7 Common PS5 Issues & How to Fix Them

The PS5 is a fast and powerful gaming console. But like any gaming device, it has its share of issues. Many users have reported problems such as freezing or black screens, controller issues, overheating, and more. These problems show up in both old and brand-new PS5 devices. These issues can be frustrating when you are on a roll, and your PS5 just stops mid-game. Here is a guide to common PS5 issues and what you can actually do to fix them at home.

7 Common PlayStation 5 Issues

Most of the time, you may have issues with your PS5 because of problems with the cable, power supply, software, hardware, or mic. Here are the problems you are likely to run into while playing a game on your PS5, along with easy solutions to try at home.

PS5 Keeps Freezing & Won’t Turn On

Problem

Your PS5 might freeze mid-game, lock up on the home screen, or completely stop responding. In some cases, it may not even turn on at all. These issues point to problems with the outlet, the power, or the internal power supply. Sometimes, a system crash or software glitch can also make the console unresponsive.

Solution

Start by holding down the power button for about 15 seconds to force a shutdown. Unplug the power cord and leave it disconnected for 30 to 60 seconds. Try plugging it into a different outlet you know works. If nothing changes, swap out the power cord. Some players also use a surge protector with a reset button to get their system running again. If the system still won’t turn on after all these steps, it may need professional repair.

HDMI Not Working & Black Screen Issues

Problem

Sometimes the PS5 turns on, but nothing shows up on the screen. You might hear the startup sound or see the power light, but the display stays black. This usually points to an HDMI issue. It could be a problem with the port, a damaged cable, or incompatibility between the console’s video output and the TV’s input. Some users have also run into this issue after using Rest Mode.

Solution

Start by unplugging the HDMI cable from both the PS5 and the TV. Plug it back in and make sure it is in the correct port. If the display still does not work, test a different HDMI cable. Try connecting the console to another TV or monitor. On the TV, check the input source and the video settings to confirm it supports the PS5’s output. If you suspect that rest mode might have caused the issue, boot the console into safe mode. Hold the power button until you hear two beeps, then change the video settings from there.

DualSense Controller Not Working Properly

Problem

The DualSense controller makes the PS5 gaming experience immersive with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. But these controllers do not always work the way they should. The buttons might stop responding, and triggers can get soft or start sticking. Stick drift is another issue with the DualSense controller, where the joystick moves the character even when it is not touched. Sometimes the controller disconnects even when the battery is not low. These problems may show up without any warning, even on newer controllers.

Solution

Dust buildup often causes controllers to malfunction. Start by cleaning around the joysticks and buttons by using a cotton swab or a blast of compressed air. If that does not do the trick, check for a firmware update under your PS5’s controller settings. If nothing changes, reset the controller by pressing the small button on the back with a pin. After trying all of these solutions, if there is still no change, you might be dealing with a hardware problem, such as a damaged trigger motor or drifting stick sensor. Hardware issues mean that parts either need to be replaced or repaired by a professional.

Crashes in Rest Mode

Problem

Rest Mode is supposed to keep your console ready without fully shutting down. But many PS5 owners have complained that the console crashes or powers off entirely when in Rest Mode. In some cases, it won’t turn back on until it is restarted manually. This issue is one of the most common problems reported on the PS5 console since its launch.

Solution

To avoid crashes in Rest Mode, you can turn off this mode completely. Go to settings and select System > Power Saving > Set Time Until PS5 Enters Rest Mode, and select “Don’t Put in Rest Mode.” Doing so usually stops the console from entering the rest state. You can also try disabling the HDMI Device Link in the settings section by going to Settings > System > HDMI. This feature can sometimes interfere with power states and cause a crash. Both of these settings have helped many users avoid sudden shutdowns or boot issues.

Overheats

Problem

PS5s tend to overheat due to poor airflow, dust buildup, or if you are playing graphically demanding high-end games for long periods of time. You might hear the fan get louder, see the screen go black, and notice that the game is lagging. Placing the PS5 on soft surfaces can make the problem worse.

Solution

To prevent heating issues, clean the area around your gaming console to prevent dust buildup. Clean the console with a soft cloth or a can of compressed air. You can also use a vacuum on low power to clean out the vents. Do not cover your PS5 with anything. If overheating continues after cleaning, check for software updates or contact support.

Won’t Connect to the PlayStation Network

Problem

Network issues are common with the PS5. Sometimes the console won’t sign in to the PlayStation Network, even when other devices on the same Wi-Fi are working fine. This can happen during setup or randomly while gaming. The problem could be tied to your router, internet provider, PSN server outages, or console settings.

Solution

If you cannot connect to wifi, restart your router and console. You can also switch from Wi-Fi to a wired connection using a LAN cable for a better connection. Go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection, and set up the network manually. You can also update the DNS settings to use Google’s public DNS, which has helped users solve connection errors. If none of these solutions work, check the PSN service status online to see if the issue is on Sony’s end.

Mic or Speaker Not Working

Problem

Sometimes the mic or speaker on your PS5 controller stops working. This could be due to an issue with the setting or with the hardware, and it often happens after switching between devices or using different audio outputs.

Solution

To solve this issue, you can go to System Settings > Sound > Microphone and make sure the right microphone is selected. You can also try raising the microphone’s input volume. If that does not help, try using a different headset. The mic or speaker could be damaged if there is no sound and may need to be repaired.

Tips to Keep Your PS5 Running Smoothly

You can easily avoid many common issues with your PS5 by making a few minor changes, like cleaning the vents or checking cables. This can also help the console stay consistent during longer gaming sessions. Try these tips to keep your console running smoothly:

• Keep the console clean and free of dust.
• Do not place it on carpets, soft surfaces, or inside closed cabinets to avoid overheating.
• Take breaks in between long gaming sessions to reduce heat buildup.
• Check cables regularly for damage or loose connections to avoid interruptions.
• Keep your system software and firmware updated.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your PS5 keeps failing after basic fixes, it is time to get the console checked by a professional. Power failures, hardware damage, overheating that persists after cleaning, or repeated crashes are signs that there might be a deeper issue. Avoid taking the system apart if it is still under warranty, as it could void your coverage. Your best option in these cases is to visit a technician, such as Cell Phone Hospital, for diagnosis and professional repair.

Summary

The PS5 is designed to deliver smooth gaming performance, but, like any device, it has its share of issues. Freezing, overheating, and connection problems are common, but they can all be fixed with simple steps. Proper maintenance helps prevent many of these problems in the first place. If these fixes do not work, the next step is to get help from a trusted repair service.