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Getting the error The game card could not be read whenever you insert your game card on Switch? It could be an annoying issue that may piss you off especially when you’re in the mood of playing your favourite game on this gaming console. However, there could be a dozen of reasons for the same and for that, we have curated this quick guide where we will talk briefly about how to fix the game card that could not be read error on Nintendo Switch. So without wasting any time further, let us take look at the fixes-
1- Re-insert the card
If you’re facing the game card could not be read error on your Nintendo Switch, then the very first thing you need to do is to take out the card and re-insert it. However, before you insert it, ensure that you take a clean cloth and wipe it all carefully. Most of the time when it catches an error, it is either due to some dirt particle on your card or you haven’t placed the card well. So check well if there’s something like this. You also need to clean and check the game card slot. And if yes, clean it again and insert it. Make sure that you do not use water while cleaning it out.
2- Clean out the cache
The cache may completely bog down your system if you do not clean it timely. And it may lead to issues such as the card could not be read on your switch console. Thus, it is always good to keep clearing the cache timely. And if you’re not sure about the process, don’t worry, following are the steps to be completed-
- First, go to Settings.
- Navigate to System Settings.
- Now select the System Tab option.
- From the following, tap on Formatting Options.
- Now Hover to Reset Cache.
- You will be given the option of choosing the user profile. Tap on your preferred ones.
- Click Reset.
3- Update Firmware
Using the latest firmware version of your Nintendo switch is an action that is needless to say. You will have to keep it up to date in order to use it without facing any hassles. And if you think it is a too technical task, then you’re mistaken as with these easy steps, you can update the Nintendo Switch firmware in a minute-
- From your home screen, tap on Settings.
- Now go to System.
- Navigate to the System Update option.
- Now the firmware will start getting updated. Wait for a few minutes until the process is completed.
- Once done, reset the system.
4- Restart your Nintendo Switch
Although it is something that you would do first, if you haven’t done it yet, then try restarting your Nintendo Switch. Once you restart any device or gaming console, it will re-initialize the hardware components, and if you were getting the error due to that, it will fix it up. So following is the process to complete the restart process-
- First, find the power button of your Nintendo Switch and press it.
- Now tap on the Open Power option.
- Now tap on Restart.
With the following steps, you will be able to restart your Nintendo Switch in a minute. Once you do it and you still aren’t able to fix the issue, then you can try removing the game card and turning off the switch. Once it is turned off, remove the plug from the power supply and re-insert the card and turn it on.
5- Remove your Headphones
Now you must be thinking why do this step as it has nothing to do with the card reader. Well, although it may sound a little off-beat, if you notice, you will see that your headphone’s auxiliary port will be located next to your game card slot, and it could be a possibility that your card reader is interfering with the card reader slot and it is showing an error. Thus, to fix this and to check if the problem is with the slot, you must remove your headphones from the slot and re-insert the card and see if it works.
6- Check for the game updates
Other than updating the firmware of your Nintendo Switch, it is also vital to check for game updates, if any and update them. If you’re using an outdated version of a game, it may also cause this error, and for that, the following are the steps to follow in order to keep them updated-
- Go to the home page. Now you will find all the games.
- Now select the games that you wish to update.
- Now select the -/+ button given on your screen.
- Go to Software Update.
- Now tap on Via the internet option given.
- Wait for some time until your chosen games start getting updated.
7- Contact the customer support
Assuming that you have tried all these methods given here and nothing became favourable for you, it is recommended that you contact customer support at Nintendo. You can reach out to them via multiple options given in your manual. Contact them and see what they suggest. In most cases, it may be a faulty hardware problem and will be fixed by getting repaired or replaced.
Wrapping up,
So it was the guide that says all about fixing the game card could not be read error on your Nintendo switch. All these methods are tried and tested and thus, you can read them all and trust them without any issues. However, as we always say, if you still find any difficulty in the same, please comment below your query and our team will get back to you asap.
FAQ
1- Can you fix a Nintendo Switch game card?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to fix a Nintendo Switch game card. However, you must figure out if the problem lies in your game card or in the game slot. For that, you can try replacing the game card and see if the issue still persists. If yes, then the problem is with the game card slot and not with your card. But if not, then the issue is with your game card and you can either get replaced if it has been less than 30 days of purchase.
2- How much does it cost to fix a Nintendo Switch card reader?
The cost of your Nintendo Switch card reader repair will depend on the issue that is found. Also, it is advisable to get it fixed by Nintendo itself as it will be the safest way out. Giving an estimate, you will have to bear the cost of $50- $265 depending on the issue. Also, if you bear your own shipping expense, you can cut down the shipping cost.
3- How can I clean a Nintendo Switch card reader slot?
To clean your Nintendo Switch card reader slot, you must make sure that you use a clean and soft cloth and wipe it with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use water or anything else for the same as it may damage the card. Also, if you go for a microfiber cloth, it will be the best.