Why Does My DSi Turn Off by Itself?

Basic Power Use

• You can keep track of your battery levels by watching the three indicator lights in the upper left corner of your system. The light on the far left indicates that the system is connected to a wireless network. The light at the far right is the power indicator. When the light is blue you're still operating with a full or partial charge; when it turns red, your battery is low and needs to be recharged. The middle light is on when your DSi is plugged into the wall.

Battery Problems

• Your battery may not be charging due to improper seating inside the system; this is especially likely if you have recently changed your battery or dropped the DSi, which can loosen the battery's seating. When checking your battery, make sure that the positive/negative sides are lined up correctly -- the positive/negative sides will be marked on both the battery port and the battery itself. Check that the metal connections on both the battery and the DSi are clean, clear of obstruction and pressed firmly together when you place your battery.

  If the orange charging light is blinking, this indicates that your battery is not charging. Rechargeable batteries also gradually lose their charge; if you've had your DSi for some time, you may need a new one. The battery may also lose function if you've spilled liquid on your DSi; any liquid can corrode the connection on the batteries. Nintendo offers instructions for replacing your battery at Nintendo.com/consumer/systems/dsi/en_na/battery_replace.jsp.

Hardware Issues

• Check that your power button isn't stuck and causing the system to shut down; if you've spilled soda or other sticky liquids on the DSi, it can cause the buttons to stick. Nintendo recommends using a clean and dry toothbrush to scrub at the buttons and remove debris. If the indicator light on your DSi is blue when it shuts down, and if the battery is seated properly, you may be facing a hardware problem. If significant amounts of fluid got inside your DSi and did not dry properly it may have corroded the internal hardware, which will need to be repaired. It's best to avoid using your DSi around large bodies of water or in your bathroom.

  If you do drop your DSi in liquid, promptly remove the battery and dry the device using a can of compressed air or vacuum. Once most of the liquid is gone, submerge the device and battery in a bowl of dry white rice overnight to help draw out and absorb the rest of the liquid. Do not use a microwave, oven or hair dryer to dry out your DSi; the heat can damage internal components and adhesives.

Repairing Your DSi

• You can handle certain repairs such as cleaning the exterior and replacing a faulty battery. For other issues, especially those that are undiagnosed, you will need to contact Nintendo for repairs. Any damage caused by your negligence or by accident is not covered by your warranty and will cost you a repair fee; other damages may be covered by your warranty. You can contact Nintendo for help by phone at 1-800-255-3700, as of July 2011.