Skip Navigation

Nintendo 64 Controller Will Not Power On

Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model

The information in this article can help you when:

  • The Nintendo 64 Controller will not power on.
  • The player LEDs on the Nintendo 64 Controller will not light up or blink when pressing a button.

Before you start

You will need:

  • Your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console
  • Your Nintendo 64 Controller (model No. HAC-043)
  • A Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter (MOD. NGN-01) or Nintendo Switch AC adapter (model No. HAC-002)
  • Access to a power outlet

What to do

  1. Verify that you are using the Nintendo 64 Controller (model No. HAC-043). The model number can be found on the back of the controller.
    • If a different accessory is being used, replacing it with the correct controller may resolve the problem.
  2. Reset the AC adapter by leaving it unplugged from both ends for at least 30 seconds.
    • While performing this step, verify you are using either the Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter (MOD. NGN-01) or the Nintendo Switch AC adapter (model No. HAC-002) and check for any cuts, kinks, frayed cables, etc.
    • If any damage is found, or if a different charger is being used, replacing it with the correct accessory may resolve the problem.

      You can purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter or the Nintendo Switch AC adapter from our Nintendo Store.

  3. Connect the Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch AC adapter directly to the USB connector at the top of the Nintendo 64 Controller and to a wall outlet.
    • While charging, the recharge LED on the Nintendo 64 Controller will remain lit. (Once the battery charge is complete, the recharge LED will power off.)
  1. Did the recharge LED on the Nintendo 64 Controller power on?
    1. Power on your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console, then press any button on the Nintendo 64 Controller.
    2. If the player LEDs turn on momentarily and shut off, the Nintendo 64 Controller will need to be paired.
    3. If the recharge LED remains lit while the AC adapter is plugged in, but the player LEDs do not turn on, allow the Nintendo 64 Controller to charge for at least 15 to 30 minutes. Then pair it to the console.
      4. Did this resolve your issue?

    If the recharge LED does not turn on at all, test the Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch AC adapter by connecting it directly to your console.

    Is the AC adapter working?

  3. If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    If any of the scenarios below apply, the Nintendo 64 Controller will need to be serviced:

    • The Nintendo 64 Controller has charged for at least 15 to 30 minutes, but the player LEDs will not turn on at all when a button is pressed.
    • The battery charge on the Nintendo 64 Controller does not last very long even after charging for at least 3.5 hours.

    Please contact us for support.

    The Nintendo 64 Controller will need to be serviced.

    Please contact us for support.

    Try the following:

    • Use a different wall outlet.
    • If possible, use a different Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch AC adapter.
      • If another AC adapter works with the console, the original Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch AC adapter will need to be replaced.

        • Please contact us for support.

Additional information

It takes approximately 3.5 hours to fully charge the Nintendo 64 Controller.

Was this helpful?