Rocket League Error Code 85: How to Fix It

Medium 20-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
85
Brand
Rocket League
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
20-60 minutes
Rocket League Error Code 85 indicates a ghost ping or packet loss disconnect, meaning your game client lost its connection to the Rocket League servers even though your internet appeared to be working. This typically happens when data packets traveling between your device and Psyonix servers are being dropped, delayed, or corrupted somewhere along the network path. The result is an unexpected kick from a match or lobby, often with little warning.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 85

  1. Check Rocket League Server Status

  2. Restart Your Router and Modem

  3. Switch to a Wired Ethernet Connection

  4. Run a Packet Loss Test

  5. Flush DNS Cache and Renew IP Address

  6. Change Your DNS Server to a Faster Alternative

  7. Disable Background Applications and Bandwidth Hogs

  8. Enable QoS (Quality of Service) on Your Router

  9. Check and Update Network Adapter Drivers (PC Only)

  10. Verify Rocket League Game Files (PC/Epic/Steam)

  11. Contact Your ISP About Packet Loss

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When to Call a Professional

If you have completed all steps above and still experience Error Code 85, and your packet loss tests confirm data is being dropped at the first or second network hop (meaning inside or very close to your home), contact your Internet Service Provider to schedule a technician visit. A technician can test your physical line for signal degradation, check coaxial or phone line splitters, replace a failing modem supplied by your ISP, or identify neighborhood-level congestion issues. If your modem is your own purchased equipment and is several years old, consider replacing it with a newer certified model compatible with your ISP plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Rocket League Error Code 85 mean?
Error Code 85 in Rocket League refers to a ghost ping or packet loss disconnect. It means your game client lost communication with the Rocket League servers due to network packets being dropped or delayed along your connection path, causing the game to kick you from a match or lobby.
Will I lose my ranked MMR for an Error Code 85 disconnect?
Unfortunately, Rocket League does not currently distinguish between intentional rage-quits and network-related disconnects like Error Code 85. If you are disconnected mid-match due to this error, you may receive a matchmaking ban or lose MMR depending on how much of the match was completed. Psyonix's abandon penalty system applies regardless of the reason for the disconnect.
Does a VPN help fix Rocket League Error Code 85?
A VPN can sometimes help if your ISP is routing your traffic inefficiently to Rocket League servers, as the VPN may use a more direct path. However, a VPN can also make packet loss worse by adding an extra hop to your connection. It is worth testing a reputable gaming VPN (such as Exitlag or Mudfish, which are designed for gaming latency) but do not rely on this as a permanent solution — addressing the root cause of packet loss is always better.
Why does Error Code 85 only happen in Rocket League and not other games?
Rocket League is particularly sensitive to packet loss because it uses a fast-paced UDP-based connection that requires consistent low-latency communication. Other games may use more forgiving TCP connections or have larger tolerances for packet loss before disconnecting. Even 1-2% packet loss that you would never notice while browsing the web or watching video can cause Rocket League to trigger Error Code 85.
Can a bad Ethernet cable cause Rocket League Error Code 85?
Yes. A damaged, low-quality, or very long Ethernet cable can introduce packet loss just like a bad Wi-Fi signal. If you are already using a wired connection and still see Error Code 85, try swapping your Ethernet cable for a new one — ideally a Cat6 or Cat6a cable rated for gigabit speeds. Also ensure the cable is properly seated in both the wall port and your device's Ethernet jack.

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