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How to Fix the Playstation 3 Light of Death

The PlayStation 3 light of death is a flashing red or yellow light that indicates a major problem with your machine. Normally, the light of death requires you to pack up your PlayStation and return it to the manufacturer for repair. This costs upwards of $150. However, there are several simple things you can try that may fix your machine without having to send it off to get repaired.

Things You'll Need

Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug all the cables to your machine and plug them back in. Try to operate the machine normally again.
- 2
  Turn off and restart your machine three times after letting it cool down. This may also fix the problem.
- 3
  Remove and replace your hard drive. To do this, turn off and unplug the PlayStation. Turn the unit around and remove the plastic cover marked "HDD." Remove the blue screw, and using the metal handle, take out the hard drive. Wait for a few minutes to make sure the unit has cooled and replace the drive by putting it in and screwing in the blue screw. Replace the plastic cover. If this does not work, you will have to try one of two paid options.
- 4
  Buy an online tutorial for a do-it-yourself PlayStation fix (see Resources) or return your system to the manufacturer for an official repair. The online tutorial comes with DVDs and an eBook, and was created by a former PlayStation repair technician. As of March 2011, the price for the tutorial is $37.

PlayStation 3