How to fix PS4 controller?

January 25, 2025

Fixing a PS4 controller depends on the specific issue you're facing. Here’s a guide covering common problems, troubleshooting tips, and solutions:

Common PS4 Controller Issues and How to Fix Them

1. Controller Not Connecting or Syncing

Situation: The PS4 controller won't pair with the console or loses connection frequently.
Solution:

Reset the Controller:
1. Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller near the L2 trigger.
2. Use a pin or paperclip to press and hold the reset button for about 5 seconds.
3. Reconnect the controller to the console using a USB cable and press the PS button to re-pair it.
Update the Controller’s Firmware:
Connect the controller to the console via USB, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices, and update the firmware if prompted.

2. Drifting Joystick (Analog Stick Drift)

Situation: The character or cursor moves on its own without touching the joystick.
Solution:

Clean the Analog Sticks:
Use compressed air or a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean around the base of the analog sticks.
Recalibrate the Controller:
Connect it to the console and go to Settings > Devices > Controllers > Adjust Analog Stick Sensitivity (if available).
Replace the Analog Stick Sensors (Advanced):
If cleaning doesn’t help, you may need to replace the internal potentiometers, which requires soldering skills.

3. Buttons Not Responding

Situation: Specific buttons (e.g., X, Circle, or triggers) aren’t working.
Solution:

Clean the Buttons: Remove any dirt or debris lodged under the buttons using a soft cloth or compressed air.
Check for Hardware Damage: Open the controller to check if the internal button connections are worn or damaged. Replace them if necessary.

4. Controller Won’t Charge

Situation: The controller doesn’t charge even when plugged in.
Solution:

Test the USB Cable and Port:
Try a different USB cable or charge the controller using a different USB port.
Replace the Battery:
If the battery is faulty, you’ll need to open the controller and replace it with a compatible replacement.

5. Touchpad Not Working

Situation: The touchpad doesn’t respond or behaves erratically.
Solution:

Clean the Touchpad: Wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth and ensure no dirt is obstructing its functionality.
Update Firmware: Ensure the controller firmware is up-to-date to avoid software-related issues.

6. Headphone Jack Not Working

Situation: No sound comes from headphones plugged into the controller.
Solution:

Clean the Jack: Use compressed air or a toothpick to remove any dirt from the headphone jack.
Check Headphone Settings:
1. Go to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices on your PS4.
2. Set the Output to Headphones to All Audio.
Replace the Jack: If the problem persists, the headphone jack may need replacement.

7. Controller Vibrations Not Working

Situation: The controller doesn’t vibrate during gameplay.
Solution:

Enable Vibration: Check if vibration is turned on in Settings > Devices > Controllers > Enable Vibration.
Replace Vibration Motors (Advanced): If the motors are damaged, they can be replaced, though it requires opening the controller.

8. Sticky or Stiff Buttons

Situation: Buttons stick or don’t press smoothly.
Solution:

Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol: Use a cotton swab to clean around the buttons, removing any sticky residue.
Disassemble and Clean: If the issue persists, open the controller and clean the internal parts carefully.

9. Controller Keeps Disconnecting

Situation: The controller disconnects randomly during gameplay.
Solution:

Check for Signal Interference: Ensure no devices are causing Bluetooth interference near the console.
Update the Console Software: Go to Settings > System Software Update and ensure your PS4 is running the latest version.

10. PS4 Controller Overheating

Situation: The controller becomes unusually hot during use.
Solution:

Avoid Overcharging: Unplug the controller when it’s fully charged.
Check for Internal Issues: Open the controller and ensure no components are overheating due to damage or short circuits.

When to Replace Your PS4 Controller

If the above solutions don’t work, and the controller has multiple hardware failures or severe damage (e.g., cracked housing or unresponsive circuit board), it may be time to invest in a new controller.

YouTube Channel Recommendations for Repairs

For visual guidance on repairing your PS4 controller, check out these YouTube channels:

TronicsFix: Specializes in console and controller repairs, with step-by-step tutorials.
Game Console Repair: Offers detailed instructions on fixing various PS4 controller issues.
iFixit: A trusted source for teardown and repair guides.
Let’s focus on one common issue: Analog Stick Drift (where your character or cursor moves on its own). Here's a detailed guide with extra tips to fix it effectively. Let me know if you’d prefer a different issue instead!

How to Fix PS4 Controller Analog Stick Drift

Analog stick drift is one of the most frustrating problems for gamers. Over time, dirt, dust, and wear on the controller’s internals can cause the joystick to register movement even when you’re not touching it. Here’s how to fix it:

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Clean the Analog Sticks (Quick Fix)

Sometimes, debris around the joystick base causes drift. Cleaning it might solve the issue.

What You’ll Need:
- Isopropyl alcohol (preferably 70% or higher)
- Cotton swabs or a microfiber cloth
- Compressed air (optional)
Steps:
1. Power off your PS4 controller.
2. Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol (don’t soak it).
3. Gently rub the cotton swab around the base of the analog stick, focusing on the area where the stick meets the controller.
4. Move the stick in all directions while cleaning to ensure you reach all angles.
5. Let it dry for a few minutes before testing.
2. Reset the Controller

If cleaning doesn’t work, resetting the controller might help recalibrate it.

Steps:
1. Locate the reset button on the back of the controller, near the L2 trigger.
2. Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the button for 5–10 seconds.
3. Reconnect the controller to your console with a USB cable and press the PS button to re-pair it.
3. Calibrate the Analog Sticks on PC (Optional)

If you also use your controller on a PC, calibrating it in Windows might resolve drift issues.

Steps (Windows):
1. Connect your controller to the PC via USB.
2. Open the Control Panel and go to Devices and Printers.
3. Right-click on your controller and select Game Controller Settings > Properties.
4. Navigate to the Settings tab and click Calibrate.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to recalibrate the analog sticks.
4. Disassemble and Deep Clean the Controller (Advanced Fix)

If the problem persists, you may need to clean or replace the internal components.

What You’ll Need:
- A small Phillips screwdriver
- Compressed air
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Replacement analog stick sensors (if needed)
Steps:
1. Remove the screws on the back of the controller and carefully open it.
2. Detach the battery and any ribbon cables connected to the main board.
3. Use compressed air to blow out any dust inside the controller.
4. Clean the joystick module with isopropyl alcohol, focusing on the green potentiometers (the small circular components on the side of the module).
5. If cleaning doesn’t work, replace the joystick module. Unsolder the old module and solder in a new one (requires soldering skills).
6. Reassemble the controller and test.
5. Replace the Controller if Necessary

If the drift persists after trying all these steps, the joystick module or circuit board may be too damaged. Consider replacing the controller or getting it repaired professionally.

Additional Tips to Prevent Drift
- Store your controller in a clean, dust-free environment.
- Avoid pressing down too hard on the analog sticks during gameplay.
- Clean your controller regularly to prevent debris buildup.
Video Tutorial for Visual Guidance

For step-by-step instructions, check out this video:

Title: How to Fix PS4 Controller Analog Stick Drift
Channel: TronicsFix
Duration: ~10 minutes