It's Easy to Learn How to Fix Xbox 360 e74 Error Problems

So you've experienced an Xbox 360 e74 error. Before we give you a few tips on how to handle that error, let's discuss it a bit. The e74 error is a very common problem for Xbox 360 owners. There are probably over 2 million gamers experiencing this error right now, all over the planet. The problem, as with most Xbox 360 problems, is overheating. After a long period of continuous game playing, the internal components of the Xbox 360 can reach temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Temperatures that high can melt the graphic processing unit's connection to the motherboard, and the system will not work again until that component is repaired.

Some Xbox 360 techies believe that the Xbox 360 e74 problem is one which involves the scaler video chip. It is known that when this chip is overheated it will cause a 360 e74 error to display. Many factors can cause overheating, and the age of the system can be a factor as it has had more exposure to dust, dirt, and other environmental abuse. It is rather disheartening, however, to find so many conflicting methods suggested for fixing the problem.

Before you panic and start making outlandish repairs to your Xbox 360 console, make sure that the system is being operated in an area where it received adequate air circulation. Check to see if any vents are blocked by dust of particulates. Vacuum the vents if necessary to clean them. Don't place the console in an area where it is cramped up against other heat generating electronics. The system needs to breathe. Many Xbox360 e74 problems are resolved by these simple housekeeping tactics.

If cleaning the unit and providing adequate ventilation does not solve the problem, you're left with only two options: fix it yourself, or send it to a Microsoft repair center for repairs. Be advised, however, that if your system is no longer under warranty and you send it to Microsoft, you'll end up paying around $150 for repairs costs and shipping. You'll also be without your Xbox 360 for a period of approximately seven weeks. The alternative is to fix it yourself.

If you have at least the basic handyman skills, and can handle a screwdriver, you stand a good chance of fixing the Xbox 360 error code e74 problem yourself. There are a number of guides available online. Some are great and others not so good. The best one that I have found was recommended to me by gamers who had used it. It's called the James Dean's Xbox 360 3 Red Light Fix Guide. It's easy to use. No special tools are required. If you've learned how to fix Xbox 360 e74 errors, chances are that you have everything at home needed to fix the problem. Doing it by yourself can save a lot of money and time. Don't resort to a Microsoft fix, unless it's absolutely necessary.