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Why is my PS4 controller not working?

Press X for a fix.

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Any true gamer will know the frustration of a PS4 controller not turning on or syncing up with your PS4. You’ve set aside some time, you’ve got your fave game ready to go and then…. nothing. Your PS4 controller’s not working. But don’t despair.

Before you rush off to order a new one, let’s see what we can do about it.

In this handy guide, we’ll share some PS4 controller tips and help. Follow the steps and you’ll find out how to fix your PS4 controller. You’ll be back delivering justice to your pixelated enemies in no time.

Let’s go.

PS4 controller won't charge

If your PS4 controller isn’t holding a charge, your gaming session is doomed. There could be any number of reasons. It could be the charging wire, the USB ports on your PS4 controller or on the PS4 itself. Follow these steps and we’ll see if we can’t find a PS4 controller not charging fix.

How to fix PS4 controller that’s not charging

Try a PS4 controller reset

On the back of the controller, you’ll find a reset button under the L2 button. Press in the button then connect it back to your PS4 with the cable to resync.

Try charging your PS4 controller upside down

As strange as this may seem, this has been successful for some. If this works for you, it should only be used as a temporary fix.

Check the charging cable

Make sure that the cable is properly inserted into both USB slots. Also, try another PS4 charging cable to see if that sorts out the problem.

Check the charging port

The charging port, at the top of your PS4 controller, can become blocked up with dust or grit and so interrupt the flow of power to your controller. Try cleaning it out – compressed air works best.

If there’s something wrong with the charging port in your PS4 controller, you can take it to a registered professional to get a repair or replacement or you might just have to get a replacement controller. We don’t recommend trying the fix yourself.****

Try charging your PS4 controller on another device

The great things about the USB connection is you can charge the controller elsewhere. Some people have had success plugging it into a laptop port. If this works, it might be the USB ports on your PS4 that are the problem.

PS4 controller won’t pair

So, maybe your PS4 controller is charged up and ready to go, but it’s not pairing with your PS4. Sounds like you have a PS4 controller connection issue. But don’t panic! We’ll show you how to link your PS4 controller back to your PS4 console and you’ll be gaming away in no time.

How to pair a PS4 controller

Plug your PS4 controller in with a USB cable

If you’re not already wired up, try that first. Once you’re all hooked up, press and hold the Playstation button on the centre of your controller. This will make your controller resync.

Turn off your PS4

Yes, it’s the old on and off. But don’t mock it until you’ve tried it. Resetting works. First, turn off your PS4, then plug in your PS4 controller. Finally press and hold the Playstation button. This will mean that the controller will resync when the console starts up.

Check the Bluetooth

Your PS4 controller pairs with your console via a standard Bluetooth connection. So if you’re using your controller with other devices (such as a desktop computer or tablet) make sure to disconnect it and only have it connected to your console.

If none of these things work, you might have to bite the bullet and get a replacement PS4 controller. Fortunately, you’ll find a new PS4 controller you can love.

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Play on!