How to factory reset Wii U: without PIN, without gamepad

If you are having trouble with your Wii U console, you may consider resetting it to its factory settings, however, please note that by doing this, all of your saved games, user profiles, and custom settings will be deleted from the console.

How to reset your Wii U to its original factory settings?

• Start your Wii U and tap on the Wii U gamepad's Settings icon (the wrench). The System Settings menu will be displayed.

• Next, go back to the Wii U gamepad and use the left stick to move to the Delete All Content and Settings section. Press A to select. You will be requested to enter your PIN if you have enabled the Parental Control feature.

• Click OK, then tap Next > Delete Everything to complete the reset.

How to reset Wii U without PIN?

• If you have forgotten the PIN or don't have access, go into the parental controls in the Wii U menu. 
• Select parental controls and then select forgot PIN.
• You will then receive a prompt to enter your secret question. Once this has been done, you can then change the PIN.

Now you can follow the steps above to reset your Wii U. 

Can you reset a Wii U without the gamepad?

Unfortunately, no, without the gamepad, you cannot reset a Wii U, as this is the Wii U. If the gamepad does not function correctly, either the sticks or buttons are broken, then similarly, there isn't much you can do. You can try and find someone that can repair your Wii U gamepad. However, considering how old the Wii U is now, it is unlikely. Conversely, as it quite an old console, you should be able to purchase a used one at a discounted rate.