3 Fixes for PS4 Unrecognized Disc Error

If you have a PlayStation 4 and it keeps giving an “Unrecognized Disc” error, this is a common problem with several causes and fixes.

This is a known error with the PS4 that many users report having at some point in the system’s life.

PS4 Unrecognized Disc Mechanical vs. Software Fixes

When a disc is unrecognized, two main things can cause the problem, mechanical and software.

You have likely already tried to clean the disc but be sure to test the PS4 with a know good disc to see if it works.

If a known good disc works, it is likely a software problem with the main fixes below.

If there is a lot of noise inside the case when it is trying to read the disc, it can also be the rollers which can cause problems.

When there is a mechanical problem, many users have had good success placing the unit on its side.

The main thing is to verify if it is a software problem or mechanical problem as these are two very different fixes.

3 Fixes for PS4 Unrecognized Disc Error

Boot Safe Mode and Install System Software Update

Doing a system update or reinstalling the system software is the main fix for a software problem.

Often there is an update to install which will clear out the error and get the unit working again.

To do a system update requires booting into safe mode.

How To Boot the PS4 into Safe Mode and Update

Power Down the PS4 and Hold the Power Button for 10-12 seconds until 2 beeps are heard.

Connect the PS4 Controller Wired Directly to the system

Once in Safe Mode Press the Play Station Button

Select option #3 Update System Software

Select Update Using Internet

Select and Install the latest version

The file will download and install

After the update restart and retest the disk

Boot Safe Mode and Rebuild PS4 Database

Rebuilding the PS4 database has been known to fix disc issues.

PlayStation states that it will take a few hours to rebuild but in my experience, it usually finishes in 10-15 minutes.

Of course, this may vary from user to user, so be sure to give it time.

How To Rebuild a PS4 Database

Power Down the PS4 and Hold the Power Button for 10-12 seconds until 2 beeps are heard.

Connect the PS4 Controller Wired Directly to the system

Once in Safe Mode Press the Play Station Button

Select option #5 Rebuild Database

Click OK

The PS4 will restart and show a line with an estimation until it is finished

Full Initialize PS4 Software

Initializing the PS4 software is another known fix for an unrecognized disc.

Before doing this be sure to back up any game saves as they will be deleted.

Go to Application Saved Data Management–> Saved Data in System Storage–> Upload Online Storage.

Any installed games will also be deleted if this is done.

How To Full Initialize PS4 Software

From the main menu go to Settings

Scroll down and select Initialization

Click Initialize PS4

Click Full

Summary
If you are getting an unrecognized disc error on a PlayStation 4, it can no doubt be very frustrating.

The first thing to do is to see if it is mechanical or the software causing the issue.

If you find it is the software, boot into safe mode and do an update of the system.

Next, boot into safe mode and rebuild the database, as this has been known to solve the issue.

And last, do a full initialization of the PS4 software, which is also known to fix disc errors.

Have you had issues with the PlayStation 4, an unrecognized disc problem? Let us know any issues you have had below.