How to Fix a PS4 That Won’t Read Discs

As a gaming aficionado, I understand the sheer frustration when your PS4 refuses to read discs, turning your gaming time into a session of worry and vexation. You’re not alone in this plight; this is a common problem many PS4 users experience.

But worry not, there’s often a simple solution to it. Let’s get your PS4 back to reading those discs so you can resume your immersive gaming adventures.

Clean the Disc and the Console

First and foremost, inspect the disc for dust or dirt. Make sure your hands are clean and dry, then use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the disc from the centre outwards.

I can’t emphasize enough the importance of avoiding circular motion, as it can cause more harm than good. If the disc is still unreadable, I recommend you try another disc to rule out the possibility of a faulty disc.

Next, let’s address your PS4 console. Dust buildup can cause your PS4 to stop reading discs. Therefore, cleaning the console regularly is a good practice.

I suggest using canned air to blow dust out of the disc drive, ensuring it’s off and unplugged before proceeding. Avoid inserting anything into the disc slot other than discs; it can cause more damage.

Check for Disc Damage

Scratches, scuffs, and cracks on the disc can also cause reading issues. Examine the disc carefully for any visible damage.

If it’s damaged, unfortunately, there’s not much you can do. Buying a new disc would be the solution in this case.

Reset the System

Should the issue persist, a system reset might be in order. I recommend following these steps:

1. Switch off your PS4 completely.
2. Once the console is off, press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps.
3. Connect your PS4 controller with a USB cable and press the PS button.
4. In the Safe Mode menu, select “Restart PS4” and check if the disc issue is resolved.

If the problem persists after the restart, the option to “Rebuild Database” in the Safe Mode menu may help, though it can take a few hours.

Consider Updating the System Software

In some cases, a PS4 refusing to read discs may be a result of outdated system software. Sony frequently releases updates that enhance system performance, add features, and fix bugs.

I recommend updating your PS4 system software as the next step in your troubleshooting process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Connect your PS4 system to the internet.
2. Go to the function screen, select “Settings” -> “System Software Update.”
3. Your system automatically checks if you have the latest version. If not, you’ll be prompted to download and install the latest update.

Remember, do not turn off your PS4 system during an update; this can cause system issues.

Try a Factory Reset

If your PS4 still refuses to read discs and all the previous solutions have been ineffective, a more drastic step would be to do a factory reset.

Therefore, I strongly recommend backing up any important data before proceeding. Here are the steps to perform a factory reset:

1. Go to the main menu on your PS4 and select “Settings.”
2. Scroll down and select “Initialization.”
3. Select “Initialize PS4,” followed by “Full initialization.”
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

The factory reset should help solve any software glitches that could cause the PS4 not to read discs.

Hardware Issue: Blu-ray Drive

It’s possible that the issue lies in the hardware, specifically the Blu-ray drive. The lens could be dirty or damaged, or there could be a mechanical issue. If you’re confident in your technical skills, you could open your PS4 to check the Blu-ray drive.

However, I advise caution here, as opening your PS4 can void your warranty. Unless you know what you’re doing, I’d suggest seeking help from a professional.

Alternatives: Digital Games and External Drives

While not directly a solution to your disc reading problem, you might want to consider digital games if your PS4 continues to reject discs. With digital games, you avoid potential issues with physical discs or the disc drive. They can be downloaded directly from the PlayStation Store.

Moreover, you can expand your storage with an external hard drive if your PS4’s hard drive is full. A hard drive that’s almost full can slow down your system and cause issues, including trouble reading discs.

Reach out to Sony Support Centre

If none of these steps work, it’s time to reach out to the Sony Support Centre. Your PS4 might need professional servicing, or in the worst-case scenario, a replacement might be necessary.

Take Preventive Measures

Avoid this issue in the future by:

• Keeping your PS4 in a well-ventilated and dust-free area.
• Regularly cleaning the console and disc.
• Handling discs carefully to prevent scratches and cracks.

Conclusion

In summary, the steps to fix a PS4 that won’t read discs involve cleaning the disc and the console, checking for disc damage, resetting the system, and contacting the Sony Support Centre if necessary.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure; taking proper care of your console and discs can help you avoid this problem. Happy gaming!

FAQs

Can a PS4 disc drive be replaced?

Yes, it can, but it should be done by a professional to avoid causing more damage.

Can scratched discs be repaired?

Minor scratches can sometimes be fixed, but deep scratches often mean the disc is beyond repair.

Can I use a disc cleaner on my PS4 discs?

It’s generally safer to stick to a soft, lint-free cloth. Some disc cleaners can damage the disc further.

Does resetting the PS4 delete data?

Choosing the “Restart PS4” option won’t delete data, but other options like “Initialize PS4” will, so proceed with caution.