Red Ring of Death

When your Xbox 360 is operating normally the 4 green lights around the power button indicate that all is well. However, when the Xbox 360 experiences a failure three flashing lights appear around the power button. This is commonly known as the Red Ring of Death or RROD for short. Sometimes 2 red lights appear instead of 3 red lights and this is just a serious.  The 3 red lights indicate that the Xbox 360 has suffered a general hardware failure.   

The failure commonly occurs as a result of the console overheating.  

Can I avoid the Red Rings of Death?  

There are several things that you can do to avoid RROD. The most common cause for Xbox 360 problems is a result of over-heating. To avoid over-heating you need to keep your console as cool as possible. The best (and cheapest) way of doing this to keep it in a cool place that has lots of air-flow. Keeping your Xbox 360 next to a heater or next to the heating vents is a big no-no. This is a common mistake and is often done without realizing.  

Another method used to keep your console cool is by purchasing an external cooling device. These devices are effective at keeping your console cool. It is worth noting that many of these devices will void your warranty. It is best to check with Microsoft to find out which devices are acceptable.  

It is also important to note that 2 red lights appear as a result of overheating. If 2 red lights appear on your Xbox 360 it is best to stop playing and allow the Xbox 360 console to cool down.  

How to fix 3 Red Lights  

Your first step should be to check and see if your Xbox 360 is still covered under warranty. If your Xbox 360 is still under warranty then I recommend that you call Microsoft first before purchasing any other products. If you are under warranty Microsoft will generally fix your console for free. The drawback is that in most cases you will have to wait 4 to 6 weeks to get your Xbox back. Even when you get it back it will more than likely be a refurbished console. If you don’t have warranty or are not covered this will cost you a fair bit of money. A friend of mine recently paid $140 for his console and had to wait 5 weeks to get it back.  

Another way to fix your Xbox 360 console is to send it to a repair shop. This is quicker than sending it to Microsoft however will cost you more. Simply give your local repair shop a quick call to find out how much.  

If you are not willing to wait or part with that much money I recommend you purchase the below repair guide:  

Click Here for 3 Red Light Repair Guide

It is important to note that flashing red lights does not mean that your Xbox 360 is completely broken. Repair guides such as the above allow you fix RROD yourself and be back to playing your Xbox 360 on the same day. They are also inexpensive and easy to follow. However if you do decide to repair you console yourself once you open your Xbox 360 you will void your warranty.