, same price, but was out of stock at my location.

I noticed the difference in noise as well- when I first fixed mine, it was eerily quiet. And the heat adhesive that Sony used must've been made of bubblegum or something, because my cpu and gpu had almost nothing on them but a transparent coating.

[bornrunnin31]

So I was able to fix my YLOD last night. Unfortunately, I managed to screw up something with the BD drive because it would take and eject discs, but they wouldn't show up in the XMB. Pretty sure it's because I accidentally broke the little flap that clamps down the connector ribbon. Then, when I was testing that out, I turned the system off without ejecting the disc first and the system didn't recognize it as in so I had to find another way to get it out. So I had the bright idea to open the BD drive myself since it was out anyway to get the disc out, which turns out is a BAD IDEA. It messes up the hinges that take the disc in, and I haven't found any good info on how to fix that yet.

So yeah, YLOD is fixable but be careful when handling the motherboard and the ribbon clamps on it.

[Poor2More]

So I was able to fix my YLOD last night. Unfortunately, I managed to screw up something with the BD drive because it would take and eject discs, but they wouldn't show up in the XMB. Pretty sure it's because I accidentally broke the little flap that clamps down the connector ribbon. Then, when I was testing that out, I turned the system off without ejecting the disc first and the system didn't recognize it as in so I had to find another way to get it out. So I had the bright idea to open the BD drive myself since it was out anyway to get the disc out, which turns out is a BAD IDEA. It messes up the hinges that take the disc in, and I haven't found any good info on how to fix that yet.

So yeah, YLOD is fixable but be careful when handling the motherboard and the ribbon clamps on it.

ahh the old ribbon fiasco, I was very careful with that in years past when I had to fix DRE's back in the day (Phat Ps2), like I was disarming a bomb

[mguiddy]

So I was able to fix my YLOD last night. Unfortunately, I managed to screw up something with the BD drive because it would take and eject discs, but they wouldn't show up in the XMB. Pretty sure it's because I accidentally broke the little flap that clamps down the connector ribbon. Then, when I was testing that out, I turned the system off without ejecting the disc first and the system didn't recognize it as in so I had to find another way to get it out. So I had the bright idea to open the BD drive myself since it was out anyway to get the disc out, which turns out is a BAD IDEA. It messes up the hinges that take the disc in, and I haven't found any good info on how to fix that yet.

So yeah, YLOD is fixable but be careful when handling the motherboard and the ribbon clamps on it.
I hesitate to mention it, but I thought I broke my blu ray drive too.
When I was taking the screws out of the box I kept them in, one slipped out of my hand and I thought it went inside my PS3 (it just hit the PS3 and bounced on the floor), so I figured "Hold the loose parts and flip it upside down." I didn't realize the blu ray drive wasn't screwed down so out flopped the blu ray drive and the cable popped out. Luckily I pushed it in, pushed the clip down, and everything was fine.:lol:

Sucks you fixed it only to break it.

[NamPaehc]

yeah the blu ray connection clip is fragile . it snaps on but not as firm as all the others on mine.

[xeex]

My 60GB lasted from July, 2007 to September, 2009. Got the YLOD on Wednesday.

Finally got around to fixing it today using the Gilksy videos, and it's working again. I've kind of lost my faith in the hardware, though, and don't expect this fix to last too long (hopefully through Uncharted 2).

[blitz6speed]

My 60GB lasted from July, 2007 to September, 2009. Got the YLOD on Wednesday.

Finally got around to fixing it today using the Gilksy videos, and it's working again. I've kind of lost my faith in the hardware, though, and don't expect this fix to last too long (hopefully through Uncharted 2).

i would do a full backup, de-activate accounts, and trade it into gamestop while you have a working system. I believe they give you 150 for any ps3 towards a slim. I got tired of defective ps3s from sony back and forth (i was on my 6th refurb) and got a slim myself and its been wonderful.

[EDiddy0042]

I wish everyone else could've had the same luck as I did with fixing their systems. I'm almost two months in on my home-fixed one and it is running as good as day one.

[shadowkast]

All this talk has me afraid of the future on my console (80gig MGS4). I opted and got the 2 yr. extended warranty from walmart. So I got just under two years to return it no questions asked. However my ps3 gets too much daily use out of it. Really tempted to just deactivate all my accounts while I can, trade it in for a slim. Hopefully get $200 store credit and throw my old HDD in the new slim. What'd ya think guys???

I got waaay too much $$$ in gameshares to be lost.

[RedvsBlue]

You won't be able to just install the old hdd in a new system and be good to go. Installing any hdd in the ps3, regardless if it has been in a previous ps3, requires you to reformat the hdd.

[shadowkast]

You won't be able to just install the old hdd in a new system and be good to go. Installing any hdd in the ps3, regardless if it has been in a previous ps3, requires you to reformat the hdd.
yeah i understand that thanx. just meant throwing my 320hdd in the slim rather than keeping the 120.

[NamPaehc]

Is there any way this could be tied to the harddrive? I could hear mine spinning away in there, didn't notice that before.

[motorcitydice]

Seriously thinking of trying to fix it myself. Got the YLOD yesterday and I don't have the extra cash to send it in to get a refurbished unit.

[Ecofreak]

Seriously thinking of trying to fix it myself. Got the YLOD yesterday and I don't have the extra cash to send it in to get a refurbished unit.

Give it a shot since you really don't have anything to lose. Even if you break it more, it'll still cost $150 for Sony to repair it so there's really no disincentive not to try. Just make sure you get a good heat gun and be careful!

[EDiddy0042]

Give it a shot since you really don't have anything to lose. Even if you break it more, it'll still cost $150 for Sony to repair it so there's really no disincentive not to try. Just make sure you get a good heat gun and be careful!

Agreed. The heat gun is absolutely essential in the process, as you need to get the board heated up enough.

Also, for the heat adhesive, I would like to recommend using arctic silver 5. You can get a tube at radioshack for roughly $5.00. That is the brand that I used and 2 1/2 months later my 60 gb is still running great.

[motorcitydice]

Give it a shot since you really don't have anything to lose. Even if you break it more, it'll still cost $150 for Sony to repair it so there's really no disincentive not to try. Just make sure you get a good heat gun and be careful!

I repaired it myself with no problems at all... just a few differences to the hardware that was on the YouTube video. Thanks OP, this really encouraged me to DIY.

I wrote a pretty detailed write up on my experience in my CAG blog. Be sure to check them out!

Part 1: The diagnosis
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/blog.php?b=10730

Part 2: The solution
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/blog.php?b=10811

If you need me, I'll be probably be playing my freshly repaired PS3. :D

[EDiddy0042]

I repaired it myself with no problems at all... just a few differences to the hardware that was on the YouTube video. Thanks OP, this really encouraged me to DIY.

I wrote a pretty detailed write up on my experience in my CAG blog. Be sure to check them out!

Part 1: The diagnosis
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/blog.php?b=10730

Part 2: The solution
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/blog.php?b=10811

If you need me, I'll be probably be playing my freshly repaired PS3. :D

Congrats on the fix! Keep us posted on how it holds up.

[EDiddy0042]

Just wanted to update, my PS3 crashed again (while playing Fallout again, nonetheless) on Saturday evening. The repair process didn't take nearly as long as it did the first time, and I got it all fixed up and back together again in a little over an hour following the video I posted on here. The first time it lasted about 2 1/2 months, so I'm hoping it can last that long again. If it craps out every 2 months or so, I'll just keep it as I enjoy taking it apart and putting it back together.

[NamPaehc]

Just wanted to update, my PS3 crashed again (while playing Fallout again, nonetheless) on Saturday evening. The repair process didn't take nearly as long as it did the first time, and I got it all fixed up and back together again in a little over an hour following the video I posted on here. The first time it lasted about 2 1/2 months, so I'm hoping it can last that long again. If it craps out every 2 months or so, I'll just keep it as I enjoy taking it apart and putting it back together.

I saw a fluxing video on youtube, says you need to add it after the 2-3 repair. I'll try and find it later, but if you plan to keep fixing it you might have to invest in some of that too from every other repair or so. Not to sure what it even is... Think it helps fill gaps in soldering?

>>>here it is (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZRReDIHTe0).

[EDiddy0042]

^ That's completely new to me. I appreciate your posting it, and I will definitely look into locating some flux next time my system craps out.

BTW, do you happen to know which system that motherboard is from? I don't think the 60 gb systems have that gold plating around the outside. Just curious if you knew whether it was an 80 gb or one of the newer models?

[pinoyunggoy]

My PS3 YLOD'd on me last night when I was playing uncharted 2. I'm not much of a handyman, so i think fixing it myself is out of the question. What do you guys think of sending it to an ebay repair service? I just want my game saves back dammit =(

[EDiddy0042]

Do you still have your sony warranty on the system? If so, I would highly recommend sending it back to them. If not, I don't know what to recommend as far as ebay sellers, but if you are thinking of picking up a new system and you just want your game data off your current system, you might try removing the HD from your system and hooking it up to your computer, and then transferring the data to your pc til you get a new one. I don't know how that is done, but a buddy of mine informed me that it could be done with a special cable of some kind. Just a thought.

[jonlubbe]

If you are thinking of picking up a new system and you just want your game data off your current system, you might try removing the HD from your system and hooking it up to your computer, and then transferring the data to your pc til you get a new one. I don't know how that is done, but a buddy of mine informed me that it could be done with a special cable of some kind. Just a thought.

Does not work at all, the files on the drive are encrypted to the point where a pc does not see the drive data at all. (trust me)

the drives are standard 2.5 inch sata drives which are readable by computers, but the file system is not at all readable by computers.

[NamPaehc]

Yeah not sure what you should do. I think I saw some people selling their Ps3's on craig's list. Saw one for $150 that was also yellowed. Maybe check there too.

If you do decided to work on it yourself with a friend maybe, the PS3 does look intimidating until you get it opened up. They did a good job with separating all the key components so once you get an understanding of the different layers via guides and what not, it isn't to tough. Just take your time, study up/watch videos, and make sure you have all the proper tools ahead of time.

[EDiddy0042]

agreed w/ NamPaehc- once you get the outer shells off of the board and pull away the power supply and disc drive, it really is quite simplistic.

jonlubbe, thanks for clearing that up. I had never tried it before, so I wasn't sure how or even if it would work.

[jonlubbe]

jonlubbe, thanks for clearing that up. I had never tried it before, so I wasn't sure how or even if it would work.

Sadly, that knowledge was gained from personal experience.

now on ps3 #4 and (hopefully) final!

[Brad Bishop]

I have a 60GB PS3. I've noticed the fan running more often lately and I even blew out the dust (surprisingly not much there). If this is a common failure I'm going to be pretty annoyed. $500 for 2 years of a game console ($250/yr) is pretty crappy. If mine bombs I may just sell the remaining games online and give up. I don't see spending another $150 - $300 to get a repair or another replacement console.

[starmask2k3]

have there been any ps3 deaths with the 80gb bc models? ive been doing what i can to clear it out of dust but i get that feeling i could clean it better by opening it up. also when you send in a bc console to get repaired and get a refurb is it still the same kind of system like if you send in a 60gb you will get another 60gb jut not yours?

my BC 80GB did

[NamPaehc]

Yeah the issue in the older style is so deep down in there, it makes me wonder if the ventilation system can really do enough on its own to get that core heat out of there and keep this from happening in time with all of them

[boot_seque]

hey fella's, 80 Gig PS3 on the bench 4 times in 3 weeks. i came here looking for more info on how this can be repaired more effectively. looks like it's a crap shoot, but i'm getting so fast at this now it hardly matters.

two observations about my ps3 internals i want to share are:

1: the heat sink finish is no where near as polished as i expected. it looks like a piece of wood (ring shaped pattern) idea to fix this is to use some wet dry sand paper with cutting oil to polish this heat sink up to take out the grooves.
keep in mind there are two heat sinks, one for the cell processor and one for the "emotion engine"?? (sound right?) which covers the emulation and processing of ps2 and ps1 games.
the heat sink with the grooves is mated to the emotion chip responsible for backwards compatibility.

2: the paste from the emotion chip is dried up, and looks to have air pockets when lifted away. i swear this is the cause of the YLOD in this ps3. anyone else see this sort of craftsmanship issue when opening there ps3?

i have used arctic silver paste as well as rosewill "paint on" thermal grease which is rated for 240 C as opposed to arctic silver at 180 C.

i will try the flux tonight and see how that goes for longevity.
will also polish this H S and see how that goes.

other thoughts...
i wonder if i only pull the battery on this thing for 20 minutes if it fires back up. i have scorched the hell out of this board once and then the second time i barely gave it heat at all. no difference in how long the thing stays up and running. reflow usually good for about 20 hours of play on this pig.

bought a fan system to pull heat out of it and that did no good at all so peeps, save your money (i know i know, YOU could have told me that)

man on a mission...

[EDiddy0042]

Does anyone here know where I can pick up some of that flux stuff? I'm thinking radioshack or best buy, but I just wanted to check before I ran all the way out to my closest stores.

[NamPaehc]

Does anyone here know where I can pick up some of that flux stuff? I'm thinking radioshack or best buy, but I just wanted to check before I ran all the way out to my closest stores.

Going to have to call around. I know Radioshack has it but maybe not the non-clean/non-abrasive version which is important. I haven't looked into it to much myself, so I don't know how rare that is or even how hard it is to find it in pen/syringe form. Though I do know it is part of soldering so other electric stores might be able to help you like Fry's.

[EDiddy0042]

OK cool. Thanks for the help

[ARog34]

Good thing you got it fixed... I had a terrible dream that it happened to me (*knock on wood*) that I haven't had it happen yet...

[boot_seque]

flux in a pen is like liquid and is what is needed to apply the flux. i tried putting flux on the board last night that is thick like paste, then i "slightly" warmed up the flux until it melted under the cpu (holding the board upright) this got the flux down there, but i wonder if i put too much heat to it because the old pig won't fire up.
trying again...
get a pen!

[boot_seque]

i'm sure now that when i added the flux i used too much heat and pulled some solder out of the joints.
GAME OVER. no re-do's
looking for a PS3!:cry:

[xeex]

My fix lasted 40 days.

Time to crack it open again for round 2.

EDIT: Fixed again with another reflow. Ejected my game, deactivated the system, backed up any unlocked saves, and turned the thing off for good. I highly doubt reflow #2 will last as long as #1 did, so... Slim time.

[motorcitydice]

My 1st reflow lasted almost 1 month. Time to crack it open again.

[motorcitydice]

Revived again. I have a feeling that this PS3 is living on borrowed time. Sad to say that I'll be looking for a Slim after X-mas.

[EDiddy0042]

Revived again. I have a feeling that this PS3 is living on borrowed time. Sad to say that I'll be looking for a Slim after X-mas.

You're not the only one. Mine is running fine as of right now, but I have a bad feeling that before christmas it's gonna bomb again, and if I can't find any flux, I'll be shelling out 300 for a fresh one.

I have a morality question for everyone on here who reads this thread: Despite my system having crashed twice, would I be able to trade it in to gamestop for whatever credit they give and put that towards a new system? I know they only give about 150 if that, but I think that may be better than what I would get for listing a thrice ylod PS3 on CL. Gamestop does issue their own warranty don't they? So they would just fix it up if it went wrong for the next owner? I am prepared to take the glaring stares for this thought, but I may as well ask.

[pinoyunggoy]

I'm getting desperate as MW2 draws near, so I've been researching this fix by reading the gilsky pdf and watching some videos online. I have a couple questions:

What's flux? How do I get that and for how much? When do I apply it and to where? Is that the same thing as arctic silver?

Also, would a soldering pen work? Or should I get a bigger soldering gun/heat gun or whatever it's called?

[formerroadie]

I had a buddy whom this happened to. He's having a hell of a time getting a working one back from sony. They have sent him three so far. I have a refurbished model. I bought it from an online company that sells refurbished ones. It hasn't failed yet (knock on wood). It's a 60GB by the way. It's good to know about this though. I worry about it failing.

[NamPaehc]

I'm getting desperate as MW2 draws near, so I've been researching this fix by reading the gilsky pdf and watching some videos online. I have a couple questions:

What's flux? How do I get that and for how much? When do I apply it and to where? Is that the same thing as arctic silver?

Also, would a soldering pen work? Or should I get a bigger soldering gun/heat gun or whatever it's called?

Flux seems to be used in the soldering process. So a electric store should have some BUT be careful! Gilsky used non-clean/no-clean lead free flux so you don't have to clean the board as well. I don't have any experience with it, just mentioning because of this video which may or may not help keep the system last longer.


Here is that gilsky video where he explains about the re-fluxing process (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZRReDIHTe0).

[pinoyunggoy]

thanks man that video helps a lot. i'm trying to get a hold of a heat gun so i guess i won't need to be applying flux yet. i just want some time to get my game saves, my uncharted 2 disc out, and maybe get some mw2 in

[Inf^Shini]

You're not the only one. Mine is running fine as of right now, but I have a bad feeling that before christmas it's gonna bomb again, and if I can't find any flux, I'll be shelling out 300 for a fresh one.

I have a morality question for everyone on here who reads this thread: Despite my system having crashed twice, would I be able to trade it in to gamestop for whatever credit they give and put that towards a new system? I know they only give about 150 if that, but I think that may be better than what I would get for listing a thrice ylod PS3 on CL. Gamestop does issue their own warranty don't they? So they would just fix it up if it went wrong for the next owner? I am prepared to take the glaring stares for this thought, but I may as well ask.
You're not alone on that thought process bro ;)

Mine YLOD'd a couple days before the Slim launch (oh the irony) and I've noticed a lot of 60GB models have had the same thing happen, which has lead me to follow the conspiracy theory :p.

I did the heatgun fix on my 60GB and traded it in promptly after backing up the HDD, deactivating the account, and so on. I reasoned that instead of paying $150 to receive a refurbed console, I might as well trade it in, get $150 and put it towards the new slim. The fact that I still own a slim PS2 made the decision much easier.

There might be a morality issue for some, but in my mind I was just doing what was needed to alleviate the problem with the most beneficial solution. I don't regret it, I only had to pull another $150 out of my pocket for a new slim, and tbh, I'd rather have the new skinny than the old phatty; It's much more convenient.

If you have any Capcom Saves and/or a Killzone 2 save, be prepared to lose those, they don't carry over to different consoles. With regards to KZ2, only your SP progress will be lost, your MP stats/badges/etc.. are all saved online.

[EDiddy0042]

^^ Good, I'm glad it has crossed other people's minds as well. Fortunately, I don't have KZ2 anymore or any capcom games, so I will be all set if it craps out again.

[pinoyunggoy]

it kinda sucks that rock band doesnt transfer over either. i did a lot of gamesharing with the dlc and now i can't get that anymore unless i message everyone who had it. plus that's a pain to redownload. i'm also sad i'm losing my sf4 and kz2 saves.

[Inf^Shini]

The funny thing about the SF4 save was it forced me to redo everything, and because of that, I ended up getting the platinum. I somehow was better at it redoing all the challenges/online medals :P

[homeslicer]

^ That's completely new to me. I appreciate your posting it, and I will definitely look into locating some flux next time my system craps out.


ebay has some pens for sale. you want kester 951 no clean flux. just follow the gilksy1 video someone posted.

[EDiddy0042]

Well, system is shot... again. Gonna fix it up and take it in to GS tomorrow. Does anyone know if that $25.00 bonus on console trade-ins is still going on? I swear, my system must hate Fallout 3, since that is the game I've had to get out of it all 3 times its crapped out. Oh well. Hope you all have better luck with your systems than I did.

[espy605]

I have a morality question for everyone on here who reads this thread: Despite my system having crashed twice, would I be able to trade it in to gamestop for whatever credit they give and put that towards a new system? I know they only give about 150 if that, but I think that may be better than what I would get for listing a thrice ylod PS3 on CL. Gamestop does issue their own warranty don't they? So they would just fix it up if it went wrong for the next owner? I am prepared to take the glaring stares for this thought, but I may as well ask.

If it's a 60GB model, you may still be able to get $150 or $200 for it on CL, since these models are rare. GameStop DOES issue a warranty on the 60GB model:

http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64006

They actually charge more for it than all the other PS3 models (except the 250GB Slim). 30 day warranty for the new buyer.

[xeex]

I think TRU starts their hardware trade-in program this Friday. They might give more than Gamestop.

[apocrypha]

Need some basic info guys
My 60gb died yesterday during RB2 song doing the blinking yellow to red business, my question is
if I manage to get it running again what do I need to do with my online account so I can redownload the PSN games I purchased and RB songs. I see you guys are deactivating them I just need some clarification on what do so I can put my paid for DLC on my new sys if get one. Also any info on the 3.15 LAN transfer between systems anyone tried it. Thanks SAD in YLOD land.

[metrognome]

Well two nights ago my OG 20GB YLOD'd on me while playing GOW Collection. It is a refurb that I got back from Sony about 1 year after launch (but obviously it was still a launch system) and it has run strong with no problems since then until this. I upgraded the HD to 250 GB at some point as well.

It is weird though I remembered hearing about this but also that its was mostly the 60 GB models. Still it seems there's nothing I can do but try this.

As long as I remove my HD I should not lose any info except what is installed in the PS3 flash drive correct? Also if I end up eventually getting a new slim can I still just put my HD in that one without reformatting/losing data?

I am most def out of warranty so I got nothing to lose by trying. 20-30 bucks for a heatgun and some tubes of goop is better than shelling out $150 to Sony for another refurb. Out of curiousity though, do you think Sony would still send me a 20 GB model or would they just send me a 60 GB since that seems to be what they probably have more of on hand?

[FlipSide]

Well two nights ago my OG 20GB YLOD'd on me while playing GOW Collection. It is a refurb that I got back from Sony about 1 year after launch (but obviously it was still a launch system) and it has run strong with no problems since then until this. I upgraded the HD to 250 GB at some point as well.

It is weird though I remembered hearing about this but also that its was mostly the 60 GB models. Still it seems there's nothing I can do but try this.

Pretty much any PS3 before the slim is susceptible to YLOD though it was mostly on the 60GB model, the 80/40/20GB models are not immune.

As long as I remove my HD I should not lose any info except what is installed in the PS3 flash drive correct? Also if I end up eventually getting a new slim can I still just put my HD in that one without reformatting/losing data?

Nope it doesn't work like that, if you put your old PS3 HDD to another PS3, that PS3 will Prompt you to format that hard drive. The only way to get your data out of that HDD is to get that PS3 working again thru reflow or hope that Sony fixes the same PS3 and send it back to you then you can do a DATA transfer by connecting your PS3's.

I am most def out of warranty so I got nothing to lose by trying. 20-30 bucks for a heatgun and some tubes of goop is better than shelling out $150 to Sony for another refurb. Out of curiousity though, do you think Sony would still send me a 20 GB model or would they just send me a 60 GB since that seems to be what they probably have more of on hand?

I don't know what sony would do, it depends on the real reason of YLOD, 9/10 a YLOD is fixable by reflow..the other times it could be a different reason. Shelling out $150 on Sony fixing your PS3 is almost waste of money. If they fix it, your system will YLOD again in a matter of days or weeks, maybe a couple of months..If they send a refurb is just another system that got a problem and was fixed by sony, same thing applies it is living on borrowed time.

[metrognome]

Reflow it is then. Gotta order the Flux online so I'll have to wait til that gets here, then buy my heatgun.

I have been able to get it working for short bursts if/when I let it cool down so hopefully I can run a data backup in case I end up having to get a new one...

Thanks

[lokizz]

do you have to do the heat gun bit to complete the fix or can you just reapply the thermal compound? i picked up some of that sliver 5 stuff from radio shack( sorry the shack) since alot of people on diff sites and youtube swear by it. has anyone ever just readded thermal paste and gotten it to work? btw thanks for the flux info whoever posted it ill be picking some of that up too once i find some.

also for those of you who have done this a few times for the same console did adding flux help it last longer?

[Neo-Nut]

I'm hoping to just clean up some melted thermal paste and then sell it to somewhere. Right now it just flashes red and I can't get the game out or delete the stock harddrive. I had a 640 gig harddrive in there when it died and I am hoping to put that into the new slim I am going to get. Hopefully all my games, friends, and game saves will show up on the slim when i put the 640 gig hard drive in there. Unfortunately I think I killed my ps3 from having it on like 5-10 hours everyday and having it horizontal for a few months when I got a hd tv in my room. It sucks because it didn't even last 2 years and my original NES that I got with R.O.B. still works. My old saturn and dreamcast still work too, but every sony system I buy dies in less than 3 years.
If i can't get a picture on my system then gamespot probably won't buy it but maybe toys r us would. With no harddrive, a flashing red light, and gta4 in the blu ray drive i doubt it.

[FlipSide]

do you have to do the heat gun bit to complete the fix or can you just reapply the thermal compound? i picked up some of that sliver 5 stuff from radio shack( sorry the shack) since alot of people on diff sites and youtube swear by it. has anyone ever just readded thermal paste and gotten it to work? btw thanks for the flux info whoever posted it ill be picking some of that up too once i find some.

also for those of you who have done this a few times for the same console did adding flux help it last longer?

Heat Gun is a must. Yeah there are other ways to do it like the OVEN method (250 degrees) or as I've heard people using hairdryers? But a heat gun method is safer and more dependable.

The common reason for YLOD is the PS3's Cell CPU's/GPU's is overheating and causing the surrounding solders to crack, reapplying the thermal compound will not fix that crack.

As for Liquid flux, i think it will help preventing YLOD but I don't think it will prevent it completely. My first YLOD fix lasted 4 weeks but thats heavy gaming, 5-6 hrs on workdays and 8-10 hrs on offdays and I think I used too much thermal compound (not as much as Sony did..when I first opened my PS3 it was like an orgy of thermal paste in there). Using the right amount of Thermal compound and adding flux I think will help but another YLOD is not far off.

[CZroe]

Is there a list of repair services offering true solder reballing? I want to find one that will do it with more flexible lead solder. Screw RoHS... no one is licking the board and I don't intend to ever throw it away.

My 60GB launch unit finally gave up the ghost earlier today. When turned on I get a green light and then it suddenly starts flashing red. If I try repeatedly I can sometimes see a flash of yellow just before it blinks red.

It's got a rented disc stuck inside too. :(

[wesdw369]

that sucks man, i have an 80 gig bc system i got off a friend for free i plan to fix once tax returns come in. going to resolder all the spots, redo the paste and play around with it, if youve never messed with solder before i def wouldnt do it myself.

I used to be a plumber so I have plenty of exp with soldering, only problem i have is i have a torch with flux and solder have to wait until i get a solder gun instead. if you do decide to do it yourself remember the smaller the amount the best generally speaking the size of a pea is too much


i had a 40gig crap out on me 1 year and 4 days after purchase took it to some guy and he "fixed it" bring it home it was still blinking, kept taking it back and it was always something new had to be fixed so dont trust those garage specialist

sucks you just bought a game from the rental place what game was it?

[dwg0129]

I was playing Rock Band 3 today and suddenly my ps3 shut off. When I tried to turn it back on I can hear the fan come on but the unit immediately shuts off and the light blinks red. It won't eject the disk even if I turn the switch off and power it back up with the switch pressed. I verified that the hard drive is good. The Unit gets fairly heavy usage between gaming and streaming content. I have the original launch 20 gb unit. Is the repair for these usually the same as the 60 gb? If I do repair it is it even likely to last or is it time to just buy a new unit?

[LottaGames]

If you keep it clean then it shouldn't break. The only reason heat builds up is when dust cakes the fans and heatsinks. Look at your PC if you don't believe me. Sure it's a bit of work but regular maintenance should keep you from buying another PS3.

[blitz6speed]

I was playing Rock Band 3 today and suddenly my ps3 shut off. When I tried to turn it back on I can hear the fan come on but the unit immediately shuts off and the light blinks red. It won't eject the disk even if I turn the switch off and power it back up with the switch pressed. I verified that the hard drive is good. The Unit gets fairly heavy usage between gaming and streaming content. I have the original launch 20 gb unit. Is the repair for these usually the same as the 60 gb? If I do repair it is it even likely to last or is it time to just buy a new unit?

Sony will fix it for 170 or so and send you a refurb 20gb system that only has 3 months warranty and generally is not worth it. They will also offer you a PS3 slim for 150 if you send in your 20 gig, which is a good deal.

[Mr. 420]

Cleaning the console had nothing to do with my blinking red light. I used to clean my console every single day from the outside. The reason mine broke is because i played gta 4 online about 3-6 hours a day, everyday for a year. Dust and dirt had nothing to do with it, the thermal paste is just shitty. I still can't even buy stuff on the video store beacuse i can't deactivate my fat. My copy of gta4 is still stuck in the system, and my system conviniently died minutes after the long awaited gta 4 patch. The thing that really pisses me off is the episodes run like a joke online and the aiming got nerfed. Some guy hit me off my bike in a race the other day and he was literally 20 feet behind me. I can't even stomach the game online and the single player is harder because of the nerfed controls, considering i don't play with autoaim.
Where do i find the screwdriver to open up my machine, i can't find one and don't know the name for the design. My ps3 didn't even last 2 years and i cleaned it everyday.

[UlysisAM]

Just got the YLOD today and will let the system sit unplugged to see if I can get it on just long enough to backup the HDD. Then, I'm going to send it to this site for repair:

http://www.psr1.com/ps3_repair.html

They are cheaper, free return shipping, flat rate, includes all parts and labor, and I am assured I will get my system back with the HDD and not a refurbished replacement.

[twitch673]

I'm sure this was covered on here already, but i don't have time to read through every post. I did Gilksy's fix from his youtube video, and it work excellent for about 2 weeks, then it would just shut off after about 15 min. of playing. I also noticed that the unit seemed very quiet. assuming the fan is not kicking in anymore. i tried a hard restart to see if the fan was working, but i only get 2 beeps instead of 3 when i hold the power button in, and the fan doesn't start. does anyone know of a way to test the fan? I assume it shuts off because it's over heating from the fan not turning on. i want to do everything possible to test it before i take this thing apart again. thanks