Broken Sony PS4 Controller Repair

‍PS4 Controller Repair Method 1: Controller Not Connecting

If your PS4 controller is not connecting to the console, try connecting it via USB as follows:

1. Plug the DualShock 4 into the console with the USB cable.
2. Press and hold the round PlayStation home button to trigger the controller to resync.

If the controller fails to connect this way, follow these steps instead:

1. Turn off your console.
2. Connect the controller to the turned-off console with a USB cable.
3. Press and hold the PlayStation home button again.
4. Turn on the console, and the controller will automatically resync.

However, if these steps still don't work, you will have to do a hard reset on your controller. Follows these steps to reset the DualShock 4:

1. Rotate the controller until the backside is visible. Look for a tiny hole next to the screw near the L2 button.
2. Get a sim jacket pin or any tiny and thin poking device to jam in the hole.
3. Press and hold the reset button inside for 10 seconds.
4. Connect the controller via USB cable to the console.
5. Press and hold the home button to attempt another resync.

Sometimes, the syncing process fails as the controller is connected to another Bluetooth device. Check your smartphone, tablet, or computer to ensure the DualShock isn't connected to anything else before attempting to sync it to the console.

PS4 Controller Repair Method 2: Controller Not Charging

If your PS4 controller isn't charging, the first step is verifying your USB cable's integrity. Connect it to another device and confirm its condition. You will need to replace it if it feels loose or not secure in the device's port.

However, if the cable works fine on other devices, you must inspect the PS4 controller's USB port using a flashlight. You might have a faulty charging port, which can be verified by checking for bent or warped metal inside. We don't recommend attempting to fix the metal yourself and suggest contacting a professional.

Before doing that, you can also try cleaning the port using a can of compressed air to make sure it isn't dirty. Follow these steps:

1. With the can's nozzle at least two inches away from the port, blast it with air in successive short bursts.
2. Do this until all the dust has been knocked loose.
3. Use a microfiber cloth or tissue paper to clean the residue.
4. Use a toothpick or thin brush, and wrap a damp paper towel around it.
5. Use the makeshift tool to wipe the inside of the USB port.

Make sure the controller is dry before you attempt resyncing it with the console.

PS4 Controller Repair Method 3: Trackpad Not Working

For a faulty or non-functioning trackpad, follow these steps:

1. Turn the controller off and back on again.
2. If Step 1 doesn't work, make a 50/50 solution of water and isopropyl rubbing alcohol.
3. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution.
4. Gently wipe down the trackpad with the microfiber cloth.

Getting a professional to repair the trackpad is not recommended since the fix rarely sticks. The pad is attached via the same ribbon that powers the USB port, so tweaking it can compromise your controller's charging. It's better to replace the controller instead.

PS4 Controller Repair Method 4: Inefficient Charging

You might think your controller is completely broken, but it might be suffering from a faulty battery. Batteries can degrade over time and require replacement. It's effortless to replace them, and you can do it at home by following these steps:

1. Use a tiny screwdriver to remove the screws on the back of the controller.
2. Use a pair of tweezers to pull apart the controller from the seams gently. Work from one end to the other to prevent any parts from breaking.
3. Separate the top part of the controller, working from the Share and Options buttons to the triggers.
4. Gently and carefully detach the motherboard from the ribbon.
5. Use the tweezers to detach the battery's cable from the motherboard carefully.
6. Replace the battery with a new one.
7. Reattach the battery cables to the motherboard.
8. Carefully reattach the ribbon back in place.
9. Connect the top and bottom halves of the controller and screw in the frame.

There you have it! You just replaced your controller's battery all on your own!

PS4 Controller Repair When Nothing Works

If none of the above fixes work, now might be the time to contact a professional or the PlayStation support team at Sony. Ask them about the extended and standard warranty if you have one. You'll only have to pay for shipping if the warranty is still valid.

However, if there's no warranty, expect to pay anywhere between $59 to $99 depending on the issue. A new DualShock 4 retails between $59.99 and $64.99, depending on the color. You can check out their online shop to choose a replacement, although you can find cheaper replacements from other stores.

While stores like GameStop cost less for PS4 controller repair, they can also render your warranty null and void, as Sony does not allow repairs from third parties.

However, if you're not concerned about that, GameStop has a dedicated repairing service called Controller Fix. They can fix any issues, from connectivity to battery problems, for less than $30!

Your PS4 controller goes through the most mechanical wear and tear, so it goes without saying that it can quickly stop working. You should only contact professional repair shops after you've exhausted all your options since they also rule out the same issues before attempting to replace the controller's components.

Additionally, you must check out different online stores before replacing your broken or worn-out controller, as many offer deals and discounts. Even GameStop offers deals on PlayStation accessories, and if you're a PowerUp Rewards member, expect to receive excellent discounts on controller repairs.