A System LED Is Not Functioning as Expected
Nintendo 3DS
The information in this article can help you when one of the System LED's is not turning on or functioning as expected.
Note
- Only the original Nintendo 3DS has a 3D LED.
- Only the original Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 3DS XL have a camera LED.
- The Notification LED will only light up when a Notification is received.
- The 3D LED will only light up when the image on the upper screen can be viewed in 3D.
- The Power LED will remain lit while the system is turned on.
- Sleep Mode is indicated by a pulsing blue LED; however, not all games can be put into sleep mode. If the system is not going into sleep mode, it is most likely because the software does not support it. To test this, close all software and return to the HOME menu to see if the system will enter sleep mode normally when it is closed.
Situation not resolved
If the LED is not functioning as intended, the system may need to be serviced.
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.
