Arcade game machines, despite their nostalgic charm, are prone to several common failure points due to wear and tear, age, or improper maintenance. Here are the most frequent issues and how they are typically resolved:

1. Joystick and Button Failures

Overuse can cause joysticks to become unresponsive or buttons to stick. Replacing worn-out microswitches or cleaning debris under buttons often fixes the problem.

2. Monitor or Screen Issues

Flickering screens or distorted graphics may result from faulty capacitors or loose connections. Recapping the monitor or reseating cables can restore display quality.

3. Power Supply Problems

Intermittent power or complete failure often stems from aging power supplies. Swapping out old units with modern replacements ensures stable operation.

4. Coin Mechanism Jams

Dirt or worn parts can prevent coins from registering. Cleaning the mechanism or replacing damaged sensors usually resolves the issue.

5. PCB (Circuit Board) Failures

Corrosion or damaged traces on PCBs can cause game crashes. Repairing traces or replacing faulty chips is often necessary.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and inspecting components, can prevent many of these issues. For complex repairs, consulting a professional arcade technician is recommended to preserve the machine’s longevity.