How to Fix Stick Drift PS5 Controllers: 10 Easy Solutions and Prevention Tips

Understanding Stick Drift on PS5 Controllers

Stick drift is a common issue that affects many gaming controllers, including those for the PlayStation 5 (PS5). When stick drift occurs, your character or cursor may move on its own, even if you’re not touching the joystick. This frustrating problem can significantly affect gameplay, particularly in precise actions or competitive scenarios.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to fix stick drift on PS5 controllers, from diagnosing the issue to practical repair solutions, along with tips to prevent stick drift from occurring again.

What Causes Stick Drift on PS5 Controllers?

To understand how to fix stick drift, it helps to know its common causes. Here are the primary reasons:

• Dust and Debris: Dust particles, grime, and debris often accumulate around the analog stick, causing unintended movements.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, the components inside the joystick wear out, particularly the potentiometers, which detect the movement of the sticks.
• Moisture and Sweat: Frequent contact with sweat or moisture can create corrosion or buildup, interfering with the stick’s sensors.
• Software Issues: Occasionally, stick drift can result from software or firmware issues that affect controller performance.

Step-by-Step Guide How to Fix Stick Drift PS5 Controller

Let’s break down several methods you can use to troubleshoot and fix stick drift on your PS5 controller. Each solution varies based on the severity and cause of the drift.

1. Clean the Analog Sticks

Tools Needed: Compressed air, cotton swabs, and isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher).

One of the easiest ways to fix minor stick drift issues is to clean around the analog sticks. Dust and grime buildup can interfere with the sensors.

Steps:

1. Power Off the Controller: Disconnect your PS5 controller and turn it off.
2. Apply Compressed Air: Hold the joystick to one side and spray compressed air around the base. Rotate the stick to reach all sides.
3. Use Isopropyl Alcohol: Dampen a cotton swab with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol. Gently clean around the base of the stick, ensuring no excess liquid enters the controller.
4. Test the Controller: Once dry, reconnect your controller and test it to see if the drift is resolved.

This method is effective for cleaning out dust and can resolve minor stick drift issues.

2. Recalibrate Your Controller

Sometimes, recalibrating your PS5 controller can resolve stick drift by resetting the controller’s sensors.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings on Your PS5: Open the PS5 dashboard and go to Settings.
2. Navigate to Accessories: Go to Accessories > Controller > Adjust DualSense Controller.
3. Follow Calibration Instructions: Follow the on-screen prompts to recalibrate the controller.

Recalibrating helps the PS5 recognize the current position of the sticks, potentially eliminating drift issues.

3. Reset the PS5 Controller

Resetting your controller can also fix software-related stick drift issues. This process restores the factory settings of your DualSense controller.

Steps:

1. Locate the Reset Button: On the back of your PS5 controller, find the small hole next to the “Sony” logo.
2. Press the Reset Button: Use a small pin or paperclip to press and hold the button for about five seconds.
3. Reconnect to the PS5: Once reset, reconnect your controller to the PS5 using a USB cable.

A factory reset can address minor firmware-related issues that contribute to stick drift.

4. Update the PS5 Firmware and Controller Software

Firmware updates often include patches for performance issues, including controller-related bugs. Ensure both the console and controller have the latest software.

Steps:

1. Update Console Firmware: Go to Settings > System > System Software Update and Settings. Update to the latest version if available.
2. Connect Controller via USB: Use the USB cable to connect the controller, ensuring it gets the latest update.

By keeping your firmware updated, you’re also minimizing future stick drift risk due to software conflicts.

5. Adjust Deadzone Settings in Games

Some games allow you to adjust the deadzone for your analog sticks. The deadzone is the area around the stick’s neutral position that doesn’t register input, which can help prevent minor drift issues from affecting gameplay.

Steps:

1. Access Game Settings: Go to the controller settings in your game’s options menu.
2. Adjust Deadzone: Increase the deadzone value slightly. This adjustment makes the stick less sensitive near the center, reducing the impact of minor drift.

While this won’t fix hardware-related drift, it can help with small issues and improve gameplay experience.

6. Replace the Analog Stick Module

If none of the above solutions work, the drift might result from a defective or worn-out analog stick module. Replacing this part requires advanced repair skills.

Tools Needed:

• Screwdriver set for electronics
• Replacement analog stick module (specific for PS5 DualSense)
• Tweezers and soldering iron (optional for advanced repair)

Steps:

1. Disassemble the Controller: Carefully remove the screws and open the controller casing.
2. Remove the Analog Stick Module: Using tweezers or a soldering iron (if necessary), carefully detach the old analog stick.
3. Install the New Module: Place the replacement analog stick module in position and secure it.
4. Reassemble the Controller: Reattach the casing and screws.

Replacing the analog stick module is an advanced fix and should be done carefully to avoid damaging the controller. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, consult a professional technician.

How to Prevent Stick Drift on PS5 Controllers

Preventing stick drift can save you from frustration and costly repairs. Here are some preventative measures:

1. Keep Your Controller Clean

Regular cleaning of your controller can prevent dust and grime from building up around the analog sticks. Wipe it down with a dry cloth after each gaming session and clean the analog stick area with compressed air monthly.

2. Avoid Excessive Pressure

Applying too much force on the analog sticks can strain the components, leading to faster wear. Handle the controller with a gentle grip, especially during intense gameplay moments.

3. Store the Controller Properly

When not in use, store your PS5 controller in a safe place where it’s unlikely to gather dust or dirt. A storage case can provide added protection.

4. Use Controller Grips or Covers

Investing in silicone grips or covers can reduce the amount of sweat and grime that comes into contact with the analog sticks, providing an additional layer of protection against stick drift.

FAQs About How To Fix Stick Drift on PS5 Controllers

Q1: Can stick drift be fixed permanently?

Stick drift caused by dirt or software issues can often be fixed with cleaning or recalibration. However, if the issue is due to wear on the analog stick module, you may need to replace the hardware for a permanent fix.

Q2: Does Sony cover stick drift under warranty?

Sony’s warranty typically covers manufacturing defects, which may include stick drift, depending on the specific case. Contact Sony support to determine if your controller is eligible for a free repair or replacement.

Q3: Is it safe to clean the PS5 controller with alcohol?

Yes, using isopropyl alcohol with 90% concentration or higher is safe, as it evaporates quickly and doesn’t damage electronics. Always apply it sparingly on a cotton swab and avoid excess moisture near the joystick’s base.

Q4: Why does stick drift keep coming back after cleaning?

Recurring stick drift may result from worn components within the analog stick module. Cleaning can temporarily alleviate symptoms, but hardware replacement may be necessary if the problem persists.

Q5: What is the best deadzone setting to prevent stick drift?

The ideal deadzone setting varies by game and user preference, but setting it to around 10-20% often reduces minor drift effects without sacrificing response time.

Final Thoughts

Stick drift on a PS5 controller can be frustrating, but by following the methods how to fix stick drift PS5 above, you can often resolve the issue on your own. Whether through regular cleaning, calibration, or even part replacement, understanding and addressing stick drift ensures you get the best gaming experience from your PlayStation 5.

For those struggling with persistent issues, don’t hesitate to consult a professional repair service or contact Sony support. With a bit of care and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your PS5 controller and enjoy smooth gameplay for years to come.