How To Fix Xbox Controller Drift (This Fix Worked For Most) (2024)

Xbox controllers are your trusted companions for Xbox Series S, gaming adventures. However, as time passes, you may experience an annoyance known as “controller drift.”

Because of this issue, you will usually notice undesirable movement when playing games.

In this guide you will get the solution to the controller drifting problem about Xbox One S/X and Series S/X Controller.

Understanding Xbox Controller Drift

When an Xbox One controller gets used to drift, you will usually notice undesirable movement when playing games.

Both Xbox One and Xbox Series S/X controllers are susceptible to controller drift. It usually occurs over time as a result of normal wear and tear, dust collection, or small electronic failures.

The thumbstick section is the major component of an Xbox controller that wears out and causes drifting issues.

Electronic faults, such as failure sensors or wire joint connections, may be the cause of some drifting issues.

What Causes Controllers Drift On Xbox?

Worn-out Thumbstick Pad: The thumbstick modules themselves can wear down over time, leading them to no longer correctly return to their neutral position.

Bad Thumbstick Unit: A boxy sensor component is attached to the controller circuit board of each thumbstick. Internal failure of this component is possible; the only solution is to replace it with a new one.

Fix Xbox Controller Drift

Xbox controller drift is a typical problem in which the thumbsticks on the controller indicate movement even when they aren’t touched. Here’s how to resolving Xbox controller drift step by step:

Software Fixes

The problem could be a software fault, and if you are attempting to resolve it with hardware, you are in the wrong place. Don’t worry, I have some software patches that will assist you in resolving the issue.

By Adjusting Controller Deadzone

Follow these methods to resolve Xbox controller drift difficulties by changing the deadzone:

Switch on the Xbox console.
Navigate to the Settings menu.
Choose Devices & Accessories.
Choose the Xbox controller.
Deadzone can be found under Controller Options.
Adjust the Xbox controller’s deadzone slider.

Update Controller

Minor difficulties can be resolved by updating the firmware on your controller to the most recent version. Here are the steps to updating the firmware on your controller:

Note: Write these sentences correctly saying update controller firmware to latest version fix minor issues for controllers.

Switch on the Xbox console.
Select the Xbox button.
Choose Profile & System.
Select Settings and then select the Devices & Connections > Accessories from the drop-down menu.
Choose the Xbox controller.
Select the three dots on the following screen to check the firmware version.
If an update is available, pick the Firmware version and proceed as directed.

Reset Xbox Controller

Resetting the controller can help resolve problems, especially if they occur unexpectedly or are caused by software errors. The following are the steps for resetting an Xbox Wireless Controller:

Check that the Xbox controller to be reset is connected to your Xbox One or Series X|S and that you are on the Home screen.
Select the Xbox button (the one with the Xbox logo) in the centre of your controller.
Hold down the Xbox button for around 5-10 seconds.
When the Xbox button’s light goes out (it will turn off), release it.
Wait a few moments.
To connect your controller to your Xbox, press the Xbox button one more.

It’s important to remember that just taking out the controller batteries may sometimes reset controllers and likely fix drifting difficulties.

Here’s how to go about it:

Turn Off the controller.
Unplug the power outlet or strip from the controller.
Go to the back side of your controller and remove the cover where the batteries are present.
Remove the batteries and wait for a few minutes and insert batteries again.

Replug the outlet and turn on the controller for testing.

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Hardware Fixes

Solving Xbox controller drift caused by hardware difficulties frequently means dealing with issues with the thumbsticks. Here’s a step-by-step instruction for repairing or replacing a thumbstick to correct controller drift:

Fix/Replace Thumbstick

You will need some of these items and materials:

Controller which is having the issue.
Joystick Module Thumbstick, it is available online.
Screwdriver(you can use T8 or T9 Torx screwdriver).
Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher concentration).
Cotton buds or you can take soft cloth.

Now To Clean The Controller Follow The Steps

Pore the Isopropyl alcohol in the cotton buds or in soft cloth.
Slightly bend the thumbstick back and gently wipe the rounded surface with alcohol.
Rotate the thumbstick and clean the whole surface of the thumbstick.
Test the thumbstick again.

If the issue is constant then, you will need to disassemble the parts of the controller.

Taking apart an Xbox One controller is a very simple task, but it does necessitate some care and the proper tools.

Material which you will need to disassemble the controller.

Torx screwdriver (You can use T8 or T9 size)
A plastic pry tool
A tidy workplace

Here’s How To Disassemble An Xbox One Controller Step By Step:

Separate the right or left grip cover with a prying tool.
Once the controller is separated little then use your hand to separate them properly.
Do the same for another side of the controller.
If your controller is equipped with batteries, remove them to avoid any electrical complications during disassembly.

Remove the screw.
Begin with the secret screw within the battery compartment. To avoid stripping the screw, use a T-8 safety Torx bit and be sure to firmly seat it and apply even pressure.
Take off the screws out of one of the right grips, each grips having 2 screws remove both of them.
Repeat the above step for left grips.
After removing this you will be able to see the circuit of the controller.
Now you have access to triggers, and some additional screws, leave them as it is.
Remove the assembly from the front case and flip it around to gain access to the majority of the other components.
Now clan the buttons and analog sticks and reassemble the parts.

Note: The sticker inside the battery compartment will be intact if your controller has never been disassembled. To access the hidden screw, use your Torx bit to push through the sticker or cut it away.

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Repair Thumbstick Springs

Repairing thumbstick springs in a controller can be difficult, and it’s generally more practical to replace the complete thumbstick module if the spring fails.

You will need the following items to complete this repair:

T-8 prying tool.
Security Tweezers.
Torx Analog stick springs.

Steps To Repair The Springs

Disassemble the controller with a screwdriver, read the above steps to properly disassemble the parts.
Take off those blue coverings of plastic on the bottom and right side of the thumbstick component with care.
The component having blue colour, slightly remove it and from there remove the spring.
Look for any damage in springs, if the spring is damaged from anywhere replace it with a new one or you can use spring from an old controller.
After replacing the spring again, join the blue plastic cover.
Reassemble the controller’s part and test the controller.

Repair Analog Stick

Repairing an analog stick on a gamepad may entail addressing issues such as stick drift, inactivity, or physical damage. A general guide to repairing an analog stick on a controller may be found here:

You will need the following items to attempt this fix:

T-8 or T-9 size safety Torx
prying tool
T-7 Torx
Desoldering Tool
Soldering iron
Replacement analog stick soldering assembly

Follow the steps to repair the analog stick.

Make sure your workspace is clean and well-ventilated. Remove any distractions and place a soft surface beneath the controller to protect its surface.
Disassemble the part, Steps are listed above.
Use the Desoldering tool to remove the analog stick.
If the analog stick is dirty then clean the stick with soft cloth or isopropyl alcohol to clean the contact pads and the surrounding area. .
If the stick is damaged or having some other issue then in this case you have to replace the stick with a new one.
Insert the new analog and reassemble the parts.

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How To Prevent Stick Drift?

Preventing stick drift in gaming controllers can help them last longer and provide a better gaming experience.

Stick drift is frequently caused by wear and tear on analog stick components or the collection of dirt, although it is preventable:

Use the controller with caution
Clean your controller on a regular basis
Before you begin gaming, wash your hands
Properly store your controller
Use firmware updates for controllers
Calibrate your controller as follows
Avoid using the joystick aggressively
Invest in high-quality controllers
Check for warranty coverage on a regular basis.

FAQs

Does Xbox Fix Controller Drift For Free?

Unless it was inside the warranty period, Xbox did not usually remedy controller drift for free. If the item is out of warranty, you may have to pay for repairs. However, policies sometimes change, so check Xbox support for the most up-to-date information.

How Do You Test A Stick Drift?

Play a game and watch to see whether your character or camera moves without touching the thumbstick. Visually assess for damage and, if available, use system calibration tools or diagnostic software.

How Do I Calibrate My Xbox One Controller Drift?

Connect an Xbox One controller to your Xbox or PC, go to settings, pick “Devices,” then “Controller,” and then “Calibrate.” To modify thumbstick sensitivity and resolve drift difficulties, follow the on-screen recommendations.

Conclusion

Xbox controller drift is an annoying problem that is typically fixable. Understanding the causes, software and hardware solutions, and preventative actions can assist you in maintaining the operation of your controller.

Addressing stick drift, whether by software changes, cleaning, or more complicated hardware fixes, can extend the life of your controller and improve your gaming experience.

When dealing with persistent troubles, always investigate warranty coverage and official support options.

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