Console repair experts identify a recurring problem with the PlayStation 5. Liquid metal, used in the cooling system, degrades over time and may require maintenance on all units. Recent Relatos, dated December 9, 2025, show cases on Slim models less than 18 months old.
Sony launched the PS5 in 2020 with this technology to optimize the APU’s thermal performance. However, the material tends to dry out and oxidize, creating areas without adequate contact. Isso occurs regardless of the console position, vertical or horizontal.
Technicians note that the collective aging of units worsens the scenario. Dados of 2025 indicate a failure rate of 8% of the line, compared to 5% in 2023.
- Symptoms include fan noise and loss of gaming performance.
- Automatic shutdowns protect hardware but signal urgency.
- Cases affect everything from early models to recent Slim versions.
How liquid metal works on PS5
The liquid metal transfers heat from the APU to the heatsink efficiently. Essa choice allows for cooler temperatures in intense gaming sessions.
However, the compound suffers from heating and cooling cycles. Natural degradation forms dry residues, compromising efficiency.
Recent cases of leaks in models Slim
A technician examined a PS5 Slim CFI-2016 on December 9, 2025. The console, 18 months old, had visible oxidation on the APU.
The analysis ruled out vertical position as the main cause. The quality of the initial application and thermal wear accelerated the problem.
Similar reports have increased in recent months. Usuários of units with one year of operation are already seeking assistance.
Expert reviews on durability
Matthew Cassels, from Alderon Games, records more complaints since 2024. The pattern suggests increasing incidence on older consoles.
Technicians predict that all units will face the issue eventually. The expectation is for mass preventive repairs.
Sony monitors the cases, but without an official repair program so far.
The risk involves serious electrical and thermal failures. Manutenções corrective measures restore contact, but require qualified professionals.
Sony measurements in recent revisions
The company updated the design in the CFI-2100 model, released in 2024. Ranhuras deep in the heatsink contain the better material.
The PS5 Pro, from November 2024, adopts the same layout. Esses adjustments aim to distribute the liquid metal evenly.
2025 Slim versions, such as CFI-2116, incorporate the changes. Initial Testes show improved thermal stability.
Repair options for affected users
Homeowners check for symptoms like noisy fans. Assistências authorized companies cover one-year warranties.
Outside of the deadline, costs vary depending on the model. Técnicos recommend annual cleaning to mitigate risks.
- Check the exact model in the settings menu.
- Avoid homemade disassembly to avoid invalidating the support.
- Monitor temperatures via diagnostic software.
Aging failure trends
Data from repair centers indicate an 8% incidence in 2025. Unidades of 2020 represent the majority of serious cases.
The increase reflects prolonged use in demanding games. Relatos of 2023 underestimated the scope of the problem.
New models promise reduction, but long-term observation is essential.
Degradation occurs by migration of the compound beyond the contact area. Isso creates hot spots in the APU, increasing the risk of premature shutdown and gradual loss of performance in titles such as Path of Titans updates, which demand high processing. Técnicos emphasize that the phenomenon is independent of accumulated dust or excessive use, focusing on the chemical composition of the material exposed to repeated thermal variations over thousands of hours of operation. Relatos from independent centers, collected since early December 2025, confirm that even units stored horizontally exhibit the same oxidation patterns, reinforcing the need for regular inspections for owners looking to maximize hardware lifespan.
Impact on gaming and daily performance
Players notice frame drops in long sessions. Overheating forces automatic clock reductions on the APU.
Firmware updates help manage thermal loads. However, they do not solve the root cause of wear.
Studies from 2025 show that 70% of those affected recover post-repair stability.
Recommendations for risk prevention
Keep the console in ventilated environments. Evite surfaces that retain heat during use.
Update software regularly for thermal optimizations. Considere approved external cooling accessories.
Professionals warn about inspections every two years in old units.