Fix: Xbox Series X / S Not Turning On 

Are you experiencing problems turning on your Xbox Series X or S console? If so, don’t panic just yet. There could be a few different reasons why your console won’t turn on, some of which are easy to fix.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the issue. These instructions apply to both the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles, and differences between the two are noted where applicable.

Possible Causes of Xbox Series X or S Not Turning On

Firstly, it is important to understand the possible reasons why your Xbox Series X or S won’t turn on. The issue may be related to the hardware, corrupt software or firmware, or a power problem:

1. Hardware problems: Hardware problems are best left to professionals and may involve the power supply, power button, or other internal electronics.
2. Power issues: Power issues are typically external to the console and can often be fixed by changing outlets or power strips.
3. Software and firmware issues: Software and firmware issues may be more complicated, but they are usually the result of incomplete updates or corrupt files.

How to Fix Xbox Series X or S That Won’t Turn On

Now that you know why your Xbox isn’t turning on, let’s proceed with the solutions. We have compiled the most effective solutions in this section. These solutions have proved to be helpful for many users. So make sure to try them all before coming to any conclusion.

Fix 1: Power Cycle the Xbox Series X/S

The first thing you should do when dealing with power issues on your Xbox Series X/S is to power cycle the console. A power cycle will help reset the console’s internal power supply, which often helps resolve the issue. Here’s how to power cycle your Xbox Series X/S:

1. First, turn off your console. Press and hold the power button on your console until it turns off completely.
2. Next, unplug the power cord from the console.
3. Make sure you also disconnect any other cables connected to the console, including HDMI and Ethernet cables.
4. Wait for at least 30 seconds before turning your console back on.
5. Check to see if the console turns on now.

Fix 2: Check the Power Cord and Power Strip

If power cycling your Xbox Series X/S hasn’t worked, you should check the power cord and strip. Ensure that the power strip is switched on and the Xbox Series X/S is correctly connected. Additionally, verify that the power cord is securely plugged into both the console and the power outlet.

Often, the issue is as simple as a loosely connected power cord or power strip. Therefore, verify all connections, ensure everything is tightly plugged in, and try turning on the console again.

Fix 3: Avoid Power Strips and Use a Wall Outlet

Power strips and surge protectors can sometimes limit the amount of power your Xbox Series X/S receives, leading to issues with turning on the console. It’s recommended to avoid using them if possible, especially if you’ve exhausted other fixes and your console still won’t turn on.

To ensure your console receives the appropriate amount of power, try plugging it directly into a dedicated wall outlet. Ensure that the wall outlet is functioning properly before plugging in your console.

After plugging in the power cord, turn on your Xbox Series X/S and check if it turns on. If it does, investing in a high-quality surge protector that can handle the amount of power your console requires may be a good idea.

Fix 4: Use a Different Power Cord

If you have gone through all the previous solutions and your Xbox Series X/S is still not turning on, it could be that the power cord is faulty or damaged. It’s crucial to determine if this is the case, so try using a different power cord to see if the console powers on.

You may consider borrowing a power cord from someone you know or purchasing a new one. However, ensure that the new power cord is compatible with your Xbox Series X/S.

If the console still doesn’t turn on after trying a different power cord, it’s possible that the problem is with the console hardware itself or there is some other issue. Move down to the next solution.

Fix 5: Use a Disk to Turn on the Xbox Series X/S

If you find that your Xbox Series X/S start button is damaged or not working properly, one solution is to use a disk to turn on the console. By inserting a disk, such as a game or a DVD, the console should automatically turn on, bypassing the need for the start button.

Using a disk to turn on your Xbox Series X/S can be a helpful workaround, but it’s important to note that this is not a permanent fix for a broken start button.

Fix 6: Use the Xbox Controller to Turn on the Console

Another option to consider if your Xbox Series X/S won’t turn on is to use the Xbox controller. To do this, simply connect the controller to the console using a USB cable and press the Xbox button on the controller. This should turn on the console.

If your controller isn’t synced with the console, you may need to sync them up by pressing the sync button on both the console and the controller simultaneously until they connect.

Remember, using the Xbox controller to turn on your console is also not a permanent fix for an underlying issue. If the problem persists, it’s best to seek further assistance from Microsoft support or consider repairing or replacing the console.

Fix 7: Check the Resolution Settings

If you’re still unable to turn on the Xbox Series X/S, it might be an issue with the resolution settings. Sometimes, the console’s resolution can be set higher than what your TV or monitor supports, which can prevent it from turning on.

1. Firstly, switch on your TV or monitor and ensure it is set to the input that your Xbox Series X/S is connected to.
2. Next, if you own an Xbox Series X, press and hold the power button located on the front of the console for 10 seconds, on the other hand, if you have an Xbox Series S, hold down the pair button on the front of the console for 10 seconds.
3. The console will emit two beeps and shut down completely. Wait for about 10 seconds, and then power on your console once again.
4. Your console should now initiate in low-resolution mode, and you’ll be able to view the screen at a lower quality than usual.
5. Head over to “Settings” on your console, then click “General.”
6. Scroll down to “TV & display options,” followed by “Video fidelity & overscan.”
7. Verify the “Resolution” setting and ensure it is configured to a resolution that your TV or monitor supports. In case the resolution is set to a higher level than your TV or monitor can display, adjust it to a lower resolution.
8. Save the changes you’ve made and exit the settings menu.
9. Turn off your console, then turn it back on. Your console should now turn on correctly with the appropriate resolution for your TV or monitor.

Fix 8: Clean your Console

Removing dust buildup from your console can also help in fixing the issue of the Xbox Series X/S not turning on. Dust accumulation inside the console can cause overheating, which may prevent it from turning on. To clean the dust, you can use canned air or an electronic blower.

Begin by blowing air into the USB and other ports of the console. Make sure to hold the canister at a distance to avoid causing any damage to the console. Next, try blowing air into the vent of the console to remove any dust buildup.

If your console has an excessive amount of dust, you may need to take it apart to clean it thoroughly. However, it is essential to note that taking apart your console can void your warranty. Therefore, if you’re unsure about how to go about cleaning the dust or don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, consider seeking professional help.

Contact Microsoft Support

In case the issue still persists even after following all the above steps, it may be a hardware issue. Contact the Microsoft support team for further guidance on how to proceed with a repair or replacement.

Final Words

That’s how you fix an Xbox Series X / S that is not turning on. It can be really daunting if your Xbox doesn’t turn on. By following the steps in the article, you should be able to turn your Xbox back on and start gaming again. If everything fails, you should contact Microsoft support. If you have any further questions, please let us know. We will try to help you out.