How to Fix Nintendo Switch Game Card Error [Full Guide]

The Nintendo Switch is a very popular game console. However, you might encounter problems while using it, such as being unable to start the game, the game card not reading, getting “Nothing Insert in the Game Card Slot”, etc.

In most cases, these problems are nothing to worry about, as they can usually be fixed with a few simple steps.

This post explains the causes of Nintendo Switch game cartridge errors and provides several common solutions on how to fix Nintendo Switch game card error.

Common Causes of Nintendo Switch Game Card Errors

When your Nintendo Switch game cartridge encounters problems, it may be due to the following reasons:

• Dust on the game card or card slot: Dust or dirt on the game cartridge or cartridge slot can affect the Switch’s reading function.
• Damaged or scratched game card: Scratches or other physical damage to the game card can affect its functionality.
• Incorrect game card insertion: If the game card is not inserted correctly, the Switch will not recognize it.
• Outdated Nintendo Switch system version: Sometimes, outdated Nintendo Switch system software can cause the Switch to be unable to read a game card correctly.

After knowing the reasons behind the game card error Switch, here are some solutions you can try.

Method 1: Restart the Console

Sometimes, the Nintendo Switch may experience temporary system errors during operation, preventing game cartridges from being recognized correctly.

Restarting the console clears the system cache and reloads the system, which can help resolve game cartridge errors caused by system anomalies.

The steps are as follows:

Step 1: Press and hold the Power button on the top right of the console for approximately 3 seconds.

Step 2: Once the menu appears on the screen, select Power Options > Restart.

Wait for the console to restart automatically. Then insert the game cartridge again to test.

Method 2: Remove and Reinsert the Card

When using a Nintendo Switch, if the game card is not inserted securely or is inserted incorrectly, the console may not recognize the card. Removing the game card and reinserting it can effectively resolve issues caused by poor contact.

Here are the steps to remove a game card from your Nintendo Switch:

Step 1: Open the game card slot cover located on the top right of the Nintendo Switch console.

Step 2: Gently press down on the inserted game card until you hear a click.

Step 3: Release the game card, and it will partially eject.

Step 4: Remove the game card from the slot and close the slot cover.

Method 3: Clean the Game Card and Console Slot

If the metal contact points on a game cartridge are covered in dust or dirt, it may prevent the console from properly recognizing the cartridge. Cleaning the game cartridge can effectively remove these interfering factors.

Please be extra careful during this process. Prepare a clean, soft cloth and gently wipe the gold contact points on the back of the game cartridge. After ensuring the cartridge is clean, insert it back into the console for testing.

On the other hand, if dust or debris accumulates in the Nintendo Switch’s cartridge slot, it can cause errors with the game cartridge.

Cleaning the cartridge slot can ensure good contact between the cartridge and the slot, thus resolving the problem.

Method 4: Check for Updates

Sometimes, Nintendo Switch game cartridges may experience errors, possibly because the console system or game software is not running the latest updates.

Ensuring that both the system and game software are up to date can resolve compatibility issues caused by outdated software.

Step 1: Go to the Home menu of your Nintendo Switch.

Step 2: Open System Settings on your Nintendo Switch’s Home screen.

Step 3: Click the System tab. Here you can see the current system version of your Switch. If it isn’t the latest version, click System Update to find and install the latest version.

Once you’ve installed the latest Switch system update, power on your console to check if the issue has been resolved.

Method 5: Reset the Cache of the Nintendo Switch

If your Switch is experiencing game card errors, sometimes resetting the cache can help resolve the problem.

Here are the steps to reset your Switch’s cache:

Step 1: Select System Settings from the home menu. Then click System.

Step 2: Select Formatting Options > Clear Cache.

Step 3: Select the user profile that you wish to clear cached data for, and then select Reset to confirm.

This will delete saved IDs, passwords, cookies, browsing history, etc., but it will not affect your downloaded games or game save data.

Method 6: Contact Support

If similar game card errors occur with multiple games, the problem may lie with the console’s card reader.

This is especially true if the problem persists after you’ve tried standard troubleshooting steps such as cleaning the game card and restarting the console.

To avoid further damage to the device, it is recommended to contact Nintendo customer support as soon as possible for professional repair assistance.

Switch Game Card Error FAQ

Bottom Line

This article provides you with 6 methods to fix game card errors on the Nintendo Switch, including restarting the console, cleaning the game card, checking for updates, and contacting support.