How to Fix Nintendo eShop Errors: A Comprehensive Guide
Experiencing errors on the Nintendo eShop can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re eager to download a new game or explore the latest deals. The good news is that many eShop errors are easily fixable with a bit of troubleshooting. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you diagnose and resolve common issues, getting you back to gaming in no time.
The most direct approach to fixing a Nintendo eShop error involves a multi-pronged approach. First, restart your console and retry the eShop. Next, check your internet connection and ensure it’s stable. Verify that your Nintendo account’s region setting is correct. If the problem persists, consider resetting the eShop cache or contacting Nintendo Support for more specific assistance. Let’s dive into the details!
Common Troubleshooting Steps
1. Restart Your Nintendo Switch
The age-old adage of “turn it off and on again” holds true for many technical issues, including Nintendo eShop errors. A simple restart can often clear temporary glitches and refresh the system’s connection to the network.
- How to restart: Hold down the Power Button on your Nintendo Switch until the Power Options menu appears. Select “Restart” and wait for the console to reboot.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is crucial for accessing the Nintendo eShop. If your connection is weak or intermittent, it can lead to various error codes.
- Verify your connection: Go to System Settings > Internet > Test Connection. If the test fails, try the following:
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router.
- Restart your router and modem.
- Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network.
- Consider using a wired connection via a LAN adapter.
- Make sure that other devices can access the Internet while on the same network.
3. Ensure the Latest System Update is Installed
Nintendo regularly releases system updates that improve performance, fix bugs, and enhance security. Running an outdated system can sometimes cause compatibility issues with the eShop.
- How to update: Go to System Settings > System > System Update. The console will automatically check for and download any available updates.
4. Correct Region Settings on your Nintendo Account
A common cause of eShop issues, particularly error code 2813-0998, is an incorrect region setting in your Nintendo Account.
- How to check and update:
- Go to accounts.nintendo.com and log in to your Nintendo Account.
- Select “Profile” and scroll down to “Country/Region of Residence.”
- Ensure that the country setting is correct for your location, a country where the Nintendo eShop is available.
- Power off your console and then power it back on after updating the country settings.
5. Reset the eShop Cache
The Nintendo eShop stores temporary data in its cache to improve performance. However, this cached data can sometimes become corrupted, leading to errors. Resetting the cache can resolve these issues.
- How to reset:
- Select System Settings from the HOME Menu.
- Scroll down and select System.
- Scroll down again, and select Formatting Options.
- Select Reset Cache.
- Select the user you would like to reset the cache for, and then select Reset to confirm.
6. Payment Method Issues
Problems with your payment method can prevent you from making purchases on the eShop.
- Troubleshooting payment issues:
- Verify sufficient funds: Ensure that there are enough funds available on the card.
- Double-check card details: Ensure you are entering the card information correctly, including the name, billing address, and security code.
- Try a different payment method: If possible, try using a different credit card or a prepaid Nintendo eShop card.
- Delete and re-add card information: Delete the saved credit card information and then try again without saving the information.
- Consider using PayPal: Adding Funds to your account through PayPal may also fix some issues.
7. Service Outages
Sometimes, the Nintendo eShop itself may be experiencing outages or maintenance.
- Check Nintendo’s Network Status page: Visit support.nintendo.com to check for any posted service maintenance or outages.
- Wait and try again: If there’s an outage, wait until it’s resolved and then try accessing the eShop again.
8. Contact Nintendo Support
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and you’re still experiencing problems, it’s time to contact Nintendo Support for assistance. They may be able to provide more specific guidance based on your particular error code.
- Nintendo’s Consumer Assistance Hotline: 1-800-255-3700
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does error code 2813-0998 mean?
Error code 2813-0998 generally indicates that the country/region set in your Nintendo Account does not currently have an available Nintendo eShop.
2. How do I find the 16-character download code for the eShop?
The download code is a 16-digit code that is printed on the receipt you received from the retailer. If you purchased online, check your email. The retailer may have sent you an email with a copy of your download code.
3. Can I get a refund for a game I accidentally purchased on the eShop?
Nintendo generally does not offer refunds or exchanges for mistaken purchases. It’s important to read game descriptions and check screenshots before buying.
4. Why is my credit card being declined on the eShop?
There could be several reasons: insufficient funds, incorrect card details, a temporary issue with the card issuer, or the eShop itself. Double-check your information and try again, or contact your bank.
5. How do I reset my Nintendo eShop?
You can reset the eShop cache through System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Reset Cache.
6. My Nintendo Switch is banned. What does error code 2124-4007 or 2124-4508 mean?
If you are permanently banned, you’ll see the error code 2124-4007 or 2124-4508 along with the message: “The use of online services on this console is currently restricted by Nintendo.” Contact Nintendo’s Consumer Assistance Hotline to appeal against this decision.
7. What does error code 52000 mean?
This error code typically indicates that the system was unable to obtain an IP Address from the wireless network.
8. What does error code 2813-9258 mean?
Visit Nintendo’s Network Status page and check for any posted service maintenance or outages. Once the Nintendo eShop maintenance has ended, try to connect to the Nintendo eShop again.
9. Can I return unused Nintendo eShop cards?
This card is non-reloadable. Code balance cannot be redeemed for cash and is non-refundable unless required by law.
10. What does error code 2821-5000 on Nintendo Switch mean?
In other countries, this error may be displayed when the Nintendo Account is set to a country where the services associated to the Nintendo Switch Online icon on the HOME Menu may not yet be available.
11. What does error code 2813-0009 on eShop mean?
This error code likely indicates a temporary service issue with the Nintendo eShop.
12. What does error code 2813-9900 on Nintendo support mean?
This error code likely indicates a temporary service issue with the Nintendo eShop.
13. What does error code 2813-0000 on switch mean?
This error can occur when you have an active free trial Nintendo Switch Online membership and attempt to purchase a family membership. Make sure you have cancelled automatic renewal for your free trial, then try making the purchase again after the free trial ends.
14. What does error code 2813-9294 on Nintendo eShop mean?
This error typically indicates that the download code was entered incorrectly.
15. What does error code 2813-0118 mean?
This error code may indicate an issue with the credit card being used.
Fixing Nintendo eShop errors can be a process of elimination, but by following these steps and understanding the common causes, you can often resolve the issue and get back to enjoying your favorite games. Remember that Nintendo Support is always available if you need further assistance, and that learning more about games and game design can be a rewarding experience, so be sure to check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.