Nintendo 3DS hangs - you can do that
If your Nintendo 3DS hangs more often while playing or in the menu, this can have various causes. You can fix some, but unfortunately not all, yourself. We have summarized the most important tips for you in this article.
Nintendo 3DS hangs on: The most important tips
If the Nintendo 3DS freezes, the first thing you should do is turn it off and then on again and see if the problem recurs more often.
- If the Nintendo 3DS can no longer be switched off normally, you can hold down the power button for a few seconds. It should then go out completely without input via the touchscreen.
- If this does not work, simply wait until the battery of the 3DS has completely discharged and the device goes out on its own.
- Alternatively, you can briefly remove the battery from the device and reinsert it. However, you need a suitable screwdriver for this.
Nintendo 3DS hangs on: Update firmware
Errors in the firmware of the Nintendo 3DS can cause the mini console to freeze again and again. Therefore, you should always install all available system updates.
- Connect the Nintendo 3DS to the mains, otherwise the update cannot be carried out.
- Turn on the Nintendo 3DS and open the system settings.
- Touch General Settings.
- Go to page four and select "System Update".
- If your Nintendo 3DS is not yet connected to the Internet, you now need to connect.
- Tap "Accept" and wait for the update to download and install completely.
Set up the SD card again if the Nintendo 3DS hangs
In many cases, problems with the SD card used are responsible for the error. Then it helps if you replace the card with another one or reformat the existing card.
- To format the SD card, Nintendo recommends the free program SDFormatter. However, you can also easily use the Windows formatting function. In both cases you need a suitable reader for the SD card.
- If you format the card, remember to save all saved data beforehand, otherwise they will be lost.
Reset Nintendo 3DS to factory settings
If the previous steps do not help, reset your device to the factory settings. Save all your data before this step.
- Turn on the Nintendo 3DS.
- Open the "System Settings".
- Touch General Settings.
- Go to page four and select the "Format" option. Confirm the message by tapping "Format".
Have a defective Nintendo 3DS repaired
If you cannot solve the problem on your own, you should have the 3DS repaired. To do this, they first contact Nintendo, which is possible both by phone and by email. If your device still has a guarantee, the repair is usually free of charge - otherwise you have to pay for it.
What to do if your Nintendo 3DS stops working, read the next practical tip.