Ultimate Guide to Arcade Machine Repair: Troubleshooting & Fixes

Introduction

Arcade machines are built to last, but like any piece of technology, they can develop issues over time. Whether your machine won’t turn on, the screen is acting up, or the controls aren’t responding, this guide will help you identify the problem and find a possible solution.

This guide serves as a starting point for diagnosing the most common arcade issues. Each section outlines potential causes and solutions, making it easy to troubleshoot and get your machine back up and running.

1. Power Issues: Arcade Machine Won’t Turn On

If your arcade machine won’t turn on at all, the issue is likely related to the power supply unit (PSU), wiring, or fuses.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

  • No response at all → Ensure the machine is plugged in and that the power switch is turned on.
  • Marquee lights up, but nothing else works → The power supply may be failing; test it with a multimeter.
  • Random shut-offs or flickering → A loose power connection or a failing fuse may be the cause.
  • Burning smell or clicking sounds → Could indicate a failing power supply—replace immediately.

2. Monitor Problems: No Display, Flickering, or Color Issues

A failing CRT or LCD monitor can cause a blank screen, flickering, or color distortions.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

  • No image at all → Ensure the monitor is getting power and that the video signal is properly connected.
  • Screen flickering or rolling → Adjust the horizontal/vertical hold settings on the monitor.
  • Discolored or faded graphics → A monitor cap kit replacement may be needed.
  • Image has ghosting or burn-in → A CRT tube swap or LCD replacement may be required.

3. Joystick & Button Problems: Input Not Responding

If your arcade controls aren’t responding, it’s usually due to worn-out micro-switches, faulty wiring, or dirt buildup.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

  • Buttons don’t work → Check the wiring and test the micro-switches inside the buttons.
  • Joystick is stuck or unresponsive → The microswitches may be broken, or the joystick may need lubrication.
  • Buttons work intermittently → A loose connection in the control panel wiring might be the issue.
  • Buttons double-register or stick → Clean or replace worn-out micro-switches.

4. Sound Issues: No Audio or Distorted Sound

If the game runs but there’s no sound or poor-quality audio, the problem is likely with the speakers, amplifier, or wiring.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

  • No sound at all → Ensure the volume knob isn’t turned down or muted in the settings.
  • Crackling or distorted audio → A failing amplifier or loose speaker connection could be the culprit.
  • Only some sounds play, but not others → The game’s sound board may need repair.
  • High-pitched humming or buzzing → Grounding issues may be interfering with the speakers.

5. Coin Mechanism Not Working

If your machine doesn’t register coins properly, the coin mech may be jammed, dirty, or misaligned.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

  • Coins get stuck → Open the coin door and remove any obstructions.
  • Machine doesn’t register credits → The coin switch may be misaligned or broken.
  • Coin slots work intermittently → Clean the internal components to ensure smooth operation.
  • Converting to free play mode → Some arcade machines allow free play settings via DIP switches.

6. Game Board (PCB) Malfunctions

If the arcade machine boots up but the game doesn’t play correctly, the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) may be failing.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

  • The game doesn’t start → Check if the PCB is properly connected to the JAMMA harness.
  • Graphics are distorted or missing → There may be corrosion on the PCB contacts.
  • Game crashes or resets randomly → The board may need a recap or reflowing solder points.
  • Sprites glitch or disappear → Could indicate bad ROM chips or loose connections.

7. Essential Arcade Machine Maintenance

Regular maintenance can prevent many of these common issues before they become bigger problems.

Preventative Maintenance Tips:

  • Clean dust & debris from inside the cabinet regularly.
  • Check wiring & connections to prevent loose parts from causing failures.
  • Lubricate joysticks & buttons to ensure they stay responsive.
  • Inspect power supply & fuses every few months.
  • Test coin mechs and PCB connections periodically to avoid sudden failures.

Conclusion: Start Troubleshooting Your Arcade Machine

Most arcade machine issues have straightforward fixes, but diagnosing the problem is the first step. Use this guide to determine what’s wrong and apply the appropriate solution.

If you still need help, reach out to arcade repair communities or a professional for advanced repairs.

Related Pages

Resources

Top 100 Arcade Games of All Time