According to TronicsFix, in early PS5 models, liquid metal can shift over time from under the APU cooling system, especially if the console stands vertically for a long time. Another problem cited is insufficient power supply ventilation.
In a new video, TronicsFix disassembled two PS5s with overheating complaints. In both cases, the liquid metal had indeed shifted, and reapplying it resolved the issue – the consoles stopped showing overheating warnings in some games.
First, try to keep your PS5 clean. Second, even with the PS5 Slim, the liquid metal issue remains serious. The main design flaw of the PS5 is the liquid metal flowing off the APU. And third, the ventilation is inadequate. In my opinion, it's not enough for the PS5's power supply. These vents are too small and simply poorly designed.
Similar conclusions were reached by Salem Techsperts. Sony corrected the design flaw only in the PS5 CFI-2100 version, released in September 2025. It received a modified cooling contact surface with grooves, similar to the PS5 Pro, which prevents liquid metal displacement.