Does your PS4 have a blinking blue light?
Your PlayStation 4 console can show different types of lights but having a blinking blue light can be a signal of either a temporary bug or a serious problem with the hardware or the software.
Generally, a flashing blue light means that your device does not have any video or audio output.
The issue may revolve around the PS4’s power supply, TV compatibility, corrupted software, power cord, bad HDMI cable, or faulty hard drive.
A common solution to the infamous blue light of death is to turn off your PlayStation Console and turn it on again.
If your console has returned to full functionality, the light will blink blue first and then turn white.
However, if the blinking blue light does not stop, this guide will give you other solutions that you can try to help fix the problem.
Additionally, you will learn more about the various causes of a blinking blue light on your PS4 console.
Why Is My PS4 Blinking Blue Light?
While the issue of the PS4 flashing blue light issue is not overly common, when it occurs it can spell doom!
Below are some of the common reasons that we’ve identified for causing this problem:
1. Random PS4 bug
The blinking blue light on your PS4 might be caused by a random system glitch.
This occurrence is more likely when the console has been used for a prolonged duration without interruption. Additionally, the system may have become unresponsive.
2. Non-functional PS4 Power Supply
When your PS4 fails to power on and just displays a flashing blue light, it suggests a potential problem with the power supply unit.
If there are any power surges, the power supply can be damaged, rendering it non-functional.
3. TV problem
Occasionally, the inability of the console to start up may be attributed to a problem with the television.
Ensure that the firmware of your TV is up to date. If you require assistance with the updating process, refer to the documentation or manual provided.
4. Bad HDMI cable
A defective HDMI cable can lead to various noticeable issues, such as no or low-quality video and audio, or a blinking blue light on a PS4.
Examine the cable for visible signs of damage, like bends or breaks in the insulator.
5. PS4 software glitch
Occasionally, an unpredictable software glitch can cause light indicator issues on the PS4.
If you have exclusively used the console offline, connect it to the internet and check for any available software updates to resolve the problem.
6. Resolution Incompatibility
Your PS4 may be showing the blue light because you are attempting to use a resolution on your PlayStation that differs from your TV.
Fixing a PS4 Blue Light of Death
The following are some of the solutions that you can follow to troubleshoot a flashing blue light on your PS4:
1. Reboot the Console or Restore it to Factory Settings
If your PS4 console fails to complete the boot process and becomes unresponsive, attempt the following steps:
- Begin by turning it off using the controller.
- Alternatively, press and hold the Power button on the front to initiate a reboot.
- If there is no response, disconnect the console from the wall outlet or power strip, and wait for approximately 1 minute before reconnecting and powering it on again.
2. Try running the PS4 in Safe Mode
To restart your PS4 in safe mode when it’s stuck and won’t boot normally, follow these steps:
- Turn off the PS4 by pressing the front Power button until it blinks and powers down.
- Press and hold the Power button until you hear two beeps, the first upon pressing and the second after about seven seconds.
- Connect your DualShock 4 controller using a USB cable.
- Press the PS button at the center of the controller.
If your PS4 successfully enters safe mode using the above steps, it suggests a software-related issue was the cause of the blue light appearing.
Consider checking for updates to resolve any potential software problems. In safe mode, you can also attempt to fix software issues by utilizing the “Initialize PS4” or “Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software)” options.
3. Check the Power Supply
If you are unable to access safe mode, it is advisable to inspect the Power Supply Unit (PSU). Follow these steps:
- Press and hold the front Power button for a minimum of 10 seconds. If the console emits two beeps or shuts down, allow it to complete the process.
- Next, disconnect the power cable from both the wall outlet and the back of the console for approximately one minute.
4. Use another HDMI cable
As previously mentioned, a potential cause of PS4 issues is the HDMI cable. If available, try using a different cable to determine if it resolves the problem.
Before unplugging, ensure that both the TV and console are powered off.
5. Check the PS4 and TV HDMI ports
A flashing blue light issue on the PS4 can also arise from an HDMI connector that is bent on either the TV or the console. It is important to visually inspect the HDMI ports of both devices.
If any of the pins are damaged or bent, a repair may be necessary as there is no remedy for this issue.
6. Update TV firmware
With the evolution of TVs, occasional software-related issues can arise despite the manufacturers’ efforts for compatibility and bug-free products.
Coding errors or bugs can still occur. To minimize the likelihood of a TV firmware problem, it is important to check for a software update at this stage, ensuring that your TV’s software is up to date.
7. Take the Console to Service
The PS4 Blue Light of Death can indicate various hardware issues, including a dead CMOS battery. The CMOS battery, responsible for storing data and hardware settings, may require replacement.
However, changing the battery necessitates hardware expertise, so we advise against opening the console.
Additionally, other hardware damage such as dust, rust, faulty cables, or boards could be present.
Overheating is another possible concern. Professional assistance may be necessary to address cooling system problems.
If the above solutions prove ineffective, you will need to seek repair services from a specialized store. Nonetheless, you can find instructions below for changing the CMOS battery independently.
8. Change the CMOS battery
By removing and replacing the CMOS battery, you can initiate a firmware reset, potentially reviving an apparently nonfunctional PS4.
Here are the steps:
- Purchase a new CMOS battery.
- Turn off the console.
- Disconnect all PS4 cables.
- Open the PS4 case.
- Locate the coin-sized CMOS battery (CR2032) on the motherboard. Carefully remove the battery using a small flat-headed screwdriver by pushing the retaining pin and lifting it from its socket.
- Wait for five minutes.
- Insert the new CMOS battery.
- Close the PS4 case.
- Reconnect the console and allow it to charge the battery for 10 minutes.
- Power on the PS4.
Please note that performing these steps requires caution and technical knowledge.
FAQ
What Does The Blue Light On A PS4 Controller Mean?
A blue light on a PS4 controller is a common problem and it indicates that there is an issue with the software, TV, HDMI cable, or faulty power.
To solve this issue, you can restart your console, put it in safe mode, use another HDMI cable, ensure that the power cables are connected properly, update the TV’s firmware, or take the console to a technician for service.
What Does It Mean If My PS4 Blinks Blue And Then Turns Off?
If your PS4 blinks blue and then turns off, it means that the device is not able to send a signal to the TV, which stops normal operation by bricking the device.
Turning your device on and off again can help to resolve the blinking blue light.
However, you can try other solutions including updating the software on your TV, ensuring that the HDMI cable is working properly, and checking the hard drive.
Final Words
Hopefully, this guide has given you all the information you need to know about the causes of a flashing blue light on a PS4 and how to solve it.
Most of the fixes we’ve provided are easy to follow, but if you cannot solve the problem, you should take the console to a repair shop for it to be checked by a professional.
In the worst-case scenario, you’ll need to get a replacement PS4, or even get the PS5 upgrade!
