The first step towards troubleshooting your Nintendo Switch is actually knowing what’s troubling the console, and if it comes with a specific error code, you’re already half way towards solving it. Now, Nintendo has a simple error code structure that has been passed on from the previous generation, we covered some of them in our Nintendo 3DS Error Codes article, so if you’ve owned one before, the below steps will not be foreign. Before we dig in to the exact codes and how to solve them, let us first cover the basics steps towards solving any minor issue with your console.
What Are the First Steps Towards Solving Most Nintendo Switch Issues?
As with every other gadget out there, there’s a set of steps that you can take to get your device back on its feet, and it usually starts of with checking the cables, reseting the console, updating the firmware and, if available, making sure that the service you’re trying to use is actually online. Let’s start of with the cables.
- Restart your Nintendo Switch. Some common bugs develop if the system has been kicking for a while, and to solve them you need to restart your device. To do that, you need to press and hold the power button, located on the upper left corner of your console, and hold it for three seconds until the power options menu pops-up. Once shown on the streen, just press the “Turn Off” option and the device will shut down. Bring it back to life with the same approach and test if the error code troubling you shows up again. If that doesn’t work, then;
- Check your cables and connectors. Depending on the issue at hand, it might be that some cables are not connected well or broken, or your connectors accumulated dirt in them which doesn’t let the data pass. Be sure to clean up your connectors with a cotton bud and 70% isopropyl alcohol, after which try to replace the cables that you think are causing the issue. Luckily the Switch is easy, there’s just a USB C power cable, Ethernet port and HDMI cable that you need to replace.
- Update the software. Users usually forget that you can not only update the Switch software, but also update specific games.
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- If a game is giving you trouble, try to update the specific title by going to its icon, pressing the + or – button on your controller and selecting Software Update followed by Via the Internet. Some games have their own internal set of error codes, like Ninjala, and this guide doesn’t cover them.
- If the OS is giving you trouble, go to System, then click on System Update and follow the on-screen instructions. If both of these solutions didn’t work, then;
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- Soft reset your Nintendo Switch. This process is similar to restarting your device, but before you start be sure to take out your SD Card from the device. Once that’s out of the way, just reach that power button again, but this time hold it for 15 seconds, release it, wait for a few seconds, then short press the power button to turn the device on. Once the loading screen passes the logo it will boot up again. If that doesn’t work, then;
- Hard reset your Nintendo Switch and delete all data. This is your last resolve and includes a factory reset of the console that removes all your data from the device. Before you commit, be sure that all your save files and games as located on your SD Card or backed up on the cloud. Remove the SD Card and turn off your device. If your system is not responsive, then wait until the battery dies out. Press the Power button together with the Volume UP and Volume DOWN, then wait for the maintenance screen to show up. Once there, click on the Initialize Console option and follow the steps to fully reset the console. Once back, log in to your account, place your SD card back and download all your data again. If that didn’t fix your issue, then your last bet is to;
- Contact Nintendo Support. Your console needs immediate repair. Contact Nintendo Support to begin the process.
Nintendo Switch Hardware Related Error Codes
Below is a list of error codes that are tied to hardware, these are usually bad news and if you can’t solve them by following the basics steps from our intro, then the only solution is to send them back for repairs.
Error Code 2153-0321
Explaining the error code 2153-0321: The code 2153-0321 indicates that your Nintendo Switch has suffered an audio hardware issue and the internal speakers will not work.
Solving the error code 2153-0321: The code can be solved by turning off the Mute volume when headphones are unplugged setting, though users report that it doesn’t work for everyone. Additionally, you can keep your headphones plugged in while using your console.
If the issue persists: The only way to permanently get rid of this error is to send your console for repair. Call Nintendo Support or start an online Repair Request at their website.
Error Code 2168-0002
Explaining the error code 2168-0002: The code 2168-0002 indicates that your Nintendo Switch has crashed due to corrupted hardware or the use of pirated content.
Solving the error code 2168-0002: The code can be solved by firstly checking for and deleting any pirated content. If there’s none, try restarting or resetting your console, then update its firmware to the latest one.
Error Code 2115-0096
Explaining the error code 2115-0096: The code 2115-0096 indicates that your Nintendo Switch has an issue accepting your Amiibo figure.
Solving the error code 2115-0096: The code may be solved by initially checking if your console is running the latest system software, and if it isn’t, by going to System Settings > System > System Update to upgrade. If you’re using the right Joy-Con, check if it’s working correctly and clear the NFC touchpoint from obstructions. Do the same if you’re using a Pro Controller or a Switch Lite. Additionally, reset the Amiibo data by going to System Settings > Amiibo > Reset amiibo and follow the on-screen instructions.
If the issue persists: Try testing the Amiibo on another console or testing a second Amiibo on yours. If the Amiibo works on the second console, your devices will need repair since the NFC chip is not working as it should. If the second Amiibo works fine, then the original Amiibo needs replacement.
Error Code 2153-1540
Explaining the error code 2153-1540: The code 2153-1540 indicates a potential or ongoing hardware issue affecting your Nintendo Switch.
Solving the error code 2153-1540: The code may be solved by firstly restarting your console by holding the POWER button for 15 seconds. After restarting it, check if you’re running the latest system software. If you’re running version 1.0.0, perform an update if possible.
If the issue persists: Your console needs immediate repair. Contact Nintendo Support to begin the process.
Error Code 2139-0006
Explaining the error code 2139-0006: The code 2139-0006 indicates a critical hardware issue affecting your Nintendo Switch, and it can’t be solved through normal tricks like resetting the device.
Solving the error code 2139-0006: The code can only be solved by contacting Nintendo Support as soon as you can and sending your console for repair.
General Nintendo Switch Error Codes
These codes are usually minor inconveniences that can be solved easily through restarts, updates and similar steps.
Error Code 2162-0002
Explaining the error code 2162-0002: The code 2162-0002 indicates that your Nintendo Switch’s software has crashed due to an unknown issue.
Solving the error code 2162-0002: The code may be solved by initially rebooting your console by pressing and holding the POWER button and selecting Power Options > Restart. If you can’t restart it that way, force a shutdown by holding down the POWER button until it shuts down. Next, verify if you have the latest system software and perform an update if you don’t.
If the issue persists: Check that your accessories and controllers have a legitimate license. If they are fine and you still get the error after updating your system, contact Nintendo Support.
Error Code 2813-6838
Explaining the error code 2813-6838: The code 2813-6838 indicates that there’s an issue processing your Nintendo eShop Card code.
Solving the error code 2813-6838: The error may be solved by initially checking if you entered the code correctly. Some cards suffer an activation delay, so wait 24 hours and try again. Additionally, contact your retailer to check if the activation had no issues.
If the issue persists: Contact Nintendo Support to see if they can fix the problem for you.
Error Code 2813-6561
Explaining the error code 2813-6561: Similar to the above error code, 2813-6561 indicates an issue when trying to redeem a Nintendo eShop card or download code.
Solving the error code 2813-6561: The error can be solved firstly by checking if you entered the code as it appears on the card. If the system still refuses it, it may not work for your region. To confirm this, contact your retailer and verify if both your game and code’s regions match. If they do and you still can’t redeem it, it’s possible the code only works within the game instead of the Nintendo eShop.
If the issue persists: There might be an error with the code or card, so contact Nintendo Support for further assistance.
Error Code 2801-7199
Explaining the error code 2801-7199: The code 2801-7199 indicates an issue with the uploading of images on Facebook.
Solving the error code 2801-7199: The code may be solved by initially by unlinking and relinking your Facebook account from your Nintendo account. If the upload still doesn’t work, check your Facebook account’s permissions to allow your Nintendo Switch to post images.
If the issue persists: There might be a temporary service issue, so wait before trying again.
Error Code 2124-4009
Explaining the error code 2124-4009: The code 2124-4009 indicates that your Nintendo Switch has suffered a general functionality issue.
Solving the error code 2124-4009: The code can be solved by firstly performing a reboot and checking if your console is running the latest system software. If it isn’t, update it. In addition, visit the Nintendo Network Status page to see whether there are any service outages. If so, wait for the service to return to normal and try again.
If the issue persists: After discarding any service issues, your console likely needs repair. Send a Repair Request to begin the process.
Error Code 2124-4517
Explaining the error code 2124-4517: The code 2124-4517 indicates that Nintendo has banned your Switch due to a breach of the user agreements.
Solving the error code 2124-4517: If the code isn’t fixed by itself after a reasonable amount of time, you should contact Nintendo Support at once and request an appeal. Otherwise, you won’t be able to connect to any online service.
Error Code 2181-4017
Explaining the error code 2181-4017: The code 2181-4017 indicates that your Nintendo Switch has been banned from all online services due to a breach of the user agreements.
Solving the error code 2181-4017: If the code doesn’t solve itself within minutes or a few hours, you should contact Nintendo Support to appeal your case.
Error Code 2124-4007
Explaining the error code 2124-4007: Similar to the one above, the code 2124-4007 indicates that Nintendo has permanently banned your Switch from all online services due to a breach of the Terms of Service.
Solving the error code 2124-4007: You will only be able to solve code 2124-4007 by contacting Nintendo Support immediately and requesting an appeal.
Error Code 2124-3080
Explaining the error code 2124-3080: The code 2124-3080 indicates that online matchmaking isn’t available for your Nintendo Switch.
Solving the error code 2124-3080: The code has no solution. Possibly, Nintendo hasn’t yet set up the online multiplayer service in your country or region.
Error Code 2813-0055
Explaining the error code 2813-0055: The code 2813-0055 indicates that your download code has expired or the content you want to download hasn’t yet been released to the public.
Solving the error code 2813-0055: The code can be solved firstly by checking the code’s information to discard its expiration. If it hasn’t expired yet and belongs to the same region as your account, simply wait for the content’s release time and try again.
Error Code 2813-1470
Explaining the error code 2813-1470: The code 2813-1470 indicates that the eShop has rejected your credit card as a working payment method.
Solving the error code 2813-1470: The code can be solved by initially verifying that the card information is correct. If it doesn’t work, delete the saved card data and set it up again or try at a later time.
If the issue persists: Your credit card may have a problem, so you’ll have to contact your bank or card company to fix it. In the meantime, you can try another payment method like PayPal or a Nintendo eShop Card.
Error Code 2813-0040
Explaining the error code 2813-0040: The code 2813-0040 indicates that the download code you’re trying to use has been redeemed already.
Solving the error code 2813-0040: The code may be solved by looking for any input errors first. If you’ve already tried redeeming the code, go to the HOME Menu and see if the content is being downloaded. In addition, check if the content is available for redownload, or try to redeem the code again if it isn’t.
If the issue persists: Read the Support page about problems with download codes. You may have to contact your retailer to get additional information about the code.
Error Code 2005-0005
Explaining the error code 2005-0005: The code 2005-0005 indicates data corruption in your Nintendo Switch.
Solving the error code 2005-0005: If the code 2005-0005 occurs when you start the console, power it off and start it in Maintenance Mode. Select Initialize Console Without Deleting Save Data and try to update your system software. If the error happens when updating software, you’ll have to check for corrupt data. Go to System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software, select the one you were updating, and choose to Check for Corrupt Data.
If the issue persists: Delete the software and redownload it. Additionally, remove your SD card —if you’re using one— and download the software directly to the internal memory. If you can’t solve the problem, you may have to send your console for repair.
Error Code 2005-0004
Explaining the error code 2005-0004: The code 2005-0004 indicates that your Nintendo Switch has corrupted data.
Solving the error code 2005-0004: The code can be solved by firstly installing the latest system update. If you’re using a microSD card, try switching to a new one, as it’s likely to be the source of data corruption. In addition, you can format it by going to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Format microSD Card. If you don’t want to format it, you can remove it and download the software to the internal memory. If it works, you should replace your microSD card.
If the issue persists: The problem likely lies in the console’s internals, so you’ll have to begin a repair process.
Error Code 2124-0291
Explaining the error code 2124-0291: The code 2124-0291 indicates an issue with the transfer of a user account to another Nintendo Switch.
Solving the error code 2124-0291: The code may be solved by firstly ensuring that the user account you’re trying to transfer isn’t linked to the second console. If so, unlink the account and begin the transfer again, following these steps.
End of the Nintendo Error Codes list
That’s all from us, we hope this list helped you in solving the issues with your console, and if there’s a specific trick or suggestion that we left out, be sure to ping us in the comments or on Facebook and we’ll add it to the list.