PS5 Won’t Turn On? 10 Proven Fixes

Quick Fix

PS5 won’t turn on? Power cycle it: unplug the power cord completely, wait 60 seconds, plug back in and press the power button. If the power light flashes then turns off, try Safe Mode: hold power button until you hear a second beep (7 seconds). Connect controller via USB and select Restart PS5.

Why Won’t PS5 Turn On?

PS5 fails to power on due to power supply issues, overheating, software crashes, rest mode bugs, or hardware failure. If the console was in rest mode during a power outage or update, it may need Safe Mode recovery.

Method 1: Full Power Cycle

Reset the power system completely.

1. Hold power button until PS5 shuts off (if on)
2. Unplug power cord from back of PS5
3. Wait 60 seconds
4. Plug power cord back in firmly
5. Press power button once
6. Wait for console to boot

Method 2: Try Different Outlet

Outlet may not provide power.

1. Unplug PS5 from current outlet
2. Plug directly into a different wall outlet
3. Avoid power strips initially
4. Test outlet with another device first
5. Press power button

Method 3: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode bypasses software issues.

1. Make sure PS5 is completely off
2. Press and hold power button
3. Hold until you hear second beep (about 7 seconds)
4. Connect controller via USB cable
5. Press PS button on controller
6. Select Restart PS5

Method 4: Check HDMI Connection

PS5 may be on but no display.

1. Check HDMI cable is firmly connected
2. Try different HDMI port on TV
3. Try different HDMI cable
4. Listen for PS5 beep when pressing power
5. Beep without picture = display issue, not power

Method 5: Check for Overheating

PS5 shuts down when too hot.

1. Feel if PS5 is hot
2. Check vents aren’t blocked
3. Ensure proper ventilation around console
4. Remove from enclosed space
5. Wait 30+ minutes to cool
6. Clean dust from vents

Method 6: Disconnect All USB Devices

Faulty USB can prevent startup.

1. Unplug all USB devices
2. Remove external hard drives
3. Eject any disc
4. Try turning on PS5
5. If it works, reconnect one device at a time

Method 7: Rebuild Database

Fix corrupted system files.

1. Boot into Safe Mode (Method 3)
2. Select option 5: Rebuild Database
3. Wait for process to complete
4. This won’t delete games
5. PS5 will restart when done

Method 8: Clear Cache from Safe Mode

Cached data may cause issues.

1. Boot into Safe Mode
2. Select option 5: Clear Cache and Rebuild Database
3. Choose Clear System Software Cache
4. Wait for completion
5. Try normal boot

Method 9: Update System Software

Via Safe Mode if console boots.

1. Download update file to USB drive from PlayStation website
2. Create folder structure: USB > PS5 > UPDATE
3. Boot into Safe Mode
4. Select option 3: Update System Software
5. Choose Update from USB

Method 10: Contact PlayStation Support

Hardware failure needs repair.

• Check warranty at playstation.com
• PS5 has 1-year manufacturer warranty
• Power supply failure requires professional repair
• Never open PS5 yourself – voids warranty
• Sony offers paid repair for out-of-warranty

FAQ

Why does my PS5 beep but not turn on?

A beep confirms the power button works. If PS5 beeps but nothing happens, it could be overheating protection, software crash, or display issue. Try Safe Mode and check if you can see the menu on screen.

Why does PS5 turn on then immediately off?

Immediate shutdown usually indicates overheating or power supply issue. Ensure ventilation, clean dust from vents, and let it cool. If problem persists, the internal power supply may be failing.

Can power surge damage PS5?

Yes, power surges can damage the power supply unit. Always use a surge protector. If PS5 stopped working after a power outage, the internal PSU may need professional replacement.