Using the 3DS's Safe Mode

This guide demonstrates how to use SAFE_MODE, a...

Nintendo Nintendo 3DS Very easy 2 minutes Guide 160620

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This attributed iFixit guide is displayed through Fixonic's recorded commercial API permission. iFixit remains the independent source and author of the procedure.

Guide overview

Before you begin

This guide demonstrates how to use SAFE_MODE, a 3DS family recovery feature which can fix damaged system titles, as well as other software issues by forcing a system update. It's demonstrated here on a 2DS XL, but the process is the same for all 3DS (and 2DS) systems.

Step 1

Booting safe mode

⌕

Ensure the console is powered off
Hold the (L) + (R) + (A) + (D-Pad Up) buttons
Keep these buttons held down until the console boots in the next step
While still holding the other buttons, press the power button

Step 2

Updating the System

⌕

You should boot into a "system update" screen. Click OK and accept the prompts
If there's no working internet connection configured on your 3ds, you'll have the option to set one up now

Step 3

Repair step

⌕

When the update finishes, the console will automatically turn off