Super Nintendo Troubleshooting

Note: This troubleshooting page covers the original SNS-001 type 1 model only.

Display is black or distorted

In older models the system requires that you have a game inserted to boot.

If the system still loads to a black screen remove the game pack, turn the power switch to off, insert the game pack and turn the system back on.

Make sure that the cables are connected to their respective ports, if this does not work confirm that the cables and accessories are all Nintendo licensed as the Super Nintendo does not fully support third party products. If none of the above succeed your video cable may have worn out and you may need to purchase a new one.

Problems related to supplying power to the Super Nintendo

The power cable may not have good enough connection, try cleaning it with rubbing alcohol, drying, and trying again. The cable also may have eroded and you may need to replace it, however, this is not likely.

The power switch may become disconnected and need to be reattached. In the worst case the actual power switch may need to be replaced. A guide for this can be found here.

You can no longer continue your progress after shutdown

This issue is due to a battery stored in the game cartridge that is used to store memory even when the game is not inserted. The only way to fix this is to replace the battery, doing this will not restore your saves however it will restore saving functionality.

The system goes to the start screen and stops

The game may have become dirty and needs cleaning. Nintendo recommends that you do not blow on it. Instead use rubbing alcohol and dry before reinserting.

Try cleaning the port on the Super Nintendo System. Make sure it is dry before you power on.

The system does not recognize controller input

If a controller stops working first try testing a known working controller on your system, if it works then the issue is with the controller and it will need to be replaced.

However, if the controller doesn't work the physical controller port may need to be replaced. A guide for this can be found here.