How to Fix PS4 Controller Drift Without Opening?

If your game character moves independently or menus scroll without input, you could have the problem of “controller drift.” This common issue occurs when the analog sticks on your PS4 controller start registering movement without being touched. Although you can open the controller, it negates warranties, can cause internal components to get ruined, and is not always convenient. Luckily, there are some methods that you can use to fix PS4 controller drift without opening.

To reduce PS4 controller drift, clean the analog sticks externally using compressed air or a soft brush. Then, calibrate the controller by pressing the reset button. If available, adjust in-game dead zone settings. Finally, ensure your firmware is updated, and consider professional repairs from Sony or trusted third-party services.

6 Easy Methods to Fix PS4 Controller Drift Without Opening

PS4 controller drift irritates and affects gaming performance and the joy of playing. However, many techniques can fix this problem, and no opening is required for the controller to open, from simple resets to all cleaning techniques.

Method 1: Clean the Analog Stick Externally

Dust or dirt accumulated at the bottom of the analog stick is usually one of the first places the movement sensors interfere. Clean your analog stick efficiently using the controller drift troubleshooting steps below without opening your controller.

• Power Off the Controller: Press and hold the PS button until the controller’s light shuts off. This avoids manipulation by other players since the lights are sensitive to any touch, thus avoiding maloperation.
• Use a Can of Compressed Air: Spray the area around the base of any analog stick with mild force. This compressed air can help to flush out dirt or debris in the signal path.
• Rotate the Stick: Swing the analog stick 360 degrees while fanning the air around it. This will ensure that anyone you need to reach is covered.
• Soft Brush Option:  If you cannot use compressed air, use a soft brush to wipe around the stick near the base.

This method might solve what appears to be drift caused by minor dirt accumulation.

Method 2: Recalibrate the Controller

Calibration issues can sometimes cause drift, and resetting your controller may resolve the problem. Here’s how to recalibrate your PS4 controller. Take these troubleshooting steps:

• Turn Off Your PS4 Console: Power off your PS4 console to ensure it won’t interfere with calibration.
• Locate the Reset Button: Find the small reset button on the back of your controller near the L2 button.
• Press the Reset Button: Using a pin or paperclip, press and hold the reset button for about 5 seconds.
• Reconnect the Controller: Turn on your PS4, then use a USB cable to reconnect your controller. This should reset and recalibrate your controller’s settings.

After resetting, test the controller to see if the drift issue has been resolved.

Method 3: Adjust Dead Zone Settings

Some games have a “Dead Zone” setting in their controller configuration. Adjusting this can help mitigate drift by ignoring slight, unintended movements. Here’s what you can do:

• Open the Game’s Settings: Launch a game with customizable controller settings.
• Find Controller or Analog Stick Settings: Look for a “Dead Zone” or similar setting.
• Increase the Dead Zone Value: Raise the Dead Zone until the drift stops. This tells the game to ignore small, unintended movements of the stick.

If this method doesn’t work, your controller requires professional console repair services.

Method 4: Update the Controller’s Firmware

If none of the physical solutions work, the issue may be software-related. Updating your PS4’s firmware can sometimes resolve issues with controller functionality. Update the firmware through these steps:

• Connect the Controller to the PS4: A USB cable ensures a stable connection.
• Update the PS4 System Software: Go to Settings > System Software Update on your PS4 to check for any available updates.
• Update the Controller Firmware: Confirm the update if prompted to update the controller firmware.

Firmware updates may include improvements or fixes that address controller drift.

Method 5: Reset the Controller

Resetting your PS4 controller can help eliminate any irregularities caused by software issues. Here’s how to reset it:

• Locate the Reset Button: At the back of the controller, there is a small hole near the L2 button.
• Press the Reset Button: Use a paperclip or a pin to press the reset button inside the hole for about five seconds.
• Reconnect the Controller: After resetting, your controller must be reconnected to the PS4. Do this by connecting it with a USB cable.

Resetting the controller often resolves minor issues, including drift.

Method 6: Consult Experts for Professional PS4 Repairs

If these steps still fail to solve the drifting, then it is mostly an internal hardware problem in your PS4 that is unresolvable by other means.

Contact Sony for Professional Repairs

You could contact Sony Service Centers. They have customer support, where you can receive a repair service or the best replacement alternative. Do it and keep your warranty, saving time and money.

Consider Third-Party Repair Services

Contact third-party repair services like Wireless Waves Repair if your PS4 controller has an expired warranty. These professionals specialize in effectively diagnosing and fixing issues without damaging your controller.

What Causes Ps4 Controller Drift?

PS4 controller drift can be caused by several factors, including:

• Wear and Tear: Continuous use leads to degradation of the analog stick components.
• Dust and Debris: Accumulation of dirt inside the controller can interfere with sensor functionality.
• Faulty Calibration: Sometimes, the software might misinterpret joystick movements due to calibration issues.
• Moisture Damage: Exposure to liquids can impair the internal circuitry.
• Manufacturing Defects: Some controllers may have inherent design flaws that lead to drift.

Can You Fix the Stick Drift Without Opening the Controller?

You can fix PS4 stick drift without opening the controller by following these methods:

• Reset the Controller: Use a small pin to press the reset button on the back of the controller.
• Clean the Joysticks: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris around the sticks.
• Adjust Dead Zone Settings: Modify the settings in-game to adjust the sensitivity.
• Firmware Update: Ensure your controller’s firmware is up-to-date for optimal performance.

How Can I Reduce Stick Drift?

To reduce stick drift on your PS4 controller, consider the following methods:

• Clean the Analog Sticks: Use compressed air or a soft cloth to remove dust and debris.
• Reset the Controller: Hold the reset button on the back to recalibrate.
• Adjust Dead Zones: In-game settings may allow you to modify dead zone sensitivity.
• Keep Firmware Updated: Ensure your controller’s software is current for optimal performance.
• Limit exposure to liquids and dirt: Keep your controller clean and dry.

Conclusion

Controller drift can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem without opening your PS5 or PS4 controller. You can fix this issue by cleaning the analog sticks on the outside with compressed air or a soft brush. Recalibrate the controller by using the reset button. Configure in-game dead zone settings, if available. Update your firmware and have a professional repair done by Sony or a reputable third-party service.