System Is Not Accurately Registering Motion
Nintendo 3DS
The information in this article can help you when
- The system responds incorrectly or not at all when playing a game or using an application with motion controls.
- The system is not counting steps, the icons are not spinning, the Nintendo 3DS Camera leveler is incorrect, etc.
Note: During normal operation, steps will only register when the system is powered on and in Sleep Mode.
Complete these steps
- Check the software manual to make sure the game supports motion controls.
- Turn off the system and close it.
- Remove any game cards that are in the unit.
- Grasp the system along the edge that has the Game Card slot.
- Gently slap the bottom of the system (near the serial number sticker) into the palm of your hand.
- This does not take a significant force.
- Turn the system on and make a note of the number of steps displayed on the HOME Menu.
- Put the system in Sleep Mode and shake it gently with both hands five or six times.
- Take the system out of sleep mode and check to see if it registered any steps.
- Additional information on steps can be found in the Operations Manual.
Situation not resolved
If the system still responds incorrectly to motion or does not respond at all, it will 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.
