Ultimate Guide to Locating Your Lost or Stolen Nintendo Switch

Have you misplaced your Nintendo Switch or can’t seem to find it within your home? If that sounds familiar, you’ve come to the right resource for assistance. There are several methods you can employ to track down your lost Nintendo Switch, especially if someone is playing a prank by hiding it in your house. Additionally, it’s always wise to have a plan in place just in case.

Unlike many modern gadgets, you can’t use another device linked to the same account to directly locate your Nintendo Switch. However, there are a few strategies you can try. Let’s explore the steps that will help you in recovering your missing device.

Steps to Recover Your Lost Nintendo Switch

Recovering your Nintendo Switch can involve several approaches, some of which may yield better results than others. One of the most straightforward methods is to contact Nintendo’s customer support in your area. Let’s break down the necessary procedures.

Reach Out to Nintendo Support

You can request assistance from Nintendo Customer Support to help you locate your lost or stolen Switch. To do this successfully, you will need the serial number of your device. Here are several ways to find that number.

Look at the Packaging

The serial number serves as a unique identifier for your Nintendo Switch. Similar to other electronics, you can usually find it on a label or sticker included in the packaging. This highlights the importance of keeping the box of your devices, as it can be a valuable resource in situations like this.

Review Your Purchase Receipts

Whether you bought the Nintendo Switch from a retail store or online, your receipt should include details like the model, purchase date, and serial number.

Inspect the Console (If You Have It)

If you currently possess your console, check the bottom of the unit. There should be a sticker displaying the serial number. It’s advisable to take a photograph of this number for safekeeping on your devices or in your preferred cloud storage.

Access the Serial Number Through Settings

The previous methods require having access to your Switch. If the sticker has worn off or is missing for any reason, you can find the serial number by navigating through the Switch’s Settings menu. Follow these steps:

1. Select the System Settings icon on your Switch’s main screen.
2. Scroll to the left and select the system option.
3. On the right-hand side, click on Serial Number.
4. This will display the serial number for your console, in addition to the battery and Joy-Con details.

Once you have the serial number, you can conveniently contact Nintendo’s customer support via your smartphone or computer and inquire about tracking your Switch.

Locating Your Nintendo Switch at Home

If your Nintendo Switch is lost somewhere in your home, there is no official method to find it. However, if you still have your Joy-Con controllers that were previously synced, you can use a practical approach under certain conditions.

With the Joy-Cons in hand, attempt to simulate the action of adjusting the Switch’s volume. Start by pairing your Joy-Cons. Move around your home and press the Home button on the Joy-Con until it pairs with the console. Continue this process while searching until both devices are connected.

Once connected, you’ll know the Nintendo Switch is within range. Now, hold down the Home button to display the quick access menu. Press the left joystick down three times and slide the right joystick back and forth. This will affect the volume, and if you pay close attention, you should hear the sound indicating the Switch’s location.

This is a useful technique for locating your lost Nintendo Switch within your home.

Attach a Tracker to Your Nintendo Switch (For Future Safety)

Since the Switch does not come with built-in tracking capabilities, it’s wise to consider using a popular tracking device, such as an Apple AirTag, Samsung SmartTag 2, or Tile Pro. Choose a tracker that is compatible with your smartphone and has good tracking performance.

Many tracking devices feature robust batteries and can update your device’s location via Bluetooth, aiding you in locating your Switch. This method can be particularly effective if someone has hidden your Switch at home as a joke. While this could also help if your Switch is stolen, be aware that the thief may discard the tracker.

Steps to Take If Your Switch is Stolen

If you’re facing difficulties tracking your lost or stolen Nintendo Switch, it’s wise to disconnect your account from that device. Additionally, remove any saved credit card information to prevent unauthorized purchases.

De-register Your Nintendo Switch

If your Nintendo Switch has been lost, it’s crucial to de-link your account from the device. Fortunately, this can be done easily from a web browser. Follow these steps:

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the Nintendo Account sign-in page.
2. Sign in using the Nintendo Account associated with your Switch.
3. From the sidebar, select the Shop Menu.
4. Scroll down and click on De-register Primary Console.
5. You will need to enter your account password to continue. Type it in and confirm.
6. Finally, click the prominent red De-register box.
7. This completes the de-registration of your lost or stolen Nintendo Switch.

Remove Credit Card Details from Your Account

If your Switch is stolen and has a linked credit card, the thief could make unauthorized purchases. To unlink your card from your Nintendo account, follow these steps:

1. Open a web browser and go to the Nintendo Accounts website.
2. Log in to your account and select Shop Menu from the sidebar.
3. Next to the credit card section, click Delete.
4. Confirm your intention to delete this information by selecting Delete again.
5. This will safely remove your credit card from your Nintendo account in the event of a lost or stolen Switch.

Finding Your Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons/Controllers

The detachable Joy-Cons on the Nintendo Switch and OLED models can easily go missing. Fortunately, tracking down these controllers is straightforward if you have access to your console. Here’s what to do:

1. Ensure that your Nintendo Switch is updated with the latest software version.
2. From the Menu, use the touchscreen to select the Controllers option.
3. You’ll see icons representing your controllers on the display.
4. Tap on the controller icon you wish to search for.
5. Listen for the vibrating signals from your controllers until you find them.
6. Keep in mind, the controllers might not vibrate if they are too far from the console, have low battery, or are not synced with it.

To prevent future loss of your Joy-Cons or controllers, be sure to store them in a carrying case when they are not in use.

Final Thoughts

This concludes the guide on how to locate your Nintendo Switch when it is misplaced or stolen. If the Nintendo Switch had GPS capabilities, utilizing a Find My Device feature would certainly enhance tracking ease.

Do you think GPS tracking might be included in the upcoming Switch 2, anticipated for 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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