At times, this issue is limited to game discs or a particular game disc. Often, an update to the Xbox firmware is identified as the trigger for the problem. There have also been reports of new consoles experiencing this issue straight out of the box. On some occasions, the drive might operate silently, while in other cases, it may emit a grinding or spinning noise. Before troubleshooting, ensure that the discs are compatible with the Xbox Series X and Inspect your Xbox Series X for any signs of physical damage. Sometimes, drops or impacts can cause internal components to shift or become damaged, which can affect the disc drive’s ability to function properly. If you find physical damage and your console is still under warranty, contact Microsoft Support to discuss repair options.
1. Use Different Insertion Techniques for the Disc
The Xbox Series X will fail to read a disc if it isn’t properly engaged within the drive for the laser to read it. Trying different disc insertion techniques can resolve the issue.
Reinsert the Disc
Reinsert the Disc while Holding onto the Tray
Reinsert the Disc after Putting the Console Sideways
2. Try Different Restart Methods
The Xbox Series X may fail to read discs if an essential OS module hasn’t loaded correctly or is caught in an error loop. To address this, try different console restart methods.
Restart Through the Guide
Perform a Hard Reboot
Perform a Cold Restart
3. Check Free Storage on the Xbox
If your console is low on storage, some essential functions, including disc reading, may be hindered. Freeing up storage space on the Xbox should remedy the issue.
4. Update the Xbox to the Latest Build
Outdated firmware can result in compatibility issues with certain discs on the Xbox, particularly those using the most recent standards. Moreover, bugs could also be responsible for the problem at hand. Updating the Xbox to the newest firmware should fix the issue.
5. Remove External Peripherals from the Xbox
External peripherals, such as storage drives, can sometimes draw excessive current from the console, which can prevent the Xbox from supplying the necessary current to the disc drive. Removing these peripherals may address the disc-reading problem.
6. Clear Persistent Storage of the Xbox
The Xbox Series X maintains its cache within the Persistent Storage, which can become corrupt. Invalid cache entries relating to the disc drive may result in the console failing to read discs. Clearing the persistent storage can solve the problem.
7. Use the Blu-Ray App from the Xbox Store
The absence of necessary codecs to play disc content can lead the Xbox to malfunction, appearing as if it’s not reading discs. Installing the Blu-Ray App from the Xbox Store can correct this.
8. Enable Instant-on or Energy Saving on the Xbox
The disc drive requires a specific current level for correct operation. If the power mode in use doesn’t provide adequate current, the drive may fail to read discs. Adjusting the power settings may help.
9. Clean the Disc and Disc Drive
Dirty discs or lenses can prevent proper reading by the Xbox. Cleaning these components may fix the problem.
Clean the Disc
Clean the Disc Drive
10. Reinstall the Smallest Game Addon
Failure to properly recognize a game’s add-ons can lead to non-recognition of a game disc. If the game is installed, reinstalling the smallest game addon can be a solution.
11. Reset the Xbox Series X to Factory Defaults
The Xbox Series X may cease to read discs if firmware components that control the disc drive become corrupted. Resetting the console to factory settings can address this.
Reset While Keeping Apps and Games
Factory Reset the Xbox
This action will delete all data on the Xbox, so be sure to back up any critical information. If the problem persists after trying these steps, consider whether the discs might be defective or if the drive itself is malfunctioning. You can verify this by trying different discs in the drive or testing the problematic discs in another Xbox. Should you determine that the discs are faulty, start an RMA process with the disc vendor. On the other hand, if the drive is faulty and the console is still under warranty, reach out to Microsoft Support for assistance.
