How to Fix a Scratched Video Game

This wikiHow teaches you how to attempt to repair a video game disc that was scratched. Surface-level scratches can often be fixed using a substance like petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or toothpaste, though deeper scratches are impossible to fix. Keep in mind that any repairs to a scratched disc are usually temporary; you'll most likely have to replace the disc at some point.

EditSteps

1. Understand which scratches can be fixed. There are two main data surfaces on a game disc: the surface plastic, which is the plastic layer on the bottom of the disc, and the aluminum storage, which is the reflective part. If the plastic is lightly scratched, the aluminum part may not read correctly, thus causing errors; you may be able to fix this issue by filling the scratches with a solid solution such as Vaseline.^[1]
   
   • If the aluminum surface is scratched, you cannot repair the disc. This happens when the disc is deeply scratched.
   • Deep, circular scratches cannot be fixed. You'll either have to return the game or buy a new copy.
2. Make sure that the game is the problem. If running another disc in your console or computer results in the same error message, the game probably isn't the issue.
   
   • If the disc is scratched but you haven't encountered any errors while using it, don't attempt to repair it.
   • Disc errors can result due to anything from outdated drivers to incompatible software.
   • Be aware that placing a disc in a console or CD drive which scratched your current disc may also result in the second disc being scratched.
3. Gather the necessary equipment. In order to repair your disc while minimizing the potential for damage, you'll need the following items:
   
   • A towel and a flat surface
   • A microfiber cloth (do not use any other cloth such as a paper towel, tissue, or washcloth)
   • Isopropyl alcohol
   • Petroleum jelly, baking soda toothpaste, or disc scratch repair solution (sold at places like Best Buy)
4. Rinse your disc with cold water. This will ensure that there is no surface-level dust, girt, or matter that will further scratch your disc when you buff it. Cold water will not damage your disc.
   
   • Never use hot water, as doing so may damage the disc.
5. Air-dry the disc. Wave the disc back and forth until it is dry.
   
   • Don't wipe down the disc, as doing so can add scratches.
6. Lay your disc on a towel on a flat surface. The disc's bottom (the reflective side) should be face-up.
   
7. Lightly spray the surface of the disc with isopropyl alcohol. This will remove tougher obstacles such as stains.
   
8. Allow the disc to dry. Isopropyl alcohol will evaporate on its own, so you should only need to wait for 20 to 30 minutes.
   
9. Dab some of the petroleum jelly onto the microfiber cloth. This is how you'll apply the jelly to the disc.
   
   • You can use toothpaste for this step as well.
   • If you're using a disc scratch repair kit, you can apply the solution directly to the disc.
10. Gently buff the scratched parts of the disc. Using straight (not circular) motions, rub the jelly from the inside of the disc to the outside, making sure to cover all scratches in the movement.
    
    • For badly scratched discs, you may have to coat the entire disc in petroleum jelly.
11. Remove the excess jelly with the microfiber cloth. If there are any globs of jelly or toothpaste left, remove them using the microfiber cloth.
    
    • The disc's surface should be smooth before you put it in your console or computer.
12. Test your disc. Place the disc back in your console or computer and try to run the game. If it works, you've successfully repaired the disc.
    
    • If the disc still doesn't work, try repeating these steps a few more times, making sure to test the game each time.
    • Ultimately, a game which is scratched badly enough to cause your console or computer to fail to read it must be replaced eventually.

EditTips

• Other DIY solutions to a scratched disc include rubbing the scratches with a banana, using laundry detergent, and using peanut butter. While none of these methods have been proven to work reliably, they may be worth trying if you're prepared to replace the disc should they fail.
• Many stores (e.g., Best Buy) offer a disc-polishing service which can repair discs. This service usually costs a small fee, but is normally cheaper than replacing the game.

EditWarnings

• Avoid placing a wet disc in your console or computer.
• None of these steps will work if there is a deep scratch in the disk.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Be a Video Game Master
• Play Video Games
• Buy Cheap Video Games

EditSources and Citations

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