Repairing a PS3 Disc Read Error at Home

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If you your PS3 has suddenly been showing a disc read error upon start up, there are a few different options you can try before sending the unit into Sony for repairs. If your unit is still under warranty, you may want to send the unit straight in for repairs if you see a disc read error, since you will do not want to do anything that may void the warranty. However, if you are past the warranty maintenance period, sending your unit to Sony can be costly as well as time consuming process, as you will spend a minimum of $150 on any repairs after the warranty has expired and will often have to wait over a month for the unit to be repaired.

Generally disc read errors are caused by buildup of dust and dirt in the PS3 unit, and in particular on the blu-ray lens. Disc read errors can also be caused by scratches on individual discs, so one of your first steps in troubleshooting the problem will be to determine whether the problem is with the discs themselves or with the console. If you PS3 can read some discs, but not others, it is likely an issue with individual discs. You should try to clean the problematic discs carefully and then see if they work in the unit (very badly scratched discs may need to be disposed of completely). However, if you PS3 cannot read any of your PS3 discs, then it is likely a problem with the PS3 console itself.

One simple at home solution to repair the disc read problem for a console is by using a can of compressed air to blow air into the vents of the unit in order to clean out some of the dust particles inside the unit. You can also purchase a blu-ray lens cleaner for additional help with cleaning the internal lens components.

However, if cleaning the discs and the laser do not appear to work, then it is likely that the laser itself needs to be adjusted - or in worst case scenario, replaced completely. These adjustments can also be made at home, with the help of a good PS3 repair guide, although they are slightly more complicated that the solutions presented above. However, given the expense and time involved with sending your PS3 into Sony for repairs, you may find this is still the best option for repairing your PS3 disc error problem.

Review Feature Office 2010