PS5 Won’t Turn On? Here’s the Full 2025 Repair Guide

There’s nothing more frustrating than pressing the power button on your PlayStation 5… and nothing happens. Whether your PS5 shows no lights, briefly flashes blue or white, or refuses to boot past the logo screen, you’re not alone. In 2025, thousands of gamers have reported “PS5 won’t turn on” issues after firmware updates, power surges, or hardware wear and tear.

This article walks you through every proven fix—from basic to advanced—to bring your console back to life. We’ve collected solutions from tech experts, Sony support forums, and Reddit users who’ve solved this exact issue.

Common Signs Your PS5 Won’t Turn On

Here’s how this problem typically shows up:

• Pressing the power button does nothing
• A quick white or blue light flashes, then the console shuts off
• The system beeps but doesn’t boot
• PS5 gets stuck at the PlayStation logo
• No video signal is sent to your TV
• DualSense won’t connect or power on the console

Why Won’t Your PS5 Turn On? (Top Causes in 2025)

Let’s look at the most reported reasons this issue happens:

1. Power Supply Issues

Whether it’s a power surge, faulty outlet, or loose cord, this is a top reason the PS5 fails to power up.

2. Firmware Glitch

A failed update or interrupted shutdown can corrupt system software, leaving the console unresponsive.

3. Rest Mode Crash

PS5 Rest Mode still causes problems for many. In some cases, the console won’t wake up or turn on afterward.

4. HDMI Link Conflict

Your PS5 and TV might miscommunicate due to HDMI-CEC settings, especially after a TV firmware update.

5. Hardware Failure

Overheating, motherboard damage, or SSD failure can keep the console from turning on or fully booting.

6. Dust or Internal Debris

Too much dust can block vents and overheat internal components, triggering safety shutoff.

Step-by-Step Fixes for a PS5 That Won’t Turn On

Let’s fix this. Start with the simple methods and work your way through.

1. Check Your Power Supply Setup

Steps:

• Unplug the power cable from both the PS5 and the wall
• Wait 30 seconds to fully discharge
• Plug it into a different wall outlet (not a power strip)
• Press the power button again

Tip: Try a known working power cord from another PS5 or device. They’re universal.

2. Inspect the Power Cable and Port

Look for:

• Bent pins inside the power port
• A frayed or loose cord

If it’s damaged, replace it. A bad connection prevents power flow.

3. Try a Hard Reset (Power Drain Trick)

Steps:

1. Unplug the PS5
2. Hold the power button for 15 seconds
3. Plug back in and try turning it on

This clears temporary firmware bugs.

4. Remove Any Discs or USB Devices

Peripherals can sometimes conflict with booting. Remove all USB devices, discs, and accessories.

Try powering on again with only the power cord and HDMI connected.

5. Try Safe Mode Boot

Safe Mode bypasses normal startup and lets you repair software.

Steps:

1. Press and hold the power button until you hear the second beep (~7 seconds)
2. Connect your controller via USB
3. Choose Option 1: Restart PS5

If that doesn’t work, try Option 5: Rebuild Database or Option 6: Reset PS5 (Keep Games & Apps)

If It Turns On But Won’t Stay On

Some users report it powers up for a few seconds, then shuts off. This may point to:

• Overheating: Internal fans or sensors may be failing
• Damaged SSD: System can’t load core files
• Bad Power IC (Integrated Chip): Common issue after power surges

If your console briefly lights up, jump to Safe Mode and attempt Reinstall System Software.

Update System Software (USB Method)

If Safe Mode is accessible, use a USB drive to reinstall fresh firmware.

Steps:

1. Format a USB to FAT32
2. Create folder structure: PS5 > UPDATE
3. Download the latest PS5 update from Sony’s website
4. Save the file as PS5UPDATE.PUP into the UPDATE folder
5. Insert USB into PS5 and select Option 7: Reinstall System Software

Prevent HDMI Signal Confusion

Some TVs may cause the PS5 to stay off or enter a weird power loop.

Steps:

• Disconnect HDMI cable
• Plug it into another TV or monitor
• Try powering the PS5 on again

Then:

• Go to Settings > System > HDMI
• Disable “Enable HDMI Device Link”

Fix Rest Mode-Related Boot Issues

Steps:

1. Boot into Safe Mode
2. Choose Option 5: Rebuild Database
3. Disable Rest Mode:
   • Go to Settings > Power Saving
   • Set Rest Mode time to “Don’t Use”

Many users say this stopped their “won’t turn on” issue from recurring.

Advanced Fixes (For Persistent Issues)

1. Replace CMOS Battery (Rare)

Some tech repair shops discovered that a dead CMOS battery can prevent full boot.

This requires disassembly and isn’t recommended unless you’re comfortable with console repair.

2. Fan or Heatsink Obstruction

If your PS5 briefly turns on and the fan whines or doesn’t spin, open the top cover and clean out dust.

Sony officially allows basic cleaning without voiding warranty (see their website).

3. Replace Internal SSD (If Corrupted)

Faulty drives may freeze the boot process. If Safe Mode doesn’t work and you’ve tried a fresh software install, drive failure could be the cause.

When to Seek Help From Sony or a Technician

It’s time to call for help if:

• You can’t access Safe Mode at all
• There’s no power light or beep no matter what
• The system shuts off repeatedly
• There are signs of electrical damage

If under warranty, contact Sony’s official PlayStation Support site for a mail-in repair. Out-of-warranty users can consider reputable local electronics repair shops.

How to Prevent This Issue in the Future

• Use a surge protector to shield from power spikes
• Avoid Rest Mode until Sony resolves ongoing bugs
• Keep system updated using auto-updates
• Shut down fully instead of letting it idle
• Clean vents every few months to avoid overheating

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a PS5 that won’t turn on can be stressful—but in most cases, the fix is easier than you’d expect. From basic power resets to Safe Mode recovery and USB-based firmware reinstalls, these solutions have worked for thousands of gamers in 2025.

Start with the easy steps and only escalate if nothing works. And remember—keeping your PS5 clean, updated, and safe from power issues is the best way to avoid this problem in the future.