What to do if your PS4 isn't reading discs properly

It's throwback Thursday, and you're eager to dive back into a game you haven't played in awhile, like Sims 2: Castaway. But when you get ready to start, you realize that your PS4™ isn't reading discs anymore. Annoying, right?

Before you kick your gaming console to the curb (or just kick it repeatedly), we've got some simple fixes for you to try.

At Asurion, we understand how important tech is to making your life more fun and convenient. From troubleshooting to repairs, we've got you covered. Here's why your PS4 won't read discs and how to fix it.

Why your PS4 may not be reading discs

There are a variety of reasons your PS4 isn't recognizing your discs. Here are some of the most common ones.

You have a minor console issue

This is the best possible type of issue you can have when you see that error message. It's a momentary hiccup that you can usually solve by restarting your PlayStation®.

You have a game disc problem

If your disc is cracked, scratched, or outright defective, your PS4 might not be able to read it.

You have a software glitch

The error could stem from your software not working properly, usually because you forgot to update it.

You have faulty hardware

Internal damage stemming from a drop or fall can knock the delicate parts inside the console out of place—or worse—break them, requiring a PlayStation disc drive repair.

It’s not game over—yet

If your console stops working, we’ll handle the repairs. Make an appointment, or visit your nearest store today.

Schedule a repair

How to fix an unrecognizable PS4 disc

Just like your favorite choose-your-own-adventure book, there are a few routes you can take to solve an unrecognizable PS4 disc error. We recommend this one because it's easy and it works.

1. Restart your PS4

Restarting your console clears most glitches and allows it to turn on correctly. To restart your PS4, hold down the PS button on the controller and select Power > Restart PS4. After restarting, try the game disc again.

2. Make sure your PS4 game disc is clean

The source of all your pain and suffering—okay, not all of it—could just be a dirty disc. Eject the disc, and check for any scratches or scuffs. If it's dirty, clean it with a dry microfiber cloth. Then try inserting it again.

If the error message continues, try testing other clean game discs. If they give you the same error, that's a sign you have a system or hardware problem.

3. Update your software in Safe Mode

Safe Mode is a feature that lets you start and use your console with the bare minimum of programs it needs to work. Updating the software in this mode is a great way to make sure everything's current while temporarily stopping any system issues that could be causing your PS4 disc read error.

To update your PS4 in Safe Mode, follow these steps:

1. Press the Power button to shut down the console.
2. Press and hold the Power button until you hear two beeps.
3. Once prompted on screen, connect the controller to the console by using the USB cable, and press the PS® button on the controller. Once the console has entered Safe Mode, choose Update System Software.
4. After the console's software updates, it'll restart. Once the console is on, insert a disc to see if the same error appears.

4. Factory reset your PlayStation 4

The last stop on your console troubleshooting journey is a factory reset. This kind of reset will delete your game files and restore your console back to its default settings.

Saving, exporting, and factory resetting can be a frustrating process—but it doesn't have to be. We've got an easy-to-follow guide to help you factory reset your PlayStation—without losing your game progress.

5. Talk to an expert