Nintendo Switch Error Code 2813-7194: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
2813-7194
Brand
Popular Games
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Error code 2813-7194 on the Nintendo Switch means the console has been locked by a parental controls PIN that has been entered incorrectly too many times or is simply forgotten. This is a medium-severity issue because it blocks access to restricted features or the entire console depending on your parental controls settings. The good news is Nintendo provides an official reset path using a master key or the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app, so you can regain access without losing your saved data.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 2813-7194

  1. Try the PIN You Know First

    Do not guess repeatedly and rapidly. Too many failed attempts will trigger a temporary lockout and may complicate the reset process.

  2. Use the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls App

  3. Request a Master Key from Nintendo

    The master key is valid only on the day it is issued and is tied to your specific inquiry number. You must use it the same day you request it.

  4. Enter the Master Key on the Console

  5. Reset or Adjust Parental Controls Settings

  6. Factory Reset as a Last Resort Only

    A factory reset permanently deletes all locally stored save data, downloaded software, and user accounts on the console. Back up any save data to Nintendo Switch Online cloud saves before proceeding if at all possible.
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When to Call a Professional

Contact Nintendo Support directly (1-800-255-3700 or support.nintendo.com) if you cannot access the Parental Controls app, do not have your Nintendo Account credentials, or if the console is not responding to the master key. Nintendo support agents can verify ownership and walk you through the master key process in real time. You do not need a third-party repair shop for this issue — it is entirely a software/account matter that only Nintendo can resolve if self-service steps fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nintendo Switch error code 2813-7194?
Error code 2813-7194 means the Nintendo Switch is locked due to a forgotten or incorrectly entered parental controls PIN. It is not a hardware fault — it is a security feature that restricts access until the correct PIN or a Nintendo-issued master key is entered.
How do I reset my Nintendo Switch parental controls PIN without losing data?
You can reset your PIN without losing any data by using the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app on your smartphone or by requesting a master key from Nintendo support. Neither of these methods deletes your games, saves, or user profiles.
How do I get a master key for Nintendo Switch parental controls?
On the PIN entry screen, select the 'Forgot PIN' option to get a unique inquiry number. Then visit support.nintendo.com or call Nintendo support and provide that inquiry number. Nintendo will give you a one-time master key that unlocks the console. The key expires at the end of the same calendar day.
Can I bypass Nintendo Switch parental controls without contacting Nintendo?
The safest and only officially supported bypass is through the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app or a master key from Nintendo. There is no legitimate shortcut that avoids Nintendo entirely. Attempting unauthorized workarounds may violate Nintendo's terms of service and could risk the console's warranty.
Will removing parental controls delete my Nintendo Switch games or saves?
No. Resetting or removing parental controls does not delete your downloaded games, save data, or user profiles. The only action that deletes data is a full factory reset (Initialize Console), which should only be used as an absolute last resort.

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