Bad thermal paste is among the most common causes of Xbox overheating and the red ring of passing. This sometimes happens if the glue is applied during fabrication of the console. Bad paste can also lead to exposure to heat over lengthy time intervals. Since the glue slowly breaks down, you will start to encounter an overheating issue that gradually dissipates over time. If the glue fails fast, this will cause an almost instantaneous two reddish light error within seconds of turning to your Xbox.


Whether you should attempt to replace the thermal paste on your own depends on whether you want to make use of your guarantee. If you have never opened your console before, then using your guarantee to have the problem fixed by Microsoft is the best alternative. Just do not forget that after you do start the console, your warranty will be voided.
It always helps if you understand why you're doing something, so little bit of theory will be discussed. Thermal paste acts as a bridge allowing heat to maneuver across the contact area between the heat sink and the CPU or GPU. When the paste breaks down, it acts as a barrier to heat as opposed to a bridge. In More in Details , the heat sink won't be able to do its job of drawing heat out of the GPU.

1.) Implementing new paste on top of this older does not do anything because the old glue will block proper heat transfer. The old glue can be removed by applying rubbing alcohol with a clean cloth. The surface ought to be shiny once you are finished. Don't Forget to wash both the heat sink and the CPU or GPU. It's pointless to clean only one of the two mating surfaces. After cleaning, never touch the surfaces together with your fingers since this will leave oil in the form of a finger printing.

2.) Always use the glue in a thin layer. The thinner it's, the better it will operate. Just make sure the entire surface is coated. You will learn this when you can't observe any of the shiny metal. A fantastic rule of thumb would be to apply a dab of paste about the size of a BB.

3.) This also gives you more control than trying to do this with a stick.
4.) Arctic silver , a top quality thermal paste, is advised.

5.) Before you start the console, disconnect it from its power source. Keep all liquids away from the work area and don't do your work on a carpeting. Carpeting can cause static electricity which can damage the motherboard components.