How do I wipe my 3DS?
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To wipe your 3DS, you will need to perform a factory reset, which will erase all data from the system, including games, saves, photos, and videos, by going to the System Settings icon on the HOME Menu, tapping Other Settings, and then selecting Format System Memory. This process will restore your 3DS to its original factory settings, removing all personally-identifiable information and preparing it for sale or transfer to a new owner.
Before You Start
Before you begin the wiping process, make sure to back up any important data you want to keep, such as saved games or photos, to an SD card or computer. It’s also a good idea to remove any SD cards from the system before performing the factory reset.
Wiping Your 3DS
To wipe your 3DS, follow these steps:
- Tap the System Settings icon on the HOME Menu.
- Tap Other Settings.
- Tap the right arrow three times until you reach page four.
- Tap Format System Memory.
- Tap Format to confirm.
- Tap Format again to erase the data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when I format my 3DS?
Formatting your 3DS will erase all data from the system, including games, saves, photos, and videos. Any downloaded software will need to be redownloaded after the format.
Does formatting my 3DS remove my Nintendo ID?
Formatting the system will remove the Nintendo Network ID, so that a different one can be linked or created.
How do I hard reset my 3DS?
To hard reset your 3DS, press and hold the Power button until it turns off. This may take up to 10 seconds.
Can I sell my 3DS after wiping it?
Yes, you can sell your 3DS after wiping it, but make sure to reset it to its factory settings and remove any personally-identifiable information.
What happens if I delete my Nintendo Network ID on my 3DS?
If you delete your Nintendo Network ID on your 3DS, you will lose access to any digital content you purchased or acquired using that ID.
Can I restore my 3DS to its factory settings?
Yes, you can restore your 3DS to its factory settings by performing a factory reset.
How do I delete unused content on my 3DS?
To delete unused content on your 3DS, go to the System Settings icon, tap Data Management, and then select the Software you want to delete.
Is my 3DS obsolete?
The 3DS family hardware was officially discontinued on September 16, 2020, and the Nintendo eShop officially shut down on March 27, 2023.
What happens if I use a hacked 3DS online?
Using a hacked 3DS to play cartridge games online can get your Nintendo account banned.
Can I have multiple Nintendo Network IDs on my 3DS?
No, the Nintendo 3DS can have only one active Nintendo Network ID registered to it at one time.
How do I soft reset my 3DS?
To soft reset your 3DS, hold down the L & R shoulder buttons and press the Start button.
Can I fix a bricked 3DS?
If you have a bricked 3DS due to hardware failure, it is unlikely that you will be able to fix it yourself.
Is a factory reset enough before selling my 3DS?
A factory reset is a good start, but it’s also important to remove any personally-identifiable information and reset the system to its factory settings.
Can I sell a broken 3DS?
Yes, you can sell a broken 3DS, but it will be worth less money than a fully functioning one.
What happens to the old 3DS after a system transfer?
After a system transfer, all data on the original system is deleted, and any data on the SD Card can only be used on the new system.
Can I unlink a Nintendo Account from a 3DS?
Yes, you can unlink a Nintendo Account from a 3DS, but you will need to link an additional service or create a Nintendo Account password first.
Can I redownload 3DS games after deleting them?
Yes, you can redownload 3DS games after deleting them, as long as you have a valid Nintendo Account and access to the Nintendo eShop.