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2000-1337

Nintendo Nintendo Switch

Severity: Moderate

What Does This Error Mean?

Nintendo Switch error 2000-1337 is a general system error that usually occurs during software operations. It can appear when launching a game, updating software, or loading from a microSD card. The most common causes are corrupted data, storage problems, or a microSD card that needs reformatting.

Affected Models

  • Nintendo Switch
  • Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Nintendo Switch OLED

Common Causes

  • Game or software data has become corrupted on the internal memory or microSD card
  • The microSD card is not properly formatted or has file system errors
  • The microSD card is not seated properly in the slot
  • The game cartridge has a dirty or damaged read contact
  • A background system process crashed during a software operation

How to Fix It

  1. Restart your Nintendo Switch. Hold the power button for three seconds, select Power Options > Restart. This clears temporary memory and resolves many one-off system errors.

    Many instances of this error are caused by a temporary glitch that a restart immediately fixes.

  2. Check for corrupted data. Go to System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software. Select the affected game and choose Check for Corrupt Data. Follow the prompts to repair or re-download corrupted files.

    This is a built-in tool that scans game data for damage. It can often repair errors without you needing to delete and reinstall the game.

  3. Remove and reinsert your microSD card. Power the Switch off completely first — hold the power button and select Power Options > Power Off. Then carefully remove the microSD card from the slot on the back and firmly reinsert it.

    A loosely seated microSD card causes intermittent read errors. Always power off before removing or inserting the card.

  4. Format the microSD card using the Switch (not a computer). Go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Format microSD Card. This will erase the card, but games can be re-downloaded from the eShop.

    Formatting the card removes file system errors that cause read failures. Your game purchases are always available to re-download — the format only removes the local copies.

  5. If the error occurs with a cartridge game, clean the cartridge's gold contacts. Remove the cartridge and gently wipe the gold contacts on the bottom with a dry, lint-free cloth. Reinsert firmly.

    Dirty or oxidized gold contacts cause read errors. Never use liquids on cartridge contacts — a dry cloth is sufficient.

When to Call a Professional

If error 2000-1337 appears consistently with a specific game and all fixes fail, contact Nintendo Support at support.nintendo.com. If you suspect the microSD card is failing, replacement cards are inexpensive and available at most electronics stores. For cartridge problems, Nintendo's repair service can inspect the card reader.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I format my microSD card, will I lose my saved games?

Your saved game data is stored in System Memory, not on the microSD card. Formatting the microSD card only removes downloaded game software stored on it. Your saves are safe. You will need to re-download the games themselves, but your progress will still be there.

How do I know if my microSD card is to blame?

The easiest test is to remove the microSD card and see if the error still appears. If the error only happens with software stored on the card, the card is likely the problem. Try formatting it using the Switch's built-in tool. If it fails again quickly, the card may be physically failing and should be replaced.

What size microSD card should I buy for my Switch?

A 128 GB microSD card is a good starting point for most players. Power users with many digital games should consider 256 GB or 512 GB. The Nintendo Switch uses microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC cards. Brand-name cards from SanDisk or Samsung are recommended for reliability. Class 10 or UHS-I speed rating is the minimum recommended for the Switch.