Is Nintendo still replacing Joy-Cons for free?

As of 2023, Nintendo continues to offer free replacements for faulty Joy-Con controllers, especially those suffering from the drifting issue. The Joy-Con drift problem, where the controller registers movement even when the joystick is untouched, has been a widespread issue with the Nintendo Switch controllers since their release in 2017.

Nintendo's Repair/Replacement Policy for Joy-Con Drift

Nintendo has acknowledged the Joy-Con drift issue and has been repairing or replacing Joy-Con controllers free of charge in certain circumstances, even after the warranty has expired. This policy is applicable for controllers showing signs of drifting, where the joystick erroneously registers input, making games harder to control.

1. Free Repairs:

   • If you are experiencing Joy-Con drift or other defects, you can contact Nintendo’s customer service for a repair or replacement. In many cases, Nintendo will cover the repair cost even if your warranty has expired.

2. No Warranty Required:

   • Nintendo has made it clear that even out-of-warranty Joy-Cons can be repaired or replaced for free if they are affected by the drift issue. If your Joy-Cons are drifting, you do not need to provide proof of purchase or have them still under warranty to receive a free replacement.

3. How to Get a Replacement:

   • You can initiate a repair or replacement through Nintendo’s official support website. You’ll need to log into your Nintendo account and submit a service request.
   • If you prefer, you can also contact Nintendo’s customer service directly through phone or chat to begin the process.
   • In some cases, Nintendo may ask you to ship the defective Joy-Con to their repair center.

4. Other Issues:

   • If your Joy-Cons are damaged (not due to drifting) or have other problems, such as physical breakage or water damage, you will likely need to pay for the repair, as these are not covered under the free replacement policy.

When Is the Free Replacement Policy Limited?

While Nintendo generally continues to offer free repairs for drifting issues, there are some limits to this policy:

• No physical damage: The controller must be free of physical damage (e.g., cracks, dents, water damage). If the controllers have been physically damaged, you will likely be charged for the repair.
• Not for all issues: The policy specifically targets drift-related issues. If your Joy-Cons are not drifting, but you’re experiencing other types of malfunctions, they may not be eligible for free repair.

How to Prevent Joy-Con Drift

To prevent further issues with Joy-Con drift or prolong the life of your controllers, here are a few tips:

• Keep the controllers clean: Dust, dirt, and debris can get into the joystick mechanism and cause issues. Regularly clean your Joy-Cons using a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the joystick.
• Use a protective case: If you often dock your Switch or travel with it, using a case to protect the controllers can reduce the risk of physical damage.
• Avoid harsh pressure on the joysticks: Try to avoid pressing the joysticks too hard or in unnatural directions, as this can stress the internal components over time.

Conclusion

Yes, Nintendo is still replacing Joy-Cons for free if they experience drift issues, even if they are out of warranty. If you're facing this problem, it’s worth reaching out to Nintendo’s customer service for a free repair or replacement. For further options or accessories, you can also explore other Joy-Con controllers or third-party controllers that offer a different experience for your Nintendo Switch.

For new controllers, check out our selection at Youwei Trade Gaming Controllers to find the right fit for your gameplay style!