Home Gaming PlayStation How to Fix Stick Drift PS5: Complete Guide

How to Fix Stick Drift PS5: Complete Guide

Are you enjoying your game on the PlayStation 5 only to find that your controller is moving your character or their vehicle in the wrong direction? This rather irritating matter is called ‘stick drift’ and often transforms your exciting gaming into a battle with the controller.

But don’t worry, gamers! We’re here to help. In this article guide on how to fix stick drift on PS5, you’ll find easy-to-understand solutions to troubleshoot and resolve this annoying problem. 

Whether you’re dealing with a PS5 controller that keeps moving left, experiencing DualSense stick drift, or wondering how to fix controller drift on PS5 without opening it, we’ve got you covered. Your PS5 controller issues will be solved. No need to worry about complex fixes. 

Read on for detailed instructions and get back to enjoying your games uninterrupted.

How to Fix Stick Drift PS5
How to Fix Stick Drift PS5: Complete Guide 4

Understanding PlayStation 5 Controller Drift

The PS5 DualSense® controller is one of the most complex devices, and it comes with analog sticks to ensure that the gamer has precise control. However, when its character or vehicle begins to move on its own without your command, this problem is known as stick drift.

For gamers facing this issue, learning how to fix PS5 controller drift becomes a top priority. Stick drift can arise from several causes, including:

  • Physical degradation of controller components
  • Wear and tear from extensive use
  • Build-up of debris around the analog sticks
  • Outdated system software
  • Hardware issues within the controller

Understanding these causes is crucial in addressing the PS5 joystick drift problem effectively.

Common Causes of PS5 Stick Drift

Before we dive into solutions, let’s explore why your PS5 controller keeps moving left or in other directions:

  1. Dust and Debris: Accumulation of dirt, dust, or food particles around the analog sticks can interfere with their sensors.
  2. Wear and Tear: Regular use can lead to the degradation of internal components over time.
  3. Manufacturing Defects: In some cases, stick drift might be due to a manufacturing issue.
  4. Software Glitches: Outdated system software or controller firmware can sometimes cause drift problems.
  5. Physical Damage: Dropping the controller or applying excessive force during gameplay can damage internal components.

Understanding these causes will help you prevent future occurrences of PS5 controller drift and choose the most appropriate fix for your situation.

Steps to Fix PS5 Controller Drift

Given below is the step-by-step guide on how to fix stick drift PS5:

1. Adjust Input Threshold

Reducing the input threshold inside the options of the game that you are playing helps combat the issue of joystick drift. Follow these steps:

  1. Go to the setting option of the game you want to play.
  2. Seek for setting tabs that are labeled as “Input Threshold” or “Deadzone”.
  3. Thus, lowering the threshold should be attempted to analyze whether it helps to reduce the drift.

Low Input Threshold – Guidelines for fixing stick drift PS5, might help to some degree if your drift is not very severe.

2. Reset Your PS5 DualSense Controller

The console and the controller may require some time to get back to adjusting to each other after perfor ming the reset as the latter can also resolve drift problems. Here’s how:

  1. Turn off your PlayStation 5 console.
  2. Locate the reset button on the back of the controller (it’s a small hole near the L2 button).
  3. Use a paperclip or similar tool to press and hold the reset button for 5 seconds.
  4. Turn the console back on and re-pair the controller.

This method can help resolve software-related drift issues and is a good first step in troubleshooting.

3. Clean the Analog Stick

In the long run, grime builds up around the analog sticks, thereby making the stick drift. Cleaning it can improve functionality:

  1. To clean the analog stick, gently use a dust-free antistatic cloth, cotton swab or compressed air to clear it.
  2. Do not apply liquids or alcohol on the controller as they are likely to harm it.

By keeping the analog stick clean, you can often solve minor drift issues. How to fix stick drift PS5 through regular maintenance is simple and effective.

Caution: Never apply liquids directly to the controller, as this can cause damage.

4. Update System Software and Controller Firmware

The lack of software updates is another factor that has led to what is known as controller drift. Ensuring that both your controller and console software are up-to-date can help:

  1. Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings
  2. Follow the prompts to update your system software
  3. Connect your controller via USB and update its firmware if prompted
  4. Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Stick Drift
Update the PS5 Console

Thus, updating the software is one of the preventive measures that can be taken when it comes to stick drift PS5.

5. Reset Bluetooth Connection

Sometimes, resetting the Bluetooth connection between the controller and console can resolve drift issues:

  1. Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
  2. Select the controller giving you trouble and choose “Forget.”
  3. Restart your PS5.
  4. Reconnect your controller by pressing the PS button and Share button simultaneously until the light bar blinks.
Bluetooth Accessories – Forget the controller

It can assist in rectifying a stable connection, covering the PS5 stick drift problems that are centered to the problems with connectivity.

In general, avoiding future Stick Drift issues is easier as the problem has been clearly identified in this paper and can therefore be prevented.

6. Calibrate Your Controller

You can calibrate your controller easily, just follow these steps to get started.

  1. Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Calibrate Controllers
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to recalibrate your analog sticks

Note: It’s not always available for all PS5 controllers. So you have to check whether this option is available to you or not.

Preventing Future Stick Drift Issues

1. Store Your Controller Properly

Proper storage can significantly reduce wear and tear on your controller:

  1. It is recommended that you should store your controller in a dry and cool area.
  2. It is recommended not to put something heavy on the controller.
  3. It is preferably to keep it in a carrying case when not in use to avoid contaminants such as dust from getting to it.

2. Handle with Care

Handling your controller with care can prevent physical damage:

  1. It is rather important not to throw or drop the controller.
  2. As you play the game, ensure that you do so lightly. Using a lot of force puts a lot of stress on the analog sticks.
  3. This is a very important step. You do not want food and drinks causing a mess on your gaming zone.

3. Regular Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your controller can help maintain its performance:

  1. Carefully apply electronic contact cleaner around the base of the affected stick
  2. Rotate the stick to distribute the cleaner
  3. Allow the controller to dry completely before use
  4. Preventing Future PS5 Joystick Drift

To avoid future stick drift issues:

  • Store your controller in a clean, dust-free environment
  • Avoid eating or drinking while gaming to prevent spills
  • Handle your controller gently, avoiding drops or impacts
  • Regularly clean your controller using the methods described above

Use these preventive measures and you will likely not have to search for how to fix stick drift PS5, shortly.

When to Seek PlayStation Support

If you’ve tried all these methods and still can’t fix stick drift on your PS5 controller, it’s time to contact PlayStation Support. They can provide further assistance or arrange for a repair/replacement if your controller is under warranty.

Common Causes and Fixes for Stick Drift

CauseFix
Physical DamageProfessional repair or replacement
Wear and TearRegular maintenance and replacement if necessary
Debris AccumulationCleaning the analog stick regularly
Outdated SoftwareKeeping the controller and console software up-to-date

Final Tips

  1. Regular Maintenance: Maintain hygiene on your controller by washing hands or using sanitisers and that now and then check your controller’s maintenance.
  2. Software Updates: Make sure both your controller and the console have the most up to date software installed.
  3. Handle with Care: To prevent physical damage to your controller you should not drop it and should be handled gently.

With the aid of these tips and the guidelines pointed out in this tutorial on how to eliminate stick drift on the PS5 console, gamers will be able to play to their heart’s content.

FAQs

What are the factors behind the PS5 stick drift?

There are many reasons as to why the PS5 controller drifts, these include; mechanical damage, general wear, build up of dirt, and outdated firmware.

Can I fix PS5 controller drift myself?

Yes, it is possible to diagnose PS5 controller stick drift and how it can be resolved through measures like input adjustment, PS5 controller reinitialization, analog stick cleaning, software update, and Bluetooth connectivity reset.

What should I do if my PS5 controller has stick drift issue and how do I reset it?

To do this, power off your PS5 console, locate the reset hole at the back of the controller and use a sheet of paper to press the reset button for approximately 5 seconds, power on your console and pair the controller again.

Is it possible to remove the stick drift issue in my PS5 controller by spraying contact cleaner?

Yes, spraying contact cleaner into the tablet’s base and moving the analog stick in different directions can eliminate the issue of dirt accumulation as well as restore its functionality.

How do I prevent stick drift on PS5?

Regular cleaning, proper storage, gentle handling, and keeping your software updated can help prevent stick drift.

Why does my PS5 controller keep moving left?

This could be due to debris around the left analog stick, a hardware issue, or a software glitch. Try the cleaning and resetting methods described above.

How long does a PS5 controller last before stick drift?

The lifespan varies, but with proper care, a PS5 controller should last several years before experiencing issues like stick drift.

Conclusion

Dealing with PS5 controller drift can be frustrating, but armed with this guide on how to fix stick drift on PS5, you now have multiple solutions at your disposal. From adjusting in-game settings and cleaning your controller to updating software and performing resets, these methods can help resolve most stick drift issues.

Remember, prevention is key. Regular maintenance, careful handling, and proper storage of your DualSense controllercan go a long way in preventing future drift problems. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to PlayStation Support or consider professional repair services.

We hope this guide helps you get back to enjoying your favorite PS5 games without the annoyance of stick drift. Happy gaming!

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