This article explains how to fix PS4 controller drift (aka analog stick drift). Instructions apply to the official Sony DualShock 4 controller, but these troubleshooting tips will also work for third-party controllers. Show
If your character or the camera keeps moving when you're not touching the controller, the problem's source is likely analog stick drift. PS4 controller drift can be due to one of two things:
You can expect general wear-and-tear from frequent use. If cleaning the controller doesn't fix the problem, you should look into getting your controller replaced or repaired before disassembling it. Ensure your controller is turned off, and then follow the steps below until it is working properly.
After trying each fix, test the analog sticks by moving them around in circles and clicking the L3 and R3 buttons (by pressing on the analog stick).
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PS4 gamers know all too well how a bad controller can ruin their day, but you don't have to put your gaming on hold or go out and buy one of the best PS4 controllers when yours is on the fritz. Here are some common issues you may run into with your DualShock controller, as well as suggestions on how you can fix them. Products used in this guide
What to do when your PS4 controller doesn't connect
If your DualShock still isn't connecting to your PS4, try these steps instead.
If neither of those options works, you'll need to reset your controller entirely.
Sometimes, during the PS4 controller troubleshooting process, it just fails to sync with the console. It's worth noting that the PS4 uses a standard Bluetooth connection, so if you use your controller with multiple devices — such as your PC, smartphone, or tablet — you'll want to make sure it's not connected to anything else while you're trying to connect it to your PS4. If you're still experiencing issues connecting your DualShock controller to your PS4, it could also come down to the USB cable you're using. I've had cables that perfectly charged my phone, but won't connect my controller to the PlayStation. That's mostly due to small dents the DualShock is sensitive to that other forms of technology aren't. So I bought a cable specifically for charging my DualShock and don't use it for anything else to avoid accidental damage. Even then, I find myself replacing the cable at least once a year. What to do when your PS4 controller doesn't charge
When you remove the cable from your DualShock controller, give it a good inspection. Use the flashlight on your phone and shine it into the charging port. If the metal inside looks bent or warped, you can either attempt to bend it back into shape yourself, call upon a professional to do it for you, or replace the entire controller. We do not recommend attempting to bend the metal back into place yourself, as it might break the warranty of your device. Regardless of whether or not the metal inside of your charging port looks OK, it might be dirty. If you are noticing a bit of dust or grime buildup, follow these next steps.
Wait for the controller to be completely dry before attempting to turn it back on. Do not use the can of compressed air to speed this process up. You'll just end up pushing the water back into the controller. What to do if your PS4 controller trackpad is not working
Wait for the controller to be COMPLETELY dry before attempting to turn it back on. Do not use the can of compressed air to speed this process up. You're just going to end up pushing the water back into the controller. Beyond that, a broken trackpad is cause for repair or replacement. However, it won't do you any good to try and replace it because the part is not readily available. Also, you would potentially compromise your controller's USB port since the trackpad is connected by the same ribbon that powers it. What to do if your PS4 controller buttons are sticking
Wait for the controller to be completely dry before attempting to turn it back on. Do not use the can of compressed air to speed this process up. You're just going to end up pushing the water back into the controller. What to do if PS4 controller can't hold a chargeWhile we love the PS4 controller, one downside that we can't get over is its lack of a user-replaceable battery. This is because batteries tend to degrade over time, and some of them degrade so harshly that they can fail to hold a charge for more than an hour. If your controller is dying too fast -- or worse yet, it simply won't turn on -- it could be due to a bad battery. Replacing it is pretty easy, thankfully. All you'll need to do is buy a replacement battery, a pair of tweezers, and then follow the instructions below. Note: You may void your warranty if you take your PS4 controller apart yourself. Be sure that your warranty is no longer valid and no other means to repair or replace the controller can suffice before attempting this.
And there you have it! One shiny new battery to enjoy a much longer lifespan with! Nothing worked. What do I do now?(Image credit: Source: Android Central)If none of the above worked or you are uncomfortable performing some of these troubleshooting steps, then perhaps it's time to give Sony a call. Ask them about your warranty, see what's covered, and what you can do to get repairs or replacements. Since the controller gets the most mechanical wear out of all your components no amount of tender love can stand up to the long-term effects of regular use. At the end of the day, if none of these tips are working, you'll need to replace your DualShock controller entirely. Don't worry. We've found the cheapest place to buy a DualShock and the coolest options that are out there! Check it out below! Everything you need to repair or replaceHere are all the products we used in this guide to repair a DualShock controller. If the repairs didn't work for you and your DualShock is out of warranty, here are the best buying options for replacements. (Image credit: SecurOMax)SecurOMax HDMI braided cord cable - 15 feet (opens in new tab) ($12 at Amazon) If you need a new HDMI cable, you definitely want to use the braided cords for durability. This HDMI cable is 15 feet long to give you more than enough length to set up your console however you want to. (Image credit: MagicFiber)6-Pack of MagicFiber microfiber cleaning cloths (opens in new tab) ($9 at Amazon) When you think about microfiber cloths, you usually assume they're only good for glasses, screens, or computers. But you can also use them with your PlayStation 4 as well. (Image credit: Office Depot)3-Pack of Office Depot compressed air cans (opens in new tab) ($18 at Amazon) One of the things that all tech gurus should have available is a can of compressed air. It's not only handy for your PS4 but can be used for your keyboard, laptop, and other gear. (Image credit: MG Chemicals)MG Chemicals 99.9% isopropyl alcohol electronics cleaner (opens in new tab) ($16 at Amazon) This spray bottle of 99% isopropyl alcohol is perfect for disinfecting and cleaning your gear. It removes water and humidity from sensitive components like circuit boards and connectors, leaving them dry. (Image credit: MPF Products)MPF Products DualShock 4 battery replacement kit (opens in new tab) ($15 at Amazon) This kit comes with a battery replacement and tools to help you take apart your DualShock for repairs. Thick plastic tools tend to make the job a little flimsy, which is why I prefer to use thin tweezers instead. If you prefer that route as well, check out the best tweezer option below! (Image credit: MABIS)MABIS stainless steel tweezers (opens in new tab) ($5 at Amazon) Tweezers are endlessly useful in both the tech and beauty world. This is the perfect tool always to have sitting around your house, from shaping up your eyebrows to taking apart motherboards! (Image credit: PlayStation)DualShock 4 wireless controller (opens in new tab) ($60 at Best Buy) If you have to replace your DualShock, you might as well personalize it. There are plenty of different color options for you to choose from, all of which are gorgeous! |