Xbox 360 Error Code E105: How to Fix It

Q: What causes Xbox 360 Error Code E105?

Error Code E105 is caused by a failed boot loader checksum, which means the console cannot verify that its startup firmware is intact and uncorrupted. The most common causes are a failed or interrupted system update, sudden power loss while the console was writing to its NAND flash memory, or physical degradation of the flash memory chip over time.

Q: Will I lose my saved games if I fix Xbox 360 Error E105?

If your saved games are stored on a detachable hard drive, they are generally safe during a system software recovery. However, any data stored on the console's internal memory — including profiles and settings — may be erased during a factory reset or firmware re-flash. It is always best to store save data on a hard drive or USB storage device rather than the console's internal memory.

Q: Can a failed Xbox Live update cause Error E105?

Yes. If an Xbox Live system update was interrupted mid-process due to a network dropout, power outage, or manual shutdown, it can corrupt the boot loader stored in the NAND flash, resulting in Error E105 on the next startup. This is one of the most common triggers for this error code.

Q: Is Xbox 360 Error E105 the same as the Red Ring of Death?

No, they are different errors. The Red Ring of Death (RROD) typically refers to hardware failure errors such as E74 or general hardware faults indicated by three red lights, often related to GPU or solder joint issues. Error E105 is specifically a software/firmware problem involving the boot loader checksum and can often be resolved without hardware replacement.

Q: Is it worth repairing an Xbox 360 with Error Code E105?

If the fix is achievable through a USB offline update, it is absolutely worth attempting since the cost is essentially zero. If the repair requires professional NAND re-flashing or board-level work, you should weigh the repair cost against the current market value of the console and whether you have irreplaceable data on it. Given that the Xbox 360 is a legacy console, a professional repair may cost more than simply replacing the unit.

Abstract

Xbox 360 Error Code E105 indicates that the console's boot loader checksum has failed, meaning the system cannot verify the integrity of its startup software. This typically happens after a failed system update, corrupted flash memory, or a sudden power loss during a firmware write. In most cases, you can resolve this by re-flashing the firmware or performing a recovery update using a USB drive.