Is there anything more annoying than your Xbox console turning off while you’re playing your favorite games? Probably not. Well, if your game forces your Xbox to shut down, pursue the troubleshooting solutions below.
How to fix Xbox turning off by itself when playing games
Check for overheating issues
Check for signs of overheating. Place your console in a well-ventilated area and make sure the fans are working properly. Don’t place the console on a carpet.
Remove any objects on, under, or right next to the console. They can prevent the device from dissipating heat properly.
Your Xbox will turn off automatically if it gets abnormally hot to prevent hardware damage.
If the console gets really hot, unplug the power cable and let it cool down for 60 minutes. Then turn it back on and check if the problem persists.
Check for power supply issues
Make sure the power cable and adapter are working properly. The power supply will shut down if it gets excessively hot.
Check the wall outlet and ensure it’s working as intended. If the outlet is faulty or damaged, the power supply can be suddenly interrupted.
If you’re using a surge protector or extension cord, plug your console’s power cord directly into a wall outlet.
Install the latest updates
If your Xbox turns off unexpectedly due to coding errors, check for updates.
Update your console to the latest version and check if Microsoft solved the problem in the latest Xbox software update.
Don’t forget to restart your console after installing the updates.
Check your power settings
Disable the option that instructs your console to automatically turn off after a given period.
- Turn on your console
- Press the Xbox button on your controller
- Go to Profile & System
- Select Settings
- Then go to General
- Select Power mode & startup
- Go to Options
- Select Turn off after
- Select Don’t turn off automatically
Reset your console
Unexpected console shutdowns can lead to system corruption. The only way to fix the problem is to reset your Xbox to factory settings.
To do that, go to System → Settings → System → Console info → Reset console.
Keep in mind that system corruption can also spread to external storage devices.
Don’t forget to unplug all the peripherals connected to your console before performing a system reset.
After the reset, leave your external storage devices unplugged and check if the issue persists.
For step-by-step instructions on how to reset your Xbox console, go to Microsoft’s support page.
Contact support
If your Xbox shuts down only when you’re playing a specific game, reinstall the game and contact the developer for further help.
For example, many FIFA players complained the game forces Xbox consoles, particularly Xbox Series X models, to shut down unexpectedly.
On the other hand, if your console shuts down randomly, contact Microsoft Support. Maybe some hardware components are faulty.
Why does my Xbox One turn off by itself after a few minutes?
If the console gets too hot due to poor ventilation or blocked cooling vents, it shuts down to protect itself. Make sure to place your Xbox One in a well-ventilated area and keep the vents clear.
Problems with the power supply or the outlet can cause unexpected shutdowns. Try connecting your console to a different power outlet or using a different power supply to see if the issue persists.
Your current power settings can make the console turn off after a period of inactivity. Check the power settings to ensure they are properly configured and that the console isn’t set to automatically turn off.
Defective power buttons or internal components can also cause unexpected shutdowns.
Conclusion
If your Xbox console turns off unexpectedly while playing games:
- Check for overheating issues
- Check for power supply issues
- Install the latest updates
- Check your power settings
- Reset your console
- Contact support
Did you manage to solve the problem? What was the root cause of the issue? Comment down below.
References:
This guide was updated in June 2023.
What do you do if it does over heat and you cant get it to stop overheating? Need to get a new one?
Contact Microsoft Support or visit an authorized repair center.
Most likely, your hardware is faulty.