NEC TOKIN Capacitor Replacement Service - $175
One year warranty
Turn around time is not a year (Typically up to two weeks)
Replace all 8 NEC TOKIN capacitors with COKilizers
Delid and thermal paste replacement
Full thermal pad replacement
CELL brace installation
Optional additional services:
Clock battery replacement - $10
Syscon fan table adjustment - $30
CELL / RSX VDDC adjustment - $30
*VDDC adjustment may provide better overclocking ability or lower operating temperatures depending on your goals. However this is done purely at your own risk as doing so may cause unstable operation or reduce the life of your system.
Why should I get this?
All fat model PS3's and early 2000 model PS3 slims have NEC TOKIN capacitors installed. These capacitors smooth out voltage and filter out electrical noise from the power feeding into the PS3's main processors. However the NEC TOKIN capacitors also internally oxidize and degrade over time due to heat, leading your PS3 to feed unstable power to the RSX and CELL processors, which leads to random crashes in games or in extreme cases, the YLOD.
Because the original NEC TOKIN capacitors are no longer manufactured, it is recommended that the original capacitors are replaced with modern alternative parts that match or exceed the original spec. That's where our custom made product dubbed the "COKilzer" comes in.
This service covers the replacement of all 8 NEC TOKIN capacitors with the "COKilizer" which utilizes genuine Panasonic SP-Caps paired with Samsung MLCC capacitors to effectively match or beat the NEC TOKIN capacitor's performance when new. The capacitors we use are also rated to last twice as long compared to the NEC TOKINs, are professionally assembled to the custom "COKilzer" PCB, and electrically tested at JLCPCB's factory to ensure the best results for every PS3.
Note that not all NEC TOKIN replacement PCB's are created equally! Some sellers on eBay harvest old capacitors from PS3 slim donor boards and resell them as new replacements, meaning you may be installing capacitors that are just as degraded as the ones being removed. Others source their components from unverified suppliers on platforms like AliExpress, which commonly carry factory rejects or counterfeit parts that will not perform to spec. Poor soldering quality is also a concern, as sloppy assembly can introduce stress on the capacitors that shortens their lifespan even if the parts themselves are genuine. If you're going to invest in this repair, make sure the replacement board uses verifiably new components from reputable distributors like Mouser or Digi-Key.
How do I send in my system?
To ensure that your system is safely shipped, it is recommended following the advice listed below:
1. Use a new or like-new corrugated cardboard box rated for the weight of the PS3. Avoid reused or worn boxes unless they’re structurally sound.
2. At Least 2 Inches of Cushioning on All Sides.
• Wrap the PS3 completely with bubble wrap and place it in the center of the box so it doesn’t touch the sides.
• Use bubble wrap, foam, or thick packing paper to fill in any empty space.
• When the box is closed, ensure the system does not move when the box is shaken.
3. Seal Properly
• Use strong packing tape (2-inch wide, preferably H-tape method) on all seams.
• Do not use masking, scotch, or duct tape.
4. Label Clearly
• Avoid placing labels over seams.
• Include your name, contact info and return address inside the box.
Once you are ready to send in your system, please fill out the form at our contact page and we will provide you with further instructions.
What is the attempt fee?
Nothing. If we are unable to successfully complete this service, then you do not pay anything for the service.
If you would prefer to DIY this repair yourself, we sell our custom made capacitor replacements here: