Nintendo DS Lite - Screen Appears Cracked
If runny colors or blotchy colors permanently remain on the screen, even when the Nintendo DS Lite is OFF, then the liquid crystal display (LCD) is cracked. In this situation, your system will need to be repaired.
Nintendo DS Lite - Lines on the Screen
If you see lines on either screen of your Nintendo DS Lite during game play, then it is likely one or more of the components that create the image on the screen are damaged. This usually occurs if there has been an impact -- such as being dropped or hit -- to the Nintendo DS Lite's screens. Your Nintendo DS Lite system will need to be repaired.
Important Note: If you are seeing lines on the screen that slowly fade away after turning off the system, this is normal.
Nintendo DS Lite - Backlight Doesn't Turn On
The backlight can switch off for two reasons:
- The settings for the system are set to have the backlight off. Click here for information on changing the setting.
- The backlight also turns off if the alarm is set. You can tell when the alarm is set if you see numbers counting down on the screen. If this is the case, click here for information on turning off the alarm.
Nintendo DS Lite - Screen is Blank
Screen is blank and the power light flashes slowly
- The system is in sleep mode. This should only happen when the lid is fully closed. When the lid is opened, the unit should turn back on.
If the step above does not solve the problem, your system will need to be repaired
Nintendo DS Lite - Lower Screen Looks Different Than the Upper Screen
Lower screen looks different than the upper screen
Due to the touch screen feature of the lower screen, an additional layer of touch-sensitive material is added. The top screen is not touch-sensitive, and can appear slightly brighter than the lower screen because it does not have this additional layer. Here are two things you can do to try and help increase the amount of light you see from the lower screen:
- Try holding the Nintendo DS Lite so that the lower screen is not at an angle, and you are able to look directly at it.
- If you are playing Game Boy Advance games on the Nintendo DS Lite, and are having difficulty seeing the game clearly on the bottom screen, you may want to change the system setting to play the Game Boy Advance game on the upper screen. Click here for more information.
- If you are using a screen protector, make sure that it is licensed by Nintendo. Unlicensed screen protectors may affect the visibility of the screen you are using it on. For more information on screen protectors, please click here.
You may want to compare the systems screen with another unit. It is normal for there to be some slight differences. However, if you feel there's definitely something wrong your system, then your system will need to be repaired.
Nintendo DS Lite - No Power
If your systems charge light does come on when the AC Adapter is plugged into the wall, but the charge does not last as long as it used to when the AC Adapter is unplugged, click here.
If you are unable to get the charge or power lights on the Nintendo DS Lite (diagram) to come on, even when the system is plugged in, please use the troubleshooting on this page.
Ensure that you are properly recharging the battery. Please click here to review the instructions for charging your Nintendo DS Lite.
- Try plugging the AC Adapter into another wall outlet. Its possible the outlet is not working properly and has not been charging the Nintendo DS Lite.
Nintendo DS Lite - Sticky Buttons
What you will need:
- 1 clean, dry toothbrush (no toothpaste on it)
How to clean the buttons:
- Turn off the Nintendo DS Lite system. Remove the AC adapter, and any Game Paks.
- Turn the system screen-side down.
- Using a clean, dry toothbrush, gently and thoroughly scrub the area around the buttons, working the bristles around the sides of the buttons.
- Test the system for proper response.
- Repeat the process if necessary. If cleaning doesn't solve a sticky button problem, the unit will need to be repaired. We do not advise opening the system or using liquid cleaners at any time.
Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection Technical Support - Nintendo DS and Nintendo DS Lite
What sort of information do you need?
- Getting Started
If you need assistance with a first-time connection to the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, our Getting Started tool will show you what you need, and walk you through the process step-by-step. - Find a Hotspot Location
Find a free Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection hotspot near you. - Connection Support
If you have tried to set up a connection, but have been unable to do so, or are experiencing problems with an existing connection, this problem solving information will have you covered. - Router Information
Need assistance purchasing a wireless router, or need help accessing your wireless router's settings? We have detailed information on dozens of name-brand routers. - Game Support
Information for specific Nintendo DS Wi-Fi compatible games, such as how to locate or register a Friend Code, different game modes, and more. - Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection (including wireless security, profile management, routers, and more)? Check out our FAQ section. - Error Codes
Getting a five-digit error code when connecting online or trying to play with others? Lookup your error code for specific troubleshooting. - Nintendo WFC Glossary
Don't know what 802.11g/b is, or what WEP keys are? No need to worry, our glossary has definitions for many of the terms related to the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and wireless networking.


