PS4 (all versions – Fat/Slim/Pro) overheating, unusually loud noise, or the following message appearing when shutting down:
PS4 is too hot. Turn off PS4 and wait for it to cool down
Most common causes:
Dust buildup on the heatsink and vents
Fan not spinning (fan or power rail malfunction)
Dried or worn thermal paste
Airflow obstruction due to pet hair, smoke residue, or environmental buildup
Incorrect reassembly after previous repair
Noise from the front jet engine shutting down
Shutting down immediately after starting a game
Overheat warning
No fan spinning at startup
Random frame drops or lag (thermal throttling)
Hot bottom case or rear grille
Fan suddenly oscillating or starting/stopping
Diagnostic steps
1. External inspection
Check vents for dust buildup
Confirm console location (do not place in an enclosed cabinet)
Check for pet hair, smoke residue, and debris
2. Boot test
Power on while watching the fan:
The boot rotates = fan is working
Clicking or hesitation/no rotation = worn bearings or mechanical fan malfunction
3. Thermal Paste Check
If the PS4 has never been maintained:
The thermal paste is usually dry.
Dust is likely accumulated in the heatsink fins.
4. Heatsink Airflow Check
Common problem: There is a wall of compacted dust between the fan and the heatsink.
Repair Steps
1. Disassembly
(Varies depending on PS4 model)
Remove the top cover
Disconnect the power supply (PS4 fat power supply)
Disconnect the fan connector
Remove the motherboard
Remove the entire cooling assembly
2. Cleaning (Critical Step)
Fan cleaning
Use compressed air + a soft brush
Manually rotate the fan to ensure smooth rotation
If there is a grinding sound → Replace the fan
Ventilators and housing
Thoroughly clean the rear vents and side air intakes
Remove dust (large clumps)
Heater cleaning
Remove the old dust “blanket” from the heatsink
Flush it with air from both directions
3. Thermal Paste Replacement
Remove the old thermal paste from the APU and heatsink with isopropyl alcohol
Apply high-quality thermal paste (Arctic MX-4 / Arctic Silver / Noctua NT-H1)
Ensure it is completely flat and the pressure is even
4. Reassemble the Cooling System
Securely reinstall the heatsink
Ensure all screws (especially pressure screws) are tightened in an X-shape
Carefully reconnect the fan
Reassemble the rest of the console
5. Replace the fan (if the fan is broken)
Replacement time: No rotation; weak or intermittent rotation; bearing noise; burnt smell or discoloration
Parts required: Model-specific fan (PS4 Fat, Slim, and Pro use different connectors)
Replace the fan → Test.
Verification
After reassembly:
Power on the console → the fan should start immediately.
Run a game for 20-30 minutes.
No overheat warning.
The fan temperature rises gradually, not immediately.
Rear exhaust temperature (normal).
System stabilizes under stress.
