How to Fix a Wii without a Trip to the Service Center

Everything breaks down eventually. Whether a product is of marginal quality or top of the line, it's going to break one day. It's inevitable, and Nintendo game systems are no different. Many Nintendo owners are looking for ways to save money by learning how to fix a Wii themselves. Here are a few hints to help you to fix your own system.

Wii Error Codes

The first indication that most Wii users have that their systems are malfunctioning is an error code, indicating that the system is not operating as expected and is either malfunctioning or getting ready to. Some of the most commonly encountered error codes, and how to fix a Nintendo Wii by responding to these codes, are discussed below.

* Error Codes 110210 through 110213: These codes typically display when a Wii system is updated to 2.0U. Any one of these codes indicates a hardware problem. If one of these codes displays, take your Wii to a Nintendo service center.* Error Code 51130: Don't panic when this code displays. Usually pressing the "Retry" button several times will fix Wii problems of this type, and the console will return to normal operation.* Error Codes 32002 and 52030: These codes display when there is a problem with the Wii's router. Possible solutions are changing the router channel from 1 to 11 or changing the security type from WEP to WPA.* Error Code 220602: Usually another common router problem. Try to correct the problem by moving the Wii closer to the wireless router. If this doesn't work, switching the primary and secondary DNS servers on the console may fix Nintendo Wii's problem.

Wii Disc Read Error

This error is indicated by a message similar to "Disc could not be read" or "Unable to read disc." This is a commonly experienced error. Discs become unreadable sometimes after the Wii console has been dropped or jolted. Fixing Wii problems of this type is usually resolved by unplugging the console and allowing it to set for a few minutes. Plug it back in. If it works, you're good to go. If this is not effective, you may need to have the systems professionally serviced.

Wii Remote Problems

While error codes and disc errors are common, they are not the only problems that can arise. Wii users often can be heard complaining about the Wii remote. The device is undoubtedly revolutionary and does some impressive things, but it is also a component that often needs fixing. If your Wii remote is not working properly, try some of the potential fixes listed below.

* Make sure the sensor bar is properly inserted and tightly secured to the back area of the Wii.* Place the sensor bar where you indicated it should be located during Wii setup, either above or below your TV.* Change batteries. When the remote's batteries are low, you may encounter problems even though the remote indicates that batteries are low.* Other signal generators such as cordless keyboards and wireless telephones can cause the Wii remote to operate improperly.* Make sure that you are between three feet and ten feet from the console when using the remote, to ensure optimum operation.* Remove any obstruction that is between the Wii console, the sensor bar, and the Wii remote.* Infra-red light sources can also cause the remote to operate improperly. Don't use it in sunlight, near a candle, or near a fireplace, which are infra-red sources.

There is no question that the Nintendo Wii is an incredible electronic device that can do some amazing things and provide hours upon hours of entertainment. It is, however, a manufactured device and as such will break down occasionally. In most cases, it is the prudent choice to have your Wii professionally serviced, but when you know how to fix a Wii the simple attempts at repair given above may work and can't possible hurt your Wii system. If they do work, you've saved time and money.