PlayStation 5 that won’t turn on can be frustrating, especially if there are no apparent signs of power. Some players experience an utterly unresponsive PS5, while others report that the console beeps but doesn’t power up. Sometimes, the PS5 turns off immediately after turning on, leaving players wondering if it’s a hardware failure.

This guide provides step-by-step troubleshooting methods to diagnose and fix a PS5 that won’t turn on. Whether it’s a power supply issue, overheating shutdown, or software glitch, here’s what you need to do.

Common Reasons Why a PS5 Won’t Turn On

Several factors can cause a PS5 power failure. Understanding the possible causes helps identify the proper fix.

• Power Supply Issues – A faulty power cable, surge protector, or wall outlet can prevent the PS5 from receiving power.
• Software Glitches – System errors or firmware bugs may cause the console to fail to start.
• Overheating Protection – If the console overheats, it may shut down automatically to prevent damage.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU) Failure – A damaged internal PSU may prevent the PS5 from turning on.
• Motherboard or Hardware Issues – Faulty internal components can lead to power failures.

How to Fix PS5 Won’t Turn On Issues

Follow these steps to fix your PS5 not turning on the issue and get your console running again.

1. Check the Power Connection

The first step is to ensure that the PS5 is receiving power. Sometimes, a loose connection, faulty cable, or power strip issue can prevent the console from turning on.

Start by checking if the power cord is securely plugged into the PS5 and the wall outlet. If the console is connected to a surge protector or power strip, remove it and plug the power cord directly into the wall socket to rule out power delivery issues. Also, try using another working power outlet, as the one in use may be faulty.

Check the power cable for damage if the console still does not respond. Replacing the cable with a compatible PlayStation power cable might solve the issue if the cable appears frayed or bent.

2. Perform a Power Cycle

If the PS5 is entirely unresponsive, performing a power cycle reset can help.

1. Please turn off the PS5 entirely by unplugging it from the wall.
2. Wait at least 2–3 minutes to allow the system to discharge.
3. Plug the console back into the power outlet.
4. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds until you hear a second beep.

This resets the console’s internal power system and can fix minor startup failures.

3. Try a Different Power Cable

A faulty power cable can prevent the PS5 from receiving power. Since the PS5 uses a standard IEC C7 power cable, you can test it by swapping it with a working PS4 or Xbox One S power cord.

If the console turns on with another power cable, the original one is defective and should be replaced. If multiple cables fail, the issue may lie in the PS5’s internal power supply unit (PSU).

4. Boot the PS5 in Safe Mode

If the PS5 receives power but does not boot properly, Safe Mode can be used to troubleshoot the issue.

• Ensure the PS5 is fully powered off before proceeding.
• Press and hold the power button for at least 7 seconds, releasing it after hearing the second beep.
• Connect a DualSense controller via USB and press the PS button.
• Select Restart PS5 or Rebuild Database to fix corrupted system files.

Safe Mode helps resolve firmware errors and system crashes. If the PS5 successfully starts in Safe Mode but fails to boot normally, reinstalling the system software might be necessary.

5. Reinstall the System Software

If the PS5 continues to experience boot issues, reinstalling the PlayStation 5 system software may help.

1. Boot the PS5 into Safe Mode as described in the previous section.
2. Select Update System Software and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. If the update fails, download the latest firmware from the PlayStation website on a USB drive.
4. Insert the USB drive into the PS5 and reinstall the system software.

This process replaces corrupted files and restores the system to working order without deleting your saved data.

6. Check for Overheating Issues

If the PS5 turns off suddenly or refuses to turn on, overheating protection may prevent it from booting.

Make sure the console is placed in a well-ventilated area, avoiding enclosed spaces like TV cabinets or tight shelves. Dust buildup inside the air vents and cooling system can also block airflow, causing the PS5 to overheat.

To clean the console:

• Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from the air vents and internal fan.
• Ensure that objects or walls are not blocking the vents.
• Avoid placing the PS5 on carpet or soft surfaces, as these can trap heat.

If the system overheats frequently, it may shut down automatically and refuse to start until it cools down.

7. Inspect for Internal Hardware Issues

The issue might be hardware-related if your PS5 beeps but won’t turn on. The power button itself could be malfunctioning, preventing the system from booting.

A failing power supply unit (PSU) inside the PS5 could also be the cause. If you are comfortable opening the console, check for any loose connections or damaged internal components.

If no visible damage is found, the issue may be with the PS5 motherboard or internal power delivery system, which requires professional repair.

8. When to Contact Sony for Repairs

If none of the above solutions fix the issue, the PS5 may have a severe hardware failure that requires official PlayStation support.

Signs that you need Sony repair services include:

• The PS5 doesn’t respond to different power cables or outlets.
• Safe Mode won’t start, preventing troubleshooting options.
• The console shuts off immediately after turning on.

To check if your PS5 is still under warranty:

• Visit PlayStation’s support website.
• Enter your PS5 serial number to confirm warranty coverage.
• If eligible, file a repair request through Sony’s official channels.

If the PS5 is still under warranty, Sony may offer a free repair or replacement. If not, paid repair services may be required.

Tips to Prevent Future Power Issues on Your PS5

1. Use a Surge Protector – Protects the console from electrical spikes and power fluctuations that can damage internal components.
2. Keep the Console in a Well-Ventilated Space – Ensures proper airflow to prevent overheating and automatic shutdowns.
3. Clean Dust from Vents and Internal Components—This removes dust buildup that can block airflow and cause the system to overheat.
4. Avoid Sudden Power Loss—Always shut down the PS5 properly instead of unplugging it to prevent system corruption or damage to the power supply.
5. Use a High-Quality Power Cable – A faulty or damaged power cord can cause power issues, so always use a reliable and compatible cable.
6. Keep the System Software Updated – Regular firmware updates help fix system bugs and power-related issues that may prevent the PS5 from turning on.

PS5 Power Issues vs. Other Console Problems

If your PS5 isn’t turning on, confirm it’s not just a display issue.

• PS5 power issues – No lights, no beeps, or automatic shutdown.
• HDMI issues – The PS5 is on, but there is no signal on the TV.
• Software crashes – The PS5 turns on but gets stuck on a black screen.
• How to Fix PS5 Controller Vibration Issues and Restore Feedback

If the screen is black but the console is on, try a different HDMI cable or TV port before assuming it’s a power issue.

Conclusion

A PS5 that won’t turn on is usually caused by power issues, software glitches, or overheating problems. Start with basic troubleshooting, including checking power connections and performing a power cycle. Try Safe Mode, system updates, or hardware inspection if the issue persists.

If your PS5 still doesn’t turn on after these steps, contact Sony for repair options. Keeping the console well-ventilated, dust-free, and protected from power surges can help prevent future power problems.

Has your PS5 ever refused to turn on? Share your experience and solutions in the comments!