How to Fix PS4 Error CE-34878-0 (2025 Edition)

If you’re seeing the dreaded PS4 error code CE-34878-0, you’re not alone. Thousands of gamers across Reddit, Sony forums, and Facebook groups have run into this frustrating crash error. Whether you’re deep into a long campaign, launching a new game, or even just booting up your system, CE-34878-0 can strike at any time—causing the game to crash and sending you straight back to the home screen.

This issue has persisted for years, but in 2025, there are now more user-tested fixes and expert recommendations than ever. In this guide, we’ll explain what causes the error, how it affects gameplay, and most importantly, how to fix it for good.

What Is PS4 Error CE-34878-0?

Error code CE-34878-0 is a general error that pops up when an application crashes. It often appears with a message saying “An error has occurred in the following application,” followed by the name of the game or app.

Symptoms include:

• Crashes on game launch
• Mid-game crashes
• Repeated crashes for a specific game or multiple games
• Loss of game progress

Gamers report this issue happening in both physical and digital games, and across standard PS4, PS4 Slim, and PS4 Pro models. It’s a game-breaking problem that can make even casual sessions frustrating.

Why Does CE-34878-0 Happen?

This error isn’t tied to just one cause, which makes it tricky. Here are the most common reasons according to user reports and Sony support:

1. Corrupted Game Data

If a game file becomes corrupted (due to an incomplete update, sudden shutdown, or software bug), it can trigger CE-34878-0 every time you try to launch that title.

2. Outdated System Software

Running outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with newer game patches, leading to instability.

3. Corrupt Saved Data

Sometimes it’s not the game itself, but your saved data that’s broken. This causes the game to crash during load.

4. Faulty Hard Drive

Users with aging or failing hard drives often report random app crashes across multiple games. Performance may degrade before the error appears.

5. Defective Game Installation

An interrupted or buggy install (especially from disc) can create persistent crashing errors. In some cases, background installations don’t complete properly.

6. Hardware Changes (e.g., Upgraded HDD or RAM)

According to Sony, if you’ve made any hardware changes, you’ll need to reinitialize the system.

7. Third-Party Accessories or Mods

Some users reported issues caused by unsupported external drives or mods that change in-game files or settings.

How to Fix PS4 Error CE-34878-0

Based on extensive community feedback and expert repair advice, here are the most effective solutions. Try them in order, from least invasive to more involved fixes.

1. Restart the Console

It sounds simple, but a full reboot (not just Rest Mode) can sometimes resolve temporary glitches.

Steps:

1. Hold the PS button.
2. Select “Power > Turn Off PS4.”
3. Wait 30 seconds, then power back on.

2. Update the Game and System Software

Missing updates are one of the top reasons users see CE-34878-0.

How to Check:

• Game: Highlight the game > Press Options > Check for Update
• System: Settings > System Software Update

If updates are available, install and restart your console.

3. Reinstall the Game

Uninstalling and reinstalling the affected game can fix corrupted files.

Steps:

1. Go to Library > Hover over game > Press Options > Delete.
2. Reinstall via disc or redownload from PlayStation Store.

User tip: Back up your saved data first.

4. Delete and Rebuild Database

Rebuilding the database cleans up the PS4 file system and can fix software-level bugs.

Steps:

1. Turn off PS4 completely.
2. Hold the power button until you hear 2 beeps (Safe Mode).
3. Connect a controller with a USB cable.
4. Choose Option 5: Rebuild Database.

This may take up to 30 minutes but won’t delete your games or saves.

5. Delete Corrupted Save Data

If a particular save file is the problem, deleting it can restore functionality.

Steps:

1. Settings > Application Saved Data Management
2. Saved Data in System Storage > Delete
3. Select the game and delete corrupted saves (look for broken icons or empty files).

Backup important saves to USB or cloud before deleting anything.

6. Reinitialize Your PS4

This is a full factory reset, best reserved as a last resort.

Warning: This deletes all games, accounts, and settings. Back up your data first.

Steps:

1. Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 > Full
2. Follow on-screen instructions.

Users with persistent issues across multiple games report this as a permanent fix.

7. Check Your Hard Drive

If nothing else works, consider that your hard drive may be failing.

Look for these signs:

• Frequent crashes across different games
• Slow menu response
• Noisy HDD

You can try replacing the HDD with a compatible one or upgrading to an SSD for better performance.

8. Use Another User Account

Create a new user profile to rule out corrupt account data. If the game works fine on a new account, your main profile may be corrupted.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Login Settings > User Management > Create User
2. Log into the new account and try launching the game.

Pro Tips from the Community

• Turn Off Face Recognition: If you use a PlayStation Camera, go to Settings > Login Settings and disable face recognition. It has been linked to this error.
• Disable Rest Mode: Some users report that crashes occur more frequently when launching games after Rest Mode. Disable it under Power Save Settings.
• Use Wired Internet: A stable connection can prevent update corruption. Try using Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi during game downloads.
• Don’t Skip Error Reporting: Always send the crash report to Sony. It helps them improve system patches and support.
• Use Extended Storage Carefully: If you’re running games from an external USB drive, make sure it’s formatted properly and is a high-speed, supported device.

When to Contact Sony Support

If you’ve tried every fix and CE-34878-0 still persists, your system might need professional service. This is especially true if your PS4 is:

• Still under warranty
• Crashing across multiple unrelated games
• Making unusual noises or showing other hardware symptoms

Visit PlayStation Support to schedule a repair or get advanced diagnostics. They may offer mail-in repair or direct replacement.

Final Thoughts

Error code CE-34878-0 is a frustrating issue, but in most cases, it’s fixable with the right approach. Whether it’s a corrupted save file, a buggy game install, or outdated firmware, there’s usually a clear path to recovery. In 2025, with better tools, updates, and community knowledge, fixing this error is easier than ever.

Use the step-by-step solutions in this guide to get back to gaming—without unexpected crashes killing your vibe. If one fix doesn’t work, don’t give up. Combine solutions, take your time, and your PS4 will likely be back in action.