How to Fix Disc Reading Issues on a PlayStation 4

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

It can become very annoying when your PlayStation 4 won't read a disk.

This guide will walk you through the basics, making sure it isn't just the one disk, and making sure there's no software problems that can cause this problem.

2. Test Other Disk

It is important to test your PlayStation 4 using a different disk.

• Try playing an audio CD, a game, or a movie disk. Use a different disk than the one that had problems.
• Make sure it plays properly.

3. Safe Mode

Safe Mode allows you to start the system with the most basic functions only. The Safe Mode menu options may help you correct issues and allow your PlayStation 4 to start normally.

1. Connect the DualShock 4 controller with the USB cable and press the PS button on the controller.
2. Turn off the PlayStation 4. The power indicator will blink for a few moments before turning off.
3. Once the PlayStation 4 is off, press and hold the power button on the console.
4. Release the power button only after you've heard two beeps: one when you first press, and another seven seconds later.
   

1. If successful, the system will boot to Safe Mode. Try again if you didn't get it the first time.
   

4. Rebuild Database

Rebuild Database will scan the drive and create a new database of all content.

1. Once you get to Safe Mode, go to Rebuild Database and press X. None of your installed games or features will be affected.
   

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2. The database will be rebuilt, it might take a few hours to rebuild the database will be displayed.
3. Select OK.
4. The screen will go blank while the database is being rebuilt and this could take a few hours depending on the amount of saved content.
   

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2. When the rebuild has finished the console will return to the sign in screen.
3. The rebuild is now complete.

5. Initialization Check

Our next step, normally, to solve this problem involves re-initializing your PlayStation 4. This means removing all downloaded games, and removing all user accounts.

You would need to sign back in, and re-download any games and patches you've downloaded in the past.

6. Safe Mode

Safe Mode allows you to start the system with the most basic functions only. The Safe Mode menu options may help you correct issues and allow your PlayStation 4 to start normally.

1. Connect the DualShock 4 controller with the USB cable and press the PS button on the controller.
2. Turn off the PlayStation 4. The power indicator will blink for a few moments before turning off.
3. Once the PlayStation 4 is off, press and hold the power button on the console.
4. Release the power button only after you've heard two beeps: one when you first press, and another seven seconds later.
   

1. If successful, the system will boot to Safe Mode. Try again if you didn't get it the first time.
   

7. Initialize

Initializing your PlayStation 4 restores it to it's default settings and deletes the saved data on your console and all users from the system.

Choosing to initialize your PS4 will clear the hard drive of data, including downloaded games, saved game data, and anything else you’ve added to the console since buying it. Ensure any data you do not wish to lose has been backed up beforehand.

1. Since you are already in Safe Mode, scroll down and select Initialize PS4.
   

1. Follow the on-screen instructions.

8. What's next?

9. Media Problem

You are having problems with one disk, but not another.

Check the disk you're having problems with for scratches, smudges or gouges.

If you are unable to clean the disk to get it working, you will need to contact the company that made the disk for a replacement.