The Nintendo Switch remains one of the top gaming platforms, but as a 6-year-old (or even older) system, its hardware is starting to show its age.
In a recent post, I highlighted the value of buying a Nintendo Switch in 2023 and 2024, but there are some things owners need to be wary of, particularly the USB ports on the dock.
In this comprehensive guide from Gaming Power Up, you’ll learn how to address the issue of Nintendo Switch dock USB ports not working. Follow the provided DIY steps or consider reaching out to Nintendo for assistance.
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Quick Gaming Answer
To fix Nintendo Switch dock USB port issues, try power cycling the console, updating the firmware of the dock, checking the hardware on another USB port, or seeking assistance from a third-party repair service. If your console is under warranty, setting up an official repair with Nintendo is also a viable option. Read further to learn how to do it.
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Why Are Nintendo Switch Dock USB Ports Not Working?
The USB ports on the Nintendo Switch dock usually work without problems.
However, Nintendo is aware of certain hardware failures that may appear. These are the three most common reasons why Nintendo Switch dock’s USB ports stop working without further notice.
1. Hardware or USB Connection Issues
When the USB ports on the Nintendo Switch dock are not working, it is often due to hardware or USB connection issues. One possible reason could be problems with the physical ports themselves.
Over time, the ports may develop loose connections or become damaged, which can lead to a loss of functionality. It’s worth inspecting the ports closely to see if there are any visible signs of damage or if they feel loose when inserting a USB device.
Another potential cause could be an issue with the USB cable connecting the dock to the Nintendo Switch console. If the cable is faulty or not properly connected, it can result in a failure to establish a stable connection between the dock and the console.
Certain hardware issues start to affect Nintendo Switch consoles after 4 or 5 years, such as Nintendo Switch blowing air.
2. Outdated Nintendo Switch Firmware
Outdated firmware on the Nintendo Switch console can also contribute to the USB ports on the dock not working properly. If the firmware is outdated, it may lack compatibility with certain USB devices or fail to recognize them altogether.
Updating the firmware to the latest version is crucial as it often includes bug fixes, performance improvements, and enhanced compatibility with various peripherals.
On top of that, outdated Nintendo Switch software may also lead to other bugs, such as Nintendo Switch corrupted data.
3. You Are Using a Non-compatible USB Device
Another reason why the USB ports on the Nintendo Switch dock may not be working is the use of a non-compatible USB device. The dock has specific requirements for USB devices, such as power output and data transfer speeds. If you connect a USB device that does not meet these compatibility standards, the ports may not function correctly.
I know that some third-party Nintendo Switch controllers look great, but we all know how Nintendo acts against unofficial products. If you can use original Nintendo controllers, but cannot use certain devices, then there’s a compatibility problem going on.
Where Can I Fix The Nintendo Switch USB Port?
There are three options to fix your Nintendo Switch USB ports when they break.
Below, I’ll elaborate on the three solutions Nintendo players have at hand, including their pros and cons.
1. Fix the Nintendo Switch USB Ports at Home
Some technically savvy users opt for fixing the USB Ports of the Nintendo Switch dock at home.
While this may be a great solution for some users, I do not recommend you do this at home, mostly if you don’t know what you are doing.
You may end up damaging the USB ports even more or entirely breaking the console’s dock.
We at Gaming Power Up do not recommend DIY technical fixes of gaming consoles, not for Nintendo Switch fans, and not for Nintendo Switch USB ports.
2. Set up a Nintendo Repair
If you prefer professional assistance, you can set up a repair with Nintendo directly. Nintendo offers repair services for their products, including the Nintendo Switch.
This option ensures that trained technicians will handle the repair, and it may be more suitable for those who are not comfortable with DIY repairs or don’t have the necessary skills and tools.
In my experience, the best way to repair Nintendo Switch dock USB Ports not working is by setting up an official Nintendo Repair.
3. Send the Console to Third-Party Technical Service
Alternatively, you can choose to send your Nintendo Switch console to a third-party technical service for USB port repair. There are independent repair shops or services that specialize in console repairs, including the Nintendo Switch.
These services can be found locally or online. Check reviews, ask for recommendations, and inquire about their expertise with Nintendo Switch repairs. Be sure to consider any warranty or guarantee they offer for their repairs.
Third-party Switch technical service locations are a nice alternative if you can’t ship your dock to Nintendo, but then again, doing your own research is imperative to prevent any further problems.
5 Methods to Fix Nintendo Switch Dock USB Ports Not Working
Before attempting to fix broken USB ports on Nintendo Switch’s dock, make sure that you are not using an incompatible/damaged device.
Try to plug in the device on another gaming system or even your PC and see if it works.
If the problem is indeed related to the Switch, then check out these five solutions to learn how to fix Nintendo Switch dock USB ports not working.
Method #1: Power Cycle the Nintendo Switch
Some Reddit users said that power cycling the Nintendo Switch console is a great solution to get rid of small firmware bugs on the Switch.
To power cycle the Nintendo Switch, follow these steps:
- Grab the Nintendo Switch console and locate the POWER button.
- Press the POWER button for at least 12 seconds.
- The Nintendo Switch console will shut down. Leave it like that for 5 minutes, and turn it on again.
- Now, see if the USB ports on the dock are working. Otherwise, try the following solution.
Method #2: Update the Switch and the Dock Firmware to the Latest Version
The Nintendo Switch dock has its own independent firmware that can be updated to prevent certain bugs, such as USB ports not working.
First, let’s update the Nintendo Switch console.
To check for firmware updates, navigate to the System Settings on the Nintendo Switch console. Select “System” from the menu and then choose “System Update.” If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.
Now, let’s update the Nintendo Switch dock. To update the Nintendo Switch Dock, go to System Settings, select “System,” and navigate to “Update Dock.”
Once the firmware is up to date, test the USB ports on the dock again to see if the issue has been resolved. If the answer is negative, move on to the following fix.
Method #3: Check the Hardware Device on Another USB Port
I cannot stress this enough – sometimes, when the USB ports of the Switch’s dock are not working, it means you are using a device that is not compatible with the console.
If, for instance, you have an Xbox console or a PS4, try to connect the device to the other console to see if it works.
If the device is not working, then the problem is not related to the dock, but to the controller (or device) you wish to use.
Also, try to plug in original Nintendo peripherals to the USB ports on the dock and see if they work. This will give you a wider comprehension of the issue you are facing.
Method #4: Take Your Switch Dock to Third-Party Technical Service
Some might trust third-party technical services, and some might not. The truth is, some third-party technical service locations are very reliable, and they can get the USB Ports problem solved quickly enough.
If you want to get the USB ports repaired quickly, then taking the console to a third-party technical service is not a bad idea. However, there are a few things to have in mind before choosing an unofficial technical service provider:
1. Research and Reviews: Conduct thorough research on potential service providers. Look for reviews and feedback from previous customers to assess their reputation and reliability. Online forums and gaming communities can also provide helpful recommendations.
2. Specialization and Expertise: Choose a service that specializes in Nintendo Switch repairs and has experience with dock repairs specifically. Technicians with expertise in repairing the dock’s USB ports are more likely to diagnose and fix the issue accurately.
3. Cost and Warranty: Inquire about the estimated repair cost, turnaround time, and any warranty or guarantee offered by the third-party service. A warranty or guarantee can provide added peace of mind regarding the quality of their workmanship.
Method #5: Set up a Nintendo Switch Dock Official Repair (On Warranty Period)
Nintendo’s warranty for the Nintendo Switch console is available for 12 months after the purchase of the console.
If your console is under warranty, they will fix the USB Ports for free. Otherwise, you may still ship your console to Nintendo, and they will probably replace the dock.
This is how you set up a Nintendo Switch dock official repair:
1. Go to Nintendo’s website and log into your Nintendo Account.
2. Complete the suggested troubleshooting steps provided by Nintendo for your specific issue. This step is crucial as they will ask you several times if you tried updating the console, restarting it, etc.
3. Enter the serial number of your console to set up a repair.
4. Enter your dock’s details, warranty status, and repair information. Agree to the terms and conditions, confirm the repair order, and make any necessary payment. In my experience, Nintendo will not tell you the amount to pay before checking the dock of the console.
5. Ship the console to Nintendo (with the dock), and constantly monitor the Nintendo Repair Center to receive updates on the repair process.
Setting up a Nintendo Switch Dock Repair takes from 7 to 14 days or even more, depending on where you live.
Either way, this is the best solution in case your console is still under warranty. It can also work great if your console is out of the warranty period, but prepare to pay some money.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair Nintendo Switch Dock USB Ports Not Working?
The cost of repairing Nintendo Switch Dock USB ports not working varies depending on the method you used to fix them. All prices below are in USD.
- DIY USB Ports fix – from $15 to $25. In this case, you should have the necessary tools and knowledge to fix the Switch’s USB ports by yourself.
- Third-party technical service – from $30 to $40. Provided you choose a reliable technical service provided, turnaround times are very quick and the process can be completed quite easily.
- Official Nintendo Repair under warranty – free.
- Official Nintendo Repair outside warranty period – from $25 to $40. Keep in mind that the process can take as long as 2 to 3 weeks.
- If the issue is related to a software problem – free if you follow our solutions.
Always keep in mind that, according to the Nintendo Store, a brand-new Nintendo Switch dock costs $60. It is never worth paying more than $50 for a Switch dock repair when you can buy a new one for $60 or less, if you buy it used.
Gaming Summary: That’s How We Fix Nintendo Switch Dock USB Ports
It’s a real downer when the USB ports on your Nintendo Switch dock refuse to cooperate, but thanks to our solutions, you can now tackle and resolve this issue on your own.
The following summary shows you the best ways to fix Nintendo Switch dock USB ports not working, according to our original research on Gaming Power Up:
- Method #1: Power Cycle the Nintendo Switch
- Method #2: Update the Switch and the Dock Firmware to the Latest Version
- Method #3: Check the Hardware Device on Another USB Port
- Method #4: Take Your Switch Dock to Third-Party Technical Service
- Method #5: Set up a Nintendo Switch Dock Official Repair (On Warranty Period)
Gamers Also Ask
Did Nintendo Stop Selling Nintendo Switch Docks?
No, Nintendo has not stopped selling Nintendo Switch docks. The docks are still available for purchase as separate accessories through official Nintendo retailers, authorized resellers, and online marketplaces.