ColecoVision Troubleshooting

This troubleshooting page will help you diagnose problems with the ColecoVision

When I am playing games, my controller refuses to respond to several commands

If after plugging the controller into different ports, you find that it isn't working, simply ordering or buying a replacement controller should solve the issue.

Dust can enter the controller port and cause the ColecoVision to have trouble registering the controller.

Tools: Can of compressed air, can of compressed air straw.

Step 1: Unplug the controllers from the controller ports.

Step 2: Insert the can of compressed air straw into the can of compressed air.

Step 3: Using the can of compressed air, insert the straw into the controller ports and spray compressed air around the pins in the controller port.

Step 4: Remove the straw from the controller port and plug the controller back into the controller port.

Dirt and crumbs can build up around the keypad buttons and the joystick. Cleaning the controller should restore functionality.

Step 1: Dip a cotton swab into 91% Isopropyl Alcohol.

Step 2: Run the now wet cotton swab over the keypad buttons and joystick.

Step 3: Allow ample time for drying.

Step 4: You controller should now be operating smoothly.

My game console will not read my game cartridges when I insert them into the console

If only one game cartridge doesn't read on multiple ColecoVision consoles, the game cartridge may be worn out. Simply buy a replacement cartridge for that game.

NOTE:You will lose your game file progress.

The game cartridge reader may have dust or dirt preventing the reader from recognizing the game cartridge.

Step 1: Dip a cotton swab into 91% Isopropyl Alcohol.

Step 2: Run the now wet cotton swab along the cartridge reader.

Step 3: Allow adequate drying time.

Step 4: Replace cartridge and turn console on.

If multiple game cartridges are not being read but work in another ColecoVision console, the cartridge reader may be faulty and need replacing. Replace the cartridge reader using the Cartridge Reader Repair Guide.

Cursor on screen automatically moves without my consent

The operation of the console may have become corrupted due to damage to the motherboard. See the Motherboard Replacement Repair Guide.

There are sometimes lines or blurry pictures on screen when I am playing

Sometimes, simply resetting the console will clear the problem. Do this by turning the power Switch "OFF", then "ON".

The television you are playing on may not be able to support the ColecoVision. While the console plugs into the Televsion using a coaxial cable, many converters exist to allow for coaxial to AVI or HDMI conversion.

Check to see if your coaxial cable is plugged into both the console and the converter box correctly and securely. Check to see if your HDMI or AVI cables are plugged in correctly. Check all cables for damage. If all is plugged in correctly, the problem may lie in either of the cables or the converter box. First, try replacing the cables. If the problem persists, try replacing the converter.

If using only the coaxial cable, check to see what channel the channel switch (located on the back of the console) is set to the channel you are trying. If switching between channels does not work, simply replace the coaxial cable.

Console will not power on, no matter how many times I reset and unplug it

If your ColecoVision is not turning on, it could be due to a defective outlet in your wall. Try plugging your console into a different outlet. If it is plugged into a powerstrip, either move the powerstrip's plug or remove the ColecoVision from the powerstrip and plug it directly into the wall.

If changing the outlet does not work, the power cord may be at fault. Replacing the cord should solve this issue.