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My PS2 Won't Boot Up Into a Game

If your PS2 is no longer booting games or reading game discs, the problem is likely a bad laser. Like all laser-based devices, such as CD and DVD players, the laser in a PS2 can break down over time. Once the laser breaks down, the device can no longer read the data on the game discs, and your games will not boot. Replacing the laser with a new one will get your PS2 working again and save you the expense of buying an entirely new console.

Things You'll Need

Phillips screwdriver
Replacement laser
Flat head screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Disconnect your PS2 from the wall outlet. Disconnect the power cable and A/V cable from the back of the device. Lay the PS2 facedown on a table with the front facing you.
- 2
  Use a flat head screwdriver to pry off the rubber screw covers along the bottom of the PS2. The covers are located along the edges of the device. There are eight covers in total. While you are at it, peel off the warranty sticker on the left side of the device, next to the main power switch.
- 3
  Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the eight screws holding the top cover in place.
- 4
  Turn the PS2 over and carefully lift the top cover off of the main body of the device. Start by prying up the half near the power switch and slowly working the top cover up and off. The top cover will still be attached by the power cord. Unclip the cord from the corner retaining clip on the top cover. Set the top cover aside.
- 5
  Remove the four screws holding the disk drive lid in place. The disk drive is located in the left half of the device. Lift the cover off of the disk drive.
- 6
  Remove the two screws holding the disk drive in place and slide the entire drive out of the PS2 housing, giving you access to the laser.
- 7
  Remove the two screws holding the laser guide rails in place. Disconnect the ribbon cable from the laser. Lift the ends of the guide rails up and slide the laser off of the guide rails.
- 8
  Slide your new laser onto the guide rails. Reconnect the ribbon cable to the new laser. Replace the guide rail screws.
- 9
  Reassemble your PS2 by reversing the previous steps. Reconnect the device to the power outlet and your TV. Insert a game disc and verify the new laser is working. Your game should boot up right away.

PlayStation 2