How To Fix N64 Reset Button: Quickly Repair Nintendo 64 Console

The console I'm working on below wasn't dusty. The culprit was what looked like old soda. My best guess is that something spilled on the reset button and dried out over time, leaving it gunky enough to stop working entirely. Honestly, this is an easy fix. Grab a 4.5mm gamebit opener, and you can have it sorted out pretty quickly.

6 Easy Steps to Fix Your N64 Reset Button

The Table of Contents

Tools needed to perform this repair are:

1. 4.5 mm Game Bit Opener
2. Q-tip or toothbrush
3. Rubbing Alcohol
4. 409 cleaner or something similar.
5. Paper Towel

Step 1: Open the console.

1. Flip the console over and use a 4.5 mm gamebit screwdriver to remove the six screws from the bottom panel.
2. Lift the top shell straight up with caution to reveal the internal components.

Step 2: Locate and remove the reset button.

• Turn the top shell over to access the underside. Locate the two plastic tabs on either side of the reset button's base.
• Squeeze the tabs inward toward the center. Then, push the button out through the top of the shell.
• If the button is stuck because of grime, use a small amount of 90% isopropyl alcohol around the edges. This will help loosen the residue.

Step 3: Clean

1. Use a cotton swab or toothbrush dipped in 90% isopropyl alcohol. Scrub the inside of the button housing to remove grime.
2. Clean the edges of the button itself until all residue is gone.

Step 4: Test the reset button.

1. Snap the reset button back into its slot on the top shell until the tabs click into place. Press it several times to confirm that it springs back freely and without friction.
2. Before final assembly, check the white reset switch on the internal motherboard. If it feels stiff, use a drop of isopropyl alcohol or electronic contact cleaner.
3. Then, click it repeatedly to remove any internal oxidation.
4. Place the top shell back onto the base, flip the unit over, and reinstall the six 4.5mm screws.

Step 5: Clean the Cartridge Slot

1. Clean the cartridge slot before reassembling. For heavy buildup or oxidation, use fine-grit sandpaper with a gentle touch.
2. This will help clear the pins, as shown in the video. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure.
3. For the last step, dip a toothbrush in 90%+ isopropyl alcohol. Use it to scrub off any leftover dust and debris.
4. Conduct a visual inspection to ensure the slot is clear before closing the console.

Step 6: Reassemble

1. Place the top shell over the motherboard. Ensure that the power and reset buttons fit securely.
2. Secure the unit by reinstalling the six 4.5 mm screws into the bottom panel. Finally, slide the power switch.
3. Then, press the reset button. This checks if they move freely and haven't shifted during assembly.

Here is our how-to video covering all 6 steps.

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