Do you own a PS4 console that turns on by itself? You’re not alone. Many PS4 users have reported this frustrating issue, where their console unexpectedly powers up without any user input. Some users have even experienced their PS4 automatically ejecting discs or booting to safe mode after turning on spontaneously. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as bugs, recent updates, HDMI device links, pending updates, and more. If you’re facing this issue, don’t worry. In this comprehensive troubleshooting guide, we will explore several solutions to help you fix your PS4 turns on by itself problem.
How to Fix PS4 Turns On By Itself
1. Ensure The PS4 Is Turned Off Properly
The first step in troubleshooting this issue is to ensure that your PS4 is properly turned off. Sometimes, if the console is not shut down correctly, it may automatically wake up later. Additionally, check if any buttons on the PS4 or the controllers are being triggered accidentally. Even a slight pressure on the buttons can cause the PS4 to turn on by itself. By ensuring that the console is turned off properly and no buttons are pressed, you can eliminate this possibility.
2. Check With The Rubber Foot
Underneath the eject button on your PS4, you’ll find a rubber foot. This rubber foot can expand with heat and inadvertently press the eject button, causing your PS4 to turn on by itself. Inspect the rubber foot and check if it is interfering with the console. If it is, you can cut or remove the rubber foot to prevent it from pressing the eject button unintentionally.
3. Disconnect Any Accessories
Sometimes, external accessories connected to your PS4 can trigger the console to turn on by itself. To troubleshoot this possibility, ensure that no accessories are connected when you turn off your PS4. Properly shut down the console and disconnect all accessories that are connected to it. By removing any external devices, you can determine if any of them are causing the issue.
4. Update PS4 Firmware
Outdated firmware can sometimes cause unexpected behavior in the PS4, including it turning on by itself. To fix this, you should update the firmware of your PS4 to the latest version. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Settings of your PS4.
- Select the option for System Software Update.
- If there is an update available, it will be downloaded and installed on your console.
- Once the update is complete, the issue of your PS4 turning on by itself should be resolved.
5. Turn Off Automatic Updates
Automatic updates can also trigger your PS4 to turn on by itself when downloading updates. To prevent this from happening, you can disable automatic updates. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings on your PS4 and go to the System tab.
- Look for the option called Automatic Downloads.
- Uncheck the checkbox next to System Software Update Files.
- This will disable automatic updates and prevent your PS4 from turning on unexpectedly.
6. Restart Your PS4
A simple power cycle of your PS4 can often resolve various software issues, including the problem of it turning on by itself. To restart your PS4, follow these steps:
- Press and hold the Power button on your PS4 until you hear two beeps, then release the button.
- Unplug all the cables and accessories connected to your PS4.
- Leave the console in this state for a few minutes.
- Reconnect all the accessories and cables to your PS4.
- Turn on your PS4 and check if it still turns on by itself.
- This power cycle should fix the issue in most cases.
7. Disable HDMI Device Link
If the HDMI device link feature is enabled on your PS4, it may be causing the console to turn on by itself. Disabling this feature can help resolve the issue. Follow these steps to disable HDMI Device Link:
- Open the Settings on your PS4.
- Go to the System tab.
- Look for the option called Enable HDMI Device Link.
- Uncheck the checkbox next to it.
- Restart your console.
- Check if the issue of your PS4 turning on by itself is resolved.
8. Get APU Repair
In some cases, the Accelerated Processing Unit (APU) present within the CPU of your PS4 may be causing it to turn on by itself. The APU can become disconnected from the motherboard due to overheating, which leads to this issue. To prevent this from happening, avoid overusing your PS4, ensure proper ventilation, and maintain proper air circulation around the console. However, if the issue has already occurred, it is recommended to seek professional repair services from an authorized service center.
9. Rebuild the Database
Rebuilding the database of your PS4 can help fix minor bugs and glitches that may be causing it to turn on by itself. This process does not delete any of your data but only rebuilds the database. Here’s how you can rebuild the database:
- Turn off your PS4.
- Press and hold the Power Button on your PS4 until you hear two beeps.
- When your PS4 turns on, connect your DualShock 4 controller to the console and press the PlayStation button.
- You will now enter safe mode.
- Select Rebuild Database from the options and press the X button.
- Wait for the process to complete.
- After the database is rebuilt, the issue of your PS4 turning on by itself should be resolved.
10. Restore Default Settings
Incorrect settings can sometimes cause the PS4 to turn on by itself. Restoring the default settings can help resolve this issue. Here’s how you can restore the default settings on your PS4:
- Boot your PS4 into safe mode.
- Power off your PS4.
- Press and hold the Power Button until you hear the second beep.
- Connect your controller to the PS4 console and press the PlayStation button on it.
- Your PS4 will now boot up in safe mode.
- Select the option named Restore Default Settings.
- Select Restart to reboot your PS4.
- The settings will be restored to default, and the issue should be resolved.
11. Reinstall System Software
If your PS4 continues to turn on by itself, reinstalling the system software may be the solution. Reinstalling the system software will delete all settings and data on your console, but it can fix software-related issues. Follow these steps to reinstall the system software:
- Power off your PS4 completely.
- Press and hold the Power button until you hear two beeps, then release it.
- Ensure that your DualShock 4 controller is connected to your PS4 console.
- Press the PlayStation button on your controller.
- From the options that appear, select Initialize PS4 (Reinstall System Software).
- Wait for the process to complete.
- After the system software is reinstalled, the issue of your PS4 turning on by itself should be resolved.
12. Check Hard Drive
A loose hard drive can also cause your PS4 to turn on by itself. If you suspect that the hard drive is causing the problem, you should have it checked by a professional technician. However, opening up your console and checking the hard disk yourself can void the warranty and may cause further damage if not done properly. If you have the necessary knowledge and expertise, you can follow these steps to check the hard drive:
- Turn off your PS4 and disconnect all cables and accessories.
- Remove the hard disk cover of your PS4.
- Check for any misalignment or shifting of the hard drive.
- If the hard drive is not properly aligned, untighten the hard drive screws, realign the hard drive, and tighten the screws.
- Once the hard disk is back in its correct position, put back the hard disk cover.
- Reconnect the cables to your PS4 and turn it on.
Conclusion
Experiencing your PS4 turning on by itself can be frustrating, but with the troubleshooting steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you should be able to resolve the issue. Make sure to follow each step carefully and test your console after applying each solution to determine if the problem is resolved. If the issue persists, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from the authorized service center. By taking the necessary steps, you can enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions on your PS4 without any unexpected power-ups.
