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How to Repair Error Codes in the XBox 360

Xbox 360 game machines freeze and show red-ring errors when hardware failures happen, usually after long game-play sessions. High internal temperatures could harm your Xbox 360 video game console, causing freezing and red-ring errors. If your 360 console begins freezing and/or gives you red-ring error messages during use, repair methods you can use to fix your 360 are simple and tutorials are available online (you will inspect internal hardware).

Things You'll Need

Torx screwdriver (Size 7)
Thermal paste

Instructions

- 1
  
  Overheating your Xbox 360's internal components can cause heat stress and red light errors.
  
  When your Xbox 360 plays a video game disc, the console's hardware components can become very hot. Heat-related stress will cause red-ring errors in the Xbox 360 and it is recommended that you keep your gaming sessions under one hour (maximum) so that your machine can cool down. The RAM, CPU and GPU chips inside the Xbox 360 take time to cool off (about 15 minutes). Your Xbox 360 console may perform better under lower temperatures and not display red-ring lights.
- 2
  
  Solder damage can be avoided by using an even layer of thermal paste.
  
  The high temperatures associated with longer sessions of gaming can damage your Xbox 360. The Xbox consoles are manufactured with an internal fan, but it does not totally remedy overheating problems. High internal temperatures can damage the solder that connects the RAM, CPU and GPU chips to the Xbox 360's motherboard. Increased heat stress can be prevented by unscrewing the Xbox's casing and applying an even layer of thermal paste on the top of the chips (CPU and GPU) under their heatsinks. Doing this creates more efficient heat radiation and reverses red-ring error messages in the Xbox 360 console.
- 3
  
  The Torx screws in your Xbox 360 need to be removed to open the machine.
  
  Use a size 7 Torx screwdriver to remove the screws underneath your Xbox's case. Slide it open and examine the hardware components inside the console's case. Locate the CPU and GPU (large metal heatsinks sit directly on top of them), remove the protective metal heatsinks and place a small dab of thermal paste on top of each chip. Make sure to apply the paste evenly across the whole surface of the chip. Replace the chips' heatsinks, screws, and your console's casing and then power on your 360. The red rings will no longer be displayed and the console should operate normally as long as there is no heat stress inside the machine and your new thermal paste conducts heat between the chips and their heatsinks.

Xbox 360