Topic: Factory reset without going into system settings?

Hi everyone,
New here but I could really use the help. So I bought myself a used 3DS XL that has the "error has occurred" issue. I'd like to do a factory reset so I can system update but I can't get into system settings. I have also tried the button combination (LB+RB+UP+A) while booting the device but I get stuck on a black screen .

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!

I would suggest removing the SD card and disabling the wi-fi, as they appear to be things that can cause errors upon booting, but if neither of those work, you're probably going to have to send it off to Nintendo, as you won't be able to do anything if you can't reach any form of menu.

Tried removing the SD card and turning off the WIFI. Still black screen when i use the button combination to boot.

The only solutions left I can think of would involve opening up and seeing if anything is wrong internally, but it may be best not to mess with that.

Unfortunately I think you're going to have to return it to Nintendo.

Just had a look for you and got this is from Nintendo's own support.

What to Do:
Press and hold the POWER Button down until the system resets; this may take some time.
Once the system is powered down, press the POWER Button once to turn it back on.

Good luck.

Thanks for replying. I know how to get off the black screen the problem is it shouldn't be going to that black screen in the first place. When you start the device while holding the button combination it should take you to a system update but instead mine goes to black screen. I need a way to factory reset the device without having to get to system settings.

I don't believe there is a way to do that. Removing the internal battery for a while "MAY" do something, but I don't know for sure.

Either way I don't think a factory reset will solve this black screen problem, most likely a system firmware or hardware problem...

Any idea where the internal battery is? I couldn't find anything on google about it.

You have to unscrew the back casing off your 3DS, the battery is obvious when you do it, no need to go down to the motherboard etc.

I meant internal one, I've removed that one and it doesn't seem to reset anything. Thought there might be another one somewhere inside.

I don't know if the 3DS has a CMOS battery or equivalent...

If you really wanted to dig that deep, it'd probably look like a clock battery, or CR2032 battery somewhere on the motherboard, but I have a feeling there won't be one...

Hmm yea i got down to the motherboard and didn't see anything like it. Seems like I'll be selling this 3DS then

Have you called Nintendo?

Will be calling them on Monday but I'm sure they will just say the device has a fault please send it in for repair.

Hi, my son switched on his 3ds xl this morning and the touchscreen is black, backlight is still on and can still head sounds when touching it, but no image, can anyone help? Thanks