Why does my PS2 keep pausing games? It's happening when I play PS1 and PS2 games and I've even cleaned the console but it's the same result.

Possible Causes

1. Dirty or Misaligned Laser: The laser lens may be dirty or misaligned, which is a common issue in older consoles. Cleaning the lens can often resolve this problem. If you're comfortable doing so, you can open the console and clean the laser manually or use a cleaning disc designed for this purpose
2. Disc Issues: Scratched or damaged discs can also cause freezing or pausing during gameplay. Ensure that the discs are clean and free from scratches. If possible, test with different games to determine if the issue persists across all titles
3. Controller Malfunction: Sometimes, a faulty controller can cause unexpected behavior, such as pausing during gameplay. If your controller has a short or malfunctioning rumble feature, it might trigger pauses. Try using a different controller to see if the problem continues
4. Corrosion or Internal Damage: If there's internal corrosion due to spills or damage, it can affect the console's performance. Inspect the internals for any signs of liquid damage or corrosion, especially around the laser and motherboard components Cleaning the internal components may be necessary if corrosion is present.
5. Clock Battery Issues: The PS2's internal clock battery might need replacing if the system is experiencing issues related to time settings or freezing during startup. A fresh battery could potentially resolve some of these problems
6. Firmware Issues: Occasionally, software glitches can cause games to freeze. Ensure that your console's firmware is up to date and consider resetting it if necessary

Recommendations

• Clean the Laser: Use a cleaning disc or carefully open the console to clean the laser lens.
• Check Discs: Inspect and clean your game discs thoroughly.
• Test Different Controllers: Try using another controller to rule out controller-related issues.
• Inspect Internals: If comfortable, check for any signs of corrosion or damage inside the console.
• Replace Clock Battery: Consider replacing the internal clock battery if it's old.