The PlayStation 5 has used liquid metal as a thermal interface between the processor and the heatsink since its launch in 2020.
This technology offers superior conductivity to traditional thermal paste, allowing for lower temperatures during intense use.
However, recent reports from specialized technicians point to degradation of the material over time, with cases of drying, oxidation and displacement.
One example involves a PS5 Slim with less than 18 months of use, which showed dry and oxidized residue on the processor.
Main causes of degradation
The failure does not depend exclusively on the position of the console, vertical or horizontal.
Factors such as quality of application in the factory and repeated temperature cycles speed up the process.
Frequent movement or inadequate transportation can aggravate material displacement.
In extreme cases, the liquid metal forms dry spots, reducing thermal contact and raising internal temperatures.
PS5 MYTH BUSTED! 🤯
— modyfikatorcasper (@Modyfikator89)December 9, 2025
A PS5 SLIM (CFI-2016) console, which is less than 1.5 years old and has been standing VERTICALLY since purchase, is in for service and has the same problem!
Visible on the APU core are dried out and oxidized Liquid Metal (LM) remnants! The LM has formed a…pic.twitter.com/COD7L57lMl
Impacts on models Slim and Pro
The PS5 Slim maintains the same cooling principle, with similar risks despite adjustments to the internal layout.
Initial models of the Slim, such as the CFI-2016, record occurrences even in young units.
In the PS5 Pro and recent revisions of the Slim, the Sony introduced grooves in the heatsink to better contain material.
These changes aim for greater long-term thermal stability, reducing leaks.
Common Thermal Failure Symptoms
- Abrupt shutdowns in demanding games.
- Excessive fan noise even at light loads.
- Overheating warning on screen.
- Abnormal heating of the cabinet to the touch.
These signs indicate a possible need for a professional check of the cooling system.
Measures adopted by Sony in recent reviews
The company has applied the PS5 Pro design to updated Slim models such as the CFI-2100, CFI-2200, and CFI-2116.
The engraved grooves around the processor collect any excess and maintain uniform distribution.
These changes improve thermal consistency over the years.
Older units do not have these protections, increasing vulnerability as they age.
Recommended care for owners
Keep the console in a ventilated place, avoiding surfaces that block airflow.
Avoid moving the device immediately after long sessions, when it is still hot.
Perform dust cleaning periodically with qualified assistance.
Monitor performance and abnormal noises for early intervention.
Perspectives for long-time users
Technicians observe an increase in cases in consoles that are more than three years old.
Natural degradation of liquid metal may require reapplication or specialized maintenance.
Revised models offer greater resilience, but monitoring remains essential.
Owners of older units should consider preventive assessments at authorized centers.
