Nintendo Switch Error Code 2002-4690 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 2002-4690 means your Nintendo Switch found corrupted data in a game or application. The software cannot launch because some of its files are damaged. This is fixable — you can usually repair it without losing your save data.

Affected Models

Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch Lite
Nintendo Switch OLED

Common Causes

The game download was interrupted and left corrupted files on the console
The microSD card has a bad sector where game data is stored
A power outage or sudden shutdown occurred while the game was being written to storage
The microSD card is failing or has compatibility issues with the Switch
A system update changed how game files are read, exposing a hidden corruption

How to Fix It

Use the Switch's built-in data repair tool. On the Home screen, select the game's icon but do not launch it. Press the + or - button to open Options, then select 'Manage Software' > 'Check for Corrupt Data.'

The Switch will scan and attempt to repair the corrupted files automatically.
If the repair tool finds corruption it cannot fix, delete the game and redownload it. Your save data is stored separately and will not be deleted.

Go to System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software to delete the game without touching saves.
If the game is on a microSD card, try moving it to the Switch's internal storage. Remove the microSD card, then redownload the game to internal storage.

This tests whether the microSD card is causing the corruption.
Check your microSD card for errors. Remove it from the Switch and insert it into a PC using an adapter. Right-click the drive in File Explorer and select Properties > Tools > Check.

Windows can detect and fix file system errors on the microSD card.
Make sure your Switch system software is up to date. Go to System Settings > System > System Update. Some corruption errors are resolved by system updates.

An outdated system can sometimes misread game files and report false corruption.

When to Call a Professional

Error 2002-4690 rarely needs professional help. If corruption keeps happening across multiple games, your microSD card may be failing. Replace the microSD card with a new one — Nintendo recommends cards from reputable brands like SanDisk or Samsung.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my save data if I delete and reinstall the game?

No — in most cases. Save data is stored separately from the game software on Nintendo Switch. Deleting the game removes the software but not your saves. However, if the save data itself is what is corrupted, you may need to start fresh.

How do I know if my microSD card is the problem?

Try moving the game to the Switch's internal storage and see if it still errors. If it works fine on internal storage, the microSD card is likely causing the corruption. Consider replacing the card — they are inexpensive and important for reliable game storage.

Can corrupt game data spread to other games?

No. Corruption is contained to the specific game's files. Other games stored on the same card are not affected. However, a failing microSD card can eventually corrupt other data stored on it too.