How to Fix PS4 Controller Stick Drift

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A controller is an essential component of PS4, as it is used to play games. But since it is always in the hands of the gamer, mega spamming on the buttons, constant clicks, and throwing the controller on the bed after losing the game can sometimes cause internal damage to it.

One such common issue faced by controller users is the analog stick drift. Such a problem can be fixed by following a few steps. The following article will give you a detail on how to fix PS4 controller drift.

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What Causes PS4 Controllers to drift?

Before we get into the full-fledged solution to the given problem, we must know the basic causes of the PS4 controller acting weird.

A major reason for the PS4 controller to act on its own is the build-up of dirt and debris inside the controller. This makes the analog stick acting weird as it jerks left and right without you initiating any touch to it. Such an issue can be problematic during gaming as you may end up with your characters moving here and there without your involvement.

Another reason for the PS4 controller stick drift can be due to damages to the analog stick that can result in the same problem mentioned above. Apart from these, issues in wiring, as well as software mishaps, can result in a similar problem of analog drift.

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How to Fix PS4 Controller Analog Stick Drift

Now, there are various ways to fix the PS4 controller drift crisis. The five basic tips on how to fix the PS4 analog stick drift are mentioned below.

1. Reset your Dualshock 4

This one trick in the handbook can fix any software issue in your PS4 controller that may be giving you a hard time with your analog stick drift. If your controller is facing some internal mega blocks, try this method to get it back on track.

• Turn off your PS4 to unpair your controller.
• On the back of the controller, a reset button will be present.
• Press and hold the button for 3 seconds.
• Restart your PS4 and pair your controller.

2. Cleaning your PS4 controller

If you are sure that your controller has no internal damages, then the next thing you can do is to give it a blow-dry clean from the outside. Simply follow the steps given below to make your controller neat and clean:

• Disconnect your Dualshock 4 and rub it thoroughly with a microfibre towel.
• Use compressed air to spray through the junctures in the along stick to remove any dirt particles that may have accumulated over time.
• Use a cotton swab to eliminate debris around the analog sticks.

Related: How to Get PS4 Out of Safe Mode

3. Disassemble and deep clean

If the normal method of cleansing did not fix your analog drift issue, then you can proceed with a deep clean by disassembling your controller.

• Remove the screws from the back of your controller.
• Gently pull apart the two halves of your controller.
• Take out the ribbon attaching the two shells.
• Take out the two plastic attachments holding the battery and then take out the battery from the motherboard.
• Disconnect the cable from the motherboard.
• Detach the motherboard from the shell, taking care of the cable strip.
• Blow some air around the analog sticks or clean them using a cotton swab dipped in cleansing alcohol.
• After thoroughly cleaning the area, assemble your controller back.

        You can follow this video tutorial for a visual guide.

4. Getting a replacement for your controller

You can get a replacement for your controller if it is still under warranty from Sony. Visit their site and go to the replacement page which will further guide you as to how to contact and get a new controller concerning the PS4 controller drift you have experienced.

5. Changing the analog sticks

This method can be used for analog sticks that have gone through a lot of wear and tear and are the only way to get your controller with no software issue to get going. Follow up with the same steps mentioned to disassemble your PS4 controller and simply pull out the analog sticks attached to the board.

Now, you can attach your new pair of sticks to the board and reassemble your controller. It should be perfectly working now without any analog stick drift issue that will cost you your game.

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Conclusion

These simple fixes can assure you of the dismissal of your PS4 controller stick drift. For longevity of your controller, it is recommended to occasionally give it a good dusting and cleaning for such a cause to not occur and to prevent any dust build up inside. If the PS4 controller analog stick drift issue persists after all these methods (keeping in mind the warranty for the replacement), it is advised to either get your hardware changed or buy a new and functional controller.

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FAQ

What is the PS5 controller drift?

The PS5 controller drift is generally the analog stick issue that occurs due to which the controller identifies movement patterns on the screen without the player touching the device. A common factor for this drift to happen is due to dust and particles accumulating inside the joysticks. This usually causes trouble during gaming as your controller starts to register unnecessary motions without your control.

Can you fix the PS4 controller drift?

Yes, you can fix the PS4 controller drift at home if you are sure your analog sticks are clogged with dirt. Simply, give it a thorough cleaning using a microfibre towel or alcohol-dipped cotton swab. If the issue still persists then you may give it a factory reset or a replacement.

Why is my PS4 controller drifting?

PS4 controller drifting occurs due to the build-up of dust and clogging of the analog sticks due to the particles and debris. This can be a major reason why your PS4 controller is drifting and causing your gameplay to erode. A recommended method to get rid of such a drift is to clean your analog sticks using pressurized air or via cotton swab and alcohol.

Do PS4 controllers break easily?

As hopeful as the answer to this should be, the truth is PS4 controllers do break easily if a lot of roughness is dealt with on them. It usually depends on how careful the user is with the product as controllers are made from affordable materials thus making them prone to damage real quick. They surely do not last for a lifetime so the best way to prolong their durability is to handle them with care and keeping their hygiene to the finest.