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according to IGN, you can call (800) 345-7669 to initiate the process, but you can also submit a repair request from Sony’s website. Once the controller is received, it takes between seven to 10 business days to work on it, so it could be a while before you see it again.
Can you fix controller drift permanently?
Yes, the 1-year PlayStation 5 warranty covers manufacturing defects, including controller drift.
- Consider warranty exclusions (e.g., external damage).
- Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent drift.
Is stick drift a hardware issue?
If there are two words that strike fear into the heart of every gamer, they are “stick drift.” This dreaded hardware failure on analog sticks has been the bane of many a controller, most notably Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons, and it’s a rare but confirmed issue for Steam Deck as well.
Is PS5 covered for drift?
Unpairing the controller from your console’s Bluetooth® devices will cause the controller to forget it and then recognize it when resynchronized. This can sometimes fix controller drift.
Will Sony fix stick drift for free?
DualSense buyers experiencing stick drift can take advantage of the PS5 warranty.
This means that repairs or replacements will be free of charge within the established warranty period.
Sony May Have Quietly Fixed DualSense’s Stick Drift on PS5
To address the DualSense stick drift issue, it is recommended to contact Sony (PlayStation) support.
If a defect causing drift is found:
- Contact Sony support with proof of the issue.
- The controller will likely be replaced free of charge (if under warranty).
Additional helpful information:
* Some users have reported improved joystick performance after a controller software update.
* If a replacement or update doesn’t resolve the issue, consider calibrating the joystick through the PS5 settings menu.
* Sony has acknowledged the stick drift issue and is working on addressing it in future updates.
Can I get a refund if my controller has drift?
Upon discovering controller drift, you should:
- Timely return the device for a replacement or refund.
- Request a replacement through official channels, as the defect may be covered by warranty.
Why won’t my controller drift go away?
Removing controller drift with compressed air
Apply purified compressed air to blow out particles causing controller drift. Keep the can horizontal while spraying, as tilting it can cause moisture to enter the controller, causing further damage.
Helpful and interesting information:
- If you don’t have purified compressed air, use cotton swabs or a brush for cleaning.
- Quickly press buttons and move joysticks while cleaning to dislodge particles.
- Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher) can also be used to clean controller contacts. However, do not use too much alcohol, as it can damage electronics.
- Regular cleaning of your controller can help prevent future drift.
Why is controller drift so common now?
Controller drift is a prevalent issue in the electronics industry caused by premature wear and tear of components.
The following factors contribute to increased controller drift:
- Natural Wear and Tear: Controller components, such as potentiometers, degrade over time, leading to inaccurate input.
- Reduced Technology Lifespan: Rapid technological advancements in recent years have shortened the lifespan of electronic devices, accelerating the need for replacement and repurchase.
- Increased Demand: High demand for electronics has further exacerbated the issue, with consumers purchasing multiple devices that are potentially susceptible to controller drift.
It is important to consider the following measures to minimize controller drift:
- Utilize High-Quality Components: Opting for reliable and wear-resistant components will ensure greater longevity.
- Regular Calibration: Consistent calibration of the controller compensates for wear and maintains accuracy.
- Protection from External Elements: Shielding the controller from dust, moisture, and impact will prolong its lifespan.
By understanding the causes and taking appropriate measures, both companies and consumers can reduce the likelihood of controller drift occurrences, ensuring a seamless and accurate experience with electronic devices.
Does stick drift get worse over time?
Yes, even the most robust controllers are expected to decline in functionality over time, but how long the joysticks last is largely dependent on the nature of the games being played.
Factors contributing to analog stick wear and tear:
- Individual Gaming Habits: Aggressive players who frequently utilize the full range of stick motion put more wear and tear on their sticks.
- Game Genre: Games requiring intensive analog stick usage (e.g., first-person shooters) lead to quicker wear.
- Controller Design: Not all controllers are created equal, and some designs are more prone to stick wear.
- Tips for extending analog stick life:
- Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can get lodged in the stick mechanism, leading to performance degradation.
- Proper Gaming Technique: Avoid excessive use of the full stick range.
- Use Accessories: Stick covers and grips can protect them from damage.
Is stick drift normal wear and tear?
Grip drift may have various causes related to damage (e.g., drops) or natural wear and tear.
Natural wear and tear of the grip is caused by:
- Use of aggressive cleaning agents;
- Friction between the grip and the sensor;
- Aging and brittleness of grip materials.
In most cases, grip drift is caused by dirt accumulation in the sensor, due to:
- Dust and dirt;
- Food and liquid residue;
- Wear of the grip surface.
To prevent grip drift, it is necessary to:
- Use only recommended cleaning agents;
- Regularly clean the sensor from dirt;
- Store the joystick in a protective case;
- Avoid drops and other damage whenever possible.
Sony May Have Quietly Fixed DualSense’s Stick Drift on PS5
Where can I send my controller to get stick drift fixed?
How to ship your controller. Identify. We fix Xbox One, Xbox, Xbox Elite, PS4, PS5 and competitor controllers. (See brands below) Purchase Stick Drift Fix. Purchase Stick Drift Fix below. Ship it! Ship your controller to 8521 East Coldwater, Davison Michigan 48423. (Please provide order number note)
How do I fix PS5 controller drift permanently?
Fixing DualSense PS5 Controller Drift:
- Controller Reset: Unpair and re-pair the controller, resetting it to factory defaults.
- Adjust Dead Zone Threshold: Reduce joystick sensitivity to minimize unintended movements.
- Replace Joysticks: For severe drift, consider replacing damaged analog sticks.
Does Sony’s warranty cover stick drift?
The PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is covered by warranty for one year from the date of purchase of the controller or the PS5 it came bundled with. As long as it is covered by warranty, you can contact Sony and request service for your controller.
How long do PS5 controllers last?
It’s been over a year since we first heard about the DualSense’s alleged 417-hour lifespan and read a report that suggested the cause of stick drift was the pad. At the time, an iFixit report estimated the DualSense would start to degrade after about seven months for the average gamer.
Does GameStop fix stick drift for free?
Yes, Nintendo offers free controller drift fixes for Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons.
Controller drift is a problem where a controller’s analog sticks register input even when not being touched, leading to involuntary in-game movements. Nintendo’s policy provides free drift fixes for all Joy-Con controllers, regardless of purchase date or region. This process may take time, but Nintendo will cover the costs of repair and shipping. To take advantage of Nintendo’s policy: * Contact Nintendo’s service department via phone or chat. * Provide detailed information about the drift issue. * Ship your Joy-Con controller to the provided address. Additional information: * The drift issue stems from the design of the Joy-Con analog sticks, which use delicate springs. * Nintendo has implemented improved springs in later batches of Joy-Cons, but the issue can still occur with those controllers. * Players may attempt to fix drift themselves using electronics cleaning solutions and repair kits. However, this is not recommended by Nintendo and may void any warranty.
Does GameStop fix controller joystick drift?
Fixing Controller Joystick “Drift” at GameStop
If your console or controller needs repair, you can visit any GameStop store.
What is joystick “drift”?
Joystick “drift” is a problem where a character in a game moves or looks in a certain direction even when the player is not touching the joystick.
How does GameStop fix joystick “drift”?
At GameStop, joystick drift issues can be resolved by our trained staff. We will diagnose your controller to determine the cause of the drift.
Typically, the following issues cause drift:
- Wear or damage to the analog joysticks
- Dirt or dust inside the controller
Our specialists use specialized equipment to resolve the problem and ensure your controller functions smoothly.
Repair Services
In addition to fixing joystick drift, we offer a wide range of console and controller repair services at GameStop, including:
- Button and trigger replacements
- Power and port repairs
- Data recovery
For more information or to schedule a repair, please visit your nearest GameStop location.
Can I send my PS5 controller to Sony for repair?
In the event of issues with your PS5 controller that fall under warranty, you are eligible for free repair from Sony.
However, please note that in some cases, you may be responsible for the shipping costs of your controller to the repair facility. Shipping costs can vary depending on your location.
For more detailed information about the PS5 controller repair process, it is recommended to contact Sony customer support. They will be able to provide further instructions and clarify the repair timelines and conditions.
Does Geek Squad fix stick drift?
For stick drift on a PS4 controller, it is recommended to utilize Geek Squad Protection.
This service will provide an expert solution for the issue:
- Protection against stick drift
- Complete repair of the malfunction
Does Sony do free repairs?
Free Repairs from Sony
A lengthy 90-day warranty after repair ensures that identical issues will be repaired for free for the remainder of the original warranty.
What are the first signs of stick drift?
Early signs of Xbox One controller drift:
- Unintended character or camera movement during gameplay
- Joysticks activating on their own, even without physical input
- Sometimes, only one joystick drifts, while other times both do
What is the lifespan of a PS5 controller?
The lifespan of a DualSense PS5 controller varies based on usage intensity and care.
Expert Tip: To extend its lifespan, adhere to operating guidelines, avoid excessive pressing, and clean the controller frequently.


