The Xbox 360 console displays three red lights on the front of the machine when critical errors occur that prevent hardware function. These red light errors are often accompanied by an alpha-numeric error code, such as "E71." The overall cause of red light errors is the extremely high temperatures inside the console during game play. The high temperatures inside the Xbox 360, combined with an internal design that puts unnecessary weight on top of the motherboard, cause the machine's internal hardware components to flex and bend. You can correct the E71 red light error by removing the X-shaped clamps inside the console that cause the bending.
Instructions
1. Unplug all cables and controller accessories from the console, then remove the front faceplate by grasping it firmly and pulling backwards.
2. Pry open the plastic tabs on the outer case with your thumb and forefinger, then open the outer plastic case.
3. Unscrew the Torx screws on top of the metal interior case, then slide it open.
4. Lift the DVD drive out of the console. Unplug both the red and black SATA cables and the black and white power cables from the rear of the DVD drive.
5. The two X-clamps will be visible on top of the motherboard. Unscrew each and remove them from the console. Be sure not to scratch or damage the other hardware components inside the Xbox 360 when you remove the clamps from the motherboard.
6. Lower the DVD drive into the case and reconnect the SATA and power cables by pushing them firmly into place on the rear of the drive.
7. Close the metal cover and screw the Torx screws back in.
8. Return the outer plastic case to its original position. Apply pressure on the top of the case to snap the clasps back into place.
9. Put the front faceplate back on the console and reconnect all power cables and controllers before turning the console on again. Your Xbox 360's E71 red light error will be fixed now that the X-clamps are no longer bending the motherboard.
Tags: power cables, from console, front faceplate, hardware components, high temperatures, high temperatures inside, inside console