Nintendo of America

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Game Boy Sticky Button Troubleshooting

Important Note: If you are using a Game Boy Advance SP, please click here for instructions on cleaning the buttons. If you are using a Game Boy micro, please click here.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Turn off the Game Boy. Remove the batteries or unplug the AC Adapter.
  2. Get a clean toothbrush (no toothpaste), a cup of warm tap water (not too hot, no need for boiling water), and a paper towel. DO NOT pour or submerge the unit in any type of liquid.

    The following steps should be performed with the buttons facing down so no liquid drips into the Game Boy.

    1. Slightly dip the toothbrush in the hot water (the toothbrush should not be dripping wet) and scrub the area around the buttons.
    2. Work the bristles down around the sides of the buttons.
    3. After cleaning the buttons, dry off the unit with a paper towel.

  3. Let the unit air dry (screen down) for at least a couple of hours.
  4. Test the Game Boy for proper response.
  5. Repeat the process if necessary.

If you have tried these steps and your system is still experiencing problems, your system will need to be repaired or replaced. Because this particular problem is caused by foreign material, it is considered physical damage and not covered under Nintendo's warranty. If your Nintendo product is within the warranty period, please call our Consumer Service department at 1-800-255-3700 to discuss available repair options. If your Nintendo product is more than a year old, please use the links below for repair options: