General SD Card and microSD Card Troubleshooting
Nintendo 3DS
The information in this article can help you when you're troubleshooting to perform before a service request.
Note
- Do not remove or insert SD cards while the system is on.
- Do not remove a miniSD or microSD card while the adapter is still in the system.
- The Nintendo eShop can still be accessed without an SD card except for the following features:
- SpotPass Notifications
- Purchasing/Downloading Virtual Console titles
- Purchasing/Downloading Nintendo 3DS download software
What to do
- Make sure the system is off and remove the SD card.
- Check that the card is compatible.
- Check the SD card and ensure it is unlocked.
- microSD cards do not have a lock switch and cannot be locked.
- Insert the SD card and turn the system on.
- If the error message mentions that the SD card may be full, try deleting unused content.
- If the problem is occurring with a specific downloadable game or application, use the Nintendo 3DS Download Repair Tool to check the game or application for errors and repair if necessary.
- Even if no errors are found, you can choose to run the repair tool.
- Start the game or application again to see if the problem is still happening.
Situation not resolved
Try another SD card or try the SD card in another system.
- If another SD card works or the SD card does not work in another system, the SD card should be replaced.
- If another SD card does not work or the SD card works in another system, the system and SD card should be sent in for service.
- If another SD card or system is not available, the system and SD card should be sent in for service.
The following systems are available for service from Nintendo:
- New Nintendo 2DS XL - Serial numbers begin with "NW"
For your convenience, Nintendo provides a quick and easy-to-use online service request process.
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My Nintendo 3DS Family System isn't listed as available for service
Nintendo no longer services the following systems:
- Original Nintendo 3DS - Serial numbers begin with “CW” or “CB”
- Original Nintendo 3DS XL - Serial numbers begin with “SW” or “SB”
- New Nintendo 3DS - Serial numbers begin with “YW”
- New Nintendo 3DS XL - Serial numbers begin with “QW” or "QB"
- Nintendo 2DS - Serial numbers begin with "AW" or "AB"
If you want to try replacing the non-working system, see our information on Where Can I Find Refurbished, Older, & Used Nintendo Products?
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Where is the serial number on Nintendo 3DS Family Systems?
The location of the serial number will differ depending on the system:
- Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo 3DS XL, Nintendo 2DS: The serial number will be visible on a white sticker with a bar code under the battery.
- New Nintendo 3DS XL: The serial number isn't visible under the battery. The serial number is found on a white sticker with a bar code under the back cover plate.
- New Nintendo 3DS: The serial number isn't visible under the battery. The serial number is found on a white sticker with a bar code under the front cover plate.
- New Nintendo 2DS XL: The serial number is found on a white sticker with a bar code inside the game card slot.
