How to Repair Your PS5 Controller: A Step-by-Step Guide
By Ed Malaker
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) DualSense controller is an amazing piece of technology, featuring immersive haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that enhance the gaming experience. However, like any piece of hardware, it’s not immune to wear and tear, especially if you enjoy games that keep you on the edge of your seat pressing buttons for dear life. If you’re facing problems with your PS5 controller, don’t worry because getting it repaired is pretty easy.
Identify the Issue
Before you look into getting your controller repaired, it’s important to identify and document the problem so there is no confusion as you move forward.
Drift Issues
A common problem with controllers is that one of the analog sticks can develop a drift, which causes movement when you are not touching the controller. This results in the character moving or looking around, and it can also make it difficult to select items in menus.
Button Malfunction
Buttons can occasionally wear out, which can cause them to stop responding or get stuck in a pressed state.
Connectivity Issues
The controller might not connect to the PlayStation console.
Battery Problems
The controller may not hold a charge or charge inconsistently.
Common Issue | Symptom |
|---|---|
Drift | Movement without touching the controller |
Button Malfunction | Button wont respond |
Connectivvity | Won't connect to the console |
Battery | Won't hold a charge |
Check Warranty Status
Your PS5 controller comes with a one-year warranty from Sony, so you’ll want to ensure it’s still covered.
Gather your receipt or check your online purchase history. If you purchased it less than one year ago, Sony will repair or replace it free of charge.
You can also visit the Sony Playstation support page, where they will ask you for the serial number printed on the back of your controller to see if it’s still under warranty.
Quick Tip # 1—The serial number printed on the back of the controller is tiny and hard to read, especially on colored controllers. You can also scan the QR code on the back of the controller with your smartphone to make it easier to read.
Quick Tip #2—The serial number and the QR code are easy to rub off with normal use, so it's a good idea to document the serial number in a safe place as soon as you purchase it.
Contact PlayStation Support
Once you are sure the controller is under warranty and you have the serial number, you can contact customer service to request a repair or replacement. The customer service representative will ask you to describe the problem and will likely walk you through several steps you can take to get the controller working without sending it in, like wiping around the drifting stick with a soft cloth to remove any debris, recalibrating the sensitivity, turning on and off Bluetooth, etc.
Prepare for Shipment
If none of the steps provided by the customer service representative fix the issue, they will likely tell you to send the controller in for repair or replacement. Carefully pack your controller in a sturdy box. Include any documentation Sony requests, such as proof of purchase as per the customer service representative’s instructions, and mail it from your local post office. Unfortunately, Playstation does not cover shipping, but it’s considerably less costly than purchasing a new controller.
Do not include the charging cable or any other accessories,
Track the Repair Process
After shipping, keep track of your repair status by using the tracking number provided to monitor the shipment. You can also log into your PlayStation account and check the repair status using the service request number provided by Sony via email when they receive the controller.
It usually takes 10 – 14 days to get the controller back.
Test Your Repaired Controller
Once you get the controller back, check it for any visible damage and test it on your system to ensure that it works correctly.
What if My Controller is Out of Warranty?
- Look for reputable third-party repair services that specialize in gaming controllers in your area.
- If you are comfortable with electronics, you can purchase repair kits online and follow video tutorials to fix common issues like analog stick drift or button malfunctions.
Final Tips
- Keep your controller clean and store it in a safe place when it is not in use.
- Consider purchasing an extended warranty for future protection.
Follow GeekSided for more tips on keeping your gaming console in top condition.
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