How to Fix a PS2 Disc Read Error

The PlayStation 2 (PS2) has one fairly common problem that has frustrated gamers for decades. Thankfully, plenty of solutions to the PS2 disc read error can help you get back in the game.

What Causes a PS2 Disc Read Error?

As the name implies, a PS2 Disc Read Error occurs when the PS2 cannot read the disc you insert into the drive. The PS2 will usually try for a few minutes to read the disc before displaying the error.

There are plenty of reasons why a PS2 cannot read a disc. Usually, it involves either the disc or reading laser inside the drive is dirty. Sometimes, the disc is damaged, and its data isn’t readable. Finally, in older devices, the laser may be weakening and about to fail.

Solve a PS2 Disc Read Error

If you do encounter a PS2 disc reader error, there are a few things you can try to get the console to read the discs.

1. Eject and clean the disc. Look for dust and scratches. If you’re having trouble seeing them, turn the disc sideways near a light source.

2. Use a disc repair kit. If the disc is damaged, you can try a disc repair kit to repair any damage and get the disc working again.

3. Try a different disc. If you didn’t see any obvious damage, try a different disc to see if it plays. If it does, try additional discs to make sure the first disc is the problem, rather than the PS2.

4. Use tape to read blue or purple discs. When multiple discs aren’t playing, try to see if there’s a pattern. Are they all the same color? That might indicate a problem with the laser. If you're having a problem with only the blue/purple discs, using tape may make it possible to read the blue/purple discs.

5. Use a lens-cleaning disc. Should it seem like the laser, and not the discs is the source of the problem, you can try a lens-cleaning disc. If the laser is just dusty, the cleaner might be able to clear things up.

6. Use compressed air. You can also try a can of compressed air, like many offices use to clean keyboards, to blow excess dust out of the PS2. Open the DVD drive, and spray the air inside. Be careful not to turn the can upside down or get the straw lodged in the console.

7. Disassemble your PS2. If you're feeling especially brave, you can always try disassembling the PS2 and cleaning the laser manually. This can be fairly difficult and time-consuming, so you should probably be confident in your repair skills before trying this method.

8. Replace your PS2. Finally, when the error persists across multiple discs, and cleaning the PS2 laser doesn’t seem do to the trick, you may need to consider the possibility that the laser is failing. While it may be possible to replace it, replacing the entire PS2 is probably more cost-effective. They are no longer being manufactured, but you can find them used and refurbished.