The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular video game consoles on the market. However, like any gadget, it can run into problems. One of the most common issues is when the Nintendo Switch won’t turn on. Don’t panic – in many cases, this problem can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps.
Confirm the Battery is Charged
The first thing to check is whether the battery is charged. The Nintendo Switch comes with a USB-C AC adapter that is used to charge the device.
Steps to check the battery:
- Plug the AC adapter directly into the Nintendo Switch, not the docking station.
- Leave it charging for at least 2-3 hours even if the battery icon shows its full. This ensures the battery is completely recharged.
- While connected to the charger, press the power button on the top console to see if it turns on.
- If the battery was completely depleted, it may take up to 30 minutes of charging before the console will turn back on.
If the console won’t turn on even after being plugged into the charger for an extended period, then the battery may need to be replaced.
Try Different Power Sources
If the battery is charged but the Switch still won’t power on, the next step is to try different power sources.
Test with the following power sources:
- The included AC adapter connected directly to the console, not the dock.
- A different USB-C cable in case the included one is faulty.
- A wall charger or portable power bank with USB-C output. Make sure it provides at least 15V/2.6A output.
- Dock the Switch into the official docking station and connect the dock to the AC adapter.
The idea is to test the Switch with different power delivery sources to rule them out as the cause of the problem. If it fails to turn on with multiple power sources, then the issue likely lies with the console itself.
Hard Reset the Nintendo Switch
Performing a hard reset can help clear any software bugs that are preventing the Switch from booting up.
To hard reset:
- Hold down the power button on the Switch for at least 12 seconds until the screen goes black and the device shuts down.
- Leave the console shut down for 30 seconds.
- Press the power button again to restart it. This clears any temporary software glitches.
Hard resets are effective at troubleshooting startup issues caused by software bugs or crashing programs. However, they typically won’t fix hardware or battery related problems.
Check for Physical Damage
Carefully inspect the Nintendo Switch for any physical damage that could explain why it’s failing to turn on:
- Look for cracked screens or LCD damage that could disrupt power delivery.
- Check if the microSD card slot or game cartridge reader are broken.
- Examine the USB-C port to make sure it’s clean and undamaged. Debris in the port can prevent a proper connection.
- Press buttons, toggle switches, and analog sticks to confirm they provide tactile feedback and aren’t jammed.
- Check the game cartridge and microSD slots for dust, dirt or debris blockage.
Physical damage can prevent the Switch from receiving appropriate power input even when it’s plugged in. Send it in for professional repair if physical damage is detected.
Attempt to Boot in Recovery Mode
Recovery mode is an emergency state the Nintendo Switch can boot into to recover from major software failures.
To enter recovery mode:
- Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time for 3-5 seconds.
- Keep holding the buttons down until the “maintenance mode” screen appears.
From recovery mode, you can update the system firmware or initialize the console (factory reset). This can fix software issues blocking startup.
However, if recovery mode doesn’t work, it indicates a hardware problem rather than a software glitch.
Contact Nintendo Support
If you’ve tried all other troubleshooting tips but the Nintendo Switch still won’t power on, then it’s time to contact Nintendo support:
- Chat or call Nintendo support. They can help diagnose the specific issue over the phone.
- Arrange sending the console in for professional repair under warranty.
- If the warranty is expired, you will have to pay for Nintendo to repair the device.
Nintendo has specialized tools and techniques for troubleshooting Switch hardware problems not accessible by regular users. Getting professional help is the best solution if you’ve run out of self-fix options.
When to Give Up and Buy a New Nintendo Switch
If the Nintendo Switch is no longer under warranty and the repair costs quoted are nearly as much as buying a new console, then it ultimately makes sense to just purchase a new one.
Consider replacing your Switch if:
- Repair costs are estimated over $100+ and warranty is voided.
- You have already attempted all self-fixes with no success.
- Buying a new Switch or the updated OLED model is comparable in price to the repair cost.
Know when to cut your losses. In some cases, getting a new console is the most cost-effective solution.
Recap Of Troubleshooting Steps
To summarize, here are the steps to systematically troubleshoot and try to fix a Nintendo Switch that won’t turn on:
- Confirm battery is charged and Switches charging when plugged in.
- Try different power sources like the official AC adapter, USB-C cables, third party chargers, and docking station.
- Hard reset the Switch by holding down the power button.
- Check for physical damage like cracked screen or broken ports.
- Boot into recovery mode to update firmware and factory reset.
- If still not working, contact Nintendo support for professional diagnosis and repair options.
- Buy a new Nintendo Switch if repair costs exceed replacement cost.
Following these troubleshooting tips can help identify and fix the cause of a Nintendo Switch failing to power on in many cases. But for difficult hardware failures, seeking Nintendo support or buying a new console may be needed.
