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Power Issues, Including Damaged Systems and Accessories (Charge Does Not Last)

Nintendo 3DS

The information in this article can help you when the charge doesn't last on the system.

What to do

If you have not already done so, verify that a licensed AC adapter and charging cradle is being used. If a charging cradle is not regularly used, then there is no need to check its model number.

  • AC adapter (all Nintendo 3DS family systems): Model Number WAP-002
    • This number is located on the side of the AC adapter that faces away from the outlet when plugged in.
  • Charging Cradle: Model Number CTR-007, or SPR-007 for the Nintendo 3DS XL
    • This number is located on the bottom of the charging cradle.
  1. Is a licensed AC adapter and charging cradle being used?

  2. Check for physical damage to the AC adapter, charging cradle, and AC adapter port.

    • If a charging cradle is not regularly used, then there is no need to check it for physical damage.
    • Physical damage may include frayed or twisted cords, broken connectors, or the AC adapter may not stay in the AC adapter port.
    • The AC adapter port was designed to look slightly bent; this is not an indication of physical damage unless it is preventing the AC adapter from being plugged in.
    Is physical damage present?

    For assistance with unlicensed accessories, please read our information on Power Issues, Including Damaged Systems and Accessories (Unlicensed Accessories).

  3. For assistance with physical damage, please read our information on Power Issues, Including Damaged Systems and Accessories (Physical Damage)

    If the system is not physically damaged and the symptom is still occurring, the system, AC adapter, and charging cradle, if one is being used, will need to be evaluated 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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