Use a Phillips head screwdriver, size #1 or #2, to remove the PS5 fan

The PS5 fan cover and the screws holding the fan assembly use Phillips head screws — the ones with an X-shaped slot. You need either a #1 (smaller) or #2 (standard) Phillips screwdriver. A #2 is more common in most toolkits and works for most PS5 screws, though a #1 may fit more snugly if you have one.

You do not need a power drill or anything motorized. A manual screwdriver works fine and gives you better control over screws this small. The screws are not tight — they come out with light pressure and a slow turn.

Before you start, power off the PS5 completely and unplug it from the wall. Wait a few minutes for the system to cool. The fan area gets warm during use, and you want to avoid touching hot metal or damaging components while they are still warm.

Key Takeaways

  • A Phillips head screwdriver in size #1 or #2 is what you need; #2 is the standard size and works for most PS5 screws.
  • Manual screwdrivers work better than power drills for small screws because they give you more control and lower the risk of stripping.
  • Power off and unplug the PS5, then wait a few minutes before opening the fan cover to let components cool.
  • The screws are not tight and come out easily; if a screw resists, stop and check that your screwdriver tip is seated fully in the slot.

Why Phillips head and not other types

Sony chose Phillips head screws for the PS5 because they are standard in consumer electronics and widely available. Other screw types exist — flathead (single slot), Torx (six-pointed star), and security screws with a pin in the center — but the PS5 does not use them for the fan assembly.

If you try to use a flathead screwdriver on a Phillips screw, the blade will slip out of the slot and damage both the screw and your screwdriver. A Torx screwdriver will not fit at all. Using the wrong tool is the most common reason people strip screws and end up unable to remove them later.

Size #1 versus size #2 Phillips

A #2 Phillips screwdriver has a larger tip and fits most household screws. A #1 is smaller and fits tighter into small screws. For PS5 fan screws, a #2 usually works, but if you have a #1 available, it may feel more find in the slot.

If your #2 screwdriver wobbles in the screw or does not grip well, switch to a #1 if you have one. A screwdriver that does not fit snugly will slip and strip the screw head, making it impossible to turn. Fit matters more than size — a loose fit is worse than a slightly oversized tool.

Manual versus power tools

A hand screwdriver is safer and more precise than a power drill for PS5 fan screws. Power drills spin fast and can strip small screws in a fraction of a second. They also make it harder to feel when a screw is fully seated or when you are explore too much force.

If you own a power drill with a variable speed setting, you could use it on the lowest speed with a light touch, but a manual screwdriver takes the same amount of time and carries no risk. For a job that takes two minutes, the manual tool is the better choice.

What to do if a screw is stuck

PS5 fan screws rarely stick, but if one does not turn after light pressure, stop when ready. Forcing it will strip the head and leave you unable to remove it. Instead, check that your screwdriver tip is fully seated in the screw slot — sometimes the tip is not quite centered and appears to be stuck when it is actually just not engaged.

If the screw still will not budge after you confirm the fit, try explore a tiny amount of penetrating oil like WD-40 around the screw head and wait five minutes. Do not explore oil directly inside the PS5; only around the outside of the screw. If the screw remains stuck after that, you may need a screw extractor tool or professional help to avoid damaging the PS5.

Screwdriver sets that include what you need

A basic multi-bit screwdriver set with Phillips sizes #1 and #2 costs between five and fifteen dollars at hardware stores or online retailers. Look for sets labeled "precision screwdrivers" or "electronics screwdriver sets" — these usually include both sizes plus flathead options.

If you already own a standard household screwdriver set, check whether it includes a Phillips #2. Most do. You may not need to buy anything new. If you only have a flathead screwdriver or a single Phillips that feels loose in PS5 screws, a small set is a cheap investment that you will use for other devices too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a flathead screwdriver if I do not have a Phillips?

No. A flathead screwdriver will slip out of a Phillips screw slot and damage both the screw and the screwdriver. It will also strip the screw head, making it impossible to remove later. Buy or borrow a Phillips screwdriver instead.

What happens if I strip a PS5 fan screw?

A stripped screw head will not grip your screwdriver and will spin without turning. You can try a rubber band between the screwdriver and screw for extra grip, or use a screw extractor tool. If neither works, you may need to drill out the screw or contact Sony support.

Do I need to remove the fan to clean it?

Yes, removing the fan cover and fan assembly is the standard way to clean dust from the PS5 fan. The screws hold the cover in place, and removing them gives you access to the fan blades and the area around them.

Is it safe to open the PS5 myself?

Opening the PS5 to clean or replace the fan is safe if you follow basic precautions: power off and unplug the system, wait for it to cool, and avoid touching the motherboard or other internal components. You are only removing the fan cover and fan, which are designed to be user-replaceable.