What to Do If Your PS5 Controller Suddenly Stops Working?

If your PS5 controller suddenly stops responding, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t always mean it’s broken. This guide helps you figure out what went wrong and how to fix it fast.

If your PS5 controller stops working, start with simple checks like recharging, reconnecting, or updating firmware. These fixes often solve most issues without the need for repairs.

Before you toss your controller aside or spend money on a replacement, try these steps. From battery problems to hardware issues, I’ve gone through all the common scenarios so you don’t have to.

Check the Battery?

Sometimes, it’s just the battery—and that’s the easiest fix. If your controller isn’t responding at all, it might just be out of juice.

Check the battery level by holding the PS button. If it’s low, charge the controller for at least 30 minutes using a USB-C cable connected to your PS5.

Dive Deeper: Signs of Battery Issues and How to Solve Them

Battery issues are more common than people realize. Your controller might seem “dead,” but really, it’s just not charged or isn’t charging properly.

Signs to look out for:

• No response when pressing the PS button
• Battery icon flashing when connected via USB
• Controller only working while plugged in

Simple solutions:

Sometimes, third-party charging docks can also be unreliable. I always recommend using the official PS5 charging dock or the cable that came with your console. It ensures stable power and avoids compatibility issues.

Check the Connection?

Bluetooth connections can get messed up without warning. It could be range, interference, or a simple system glitch.

Reconnect by restarting both your PS5 and controller. If wireless fails, try a USB-C cable to test wired connection stability.

Dive Deeper: Bluetooth Problems and Wired Connection Fixes

Wireless technology is great—until it isn’t. Your PS5 controller uses Bluetooth to talk to the console, and even the smallest disruption can cause it to stop working.

Possible causes:

• Too far from the console
• Other wireless devices interfering
• A bug in the PS5’s Bluetooth settings

Troubleshooting steps:

1. Restart everything: Turn off the PS5. Hold the PS button on the controller for 10 seconds. Reboot both devices.
2. Test with a cable: Use the USB-C cable to plug the controller directly into the console.
3. Remove interference: Unplug nearby Bluetooth devices like speakers or headsets.
4. Forget and pair again: Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories and remove the controller. Then pair it again from scratch.

If the controller works when plugged in but not wirelessly, it’s likely a Bluetooth problem—not a hardware failure. A firmware update (see next section) can sometimes resolve this too.

Update the Controller Firmware?

Sony occasionally releases updates to improve controller stability. If yours stops working, it might need a quick firmware refresh.

Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers and check for firmware updates with your controller connected via USB.

Dive Deeper: Why Firmware Updates Matter

Firmware is the software running inside your controller. Like any software, it can glitch or get outdated.

I’ve had cases where the controller refused to connect unless I updated it. Here’s what usually happens:

Common firmware-related symptoms:

• Controller lag
• Disconnections mid-game
• Button inputs not registering

How to update safely:

1. Plug the controller into your PS5 using a USB-C cable.
2. Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
3. If an update is available, follow the on-screen steps.
4. Do not disconnect until the update is complete.

It only takes a few minutes. I recommend checking for updates every few months, especially after major PS5 system updates. It’s a small step that often solves big problems.

Clean and Calibrate?

![Clean PS5 controller buttons and sticks]

Dust and grime might be stopping your buttons or sticks from working. It’s more common than you’d think.

Use a microfiber cloth or safe cleaning spray to gently clean the controller. Then recalibrate the analog sticks in your PS5’s settings.

Dive Deeper: When Dirt Disrupts Performance

When my controller started drifting on its own, I thought it was broken. Turned out it just needed cleaning.

Tools you’ll need:

• A dry microfiber cloth
• Canned air or a soft brush
• Isopropyl alcohol (90%+), if necessary

Cleaning tips:

• Wipe around all buttons and analog sticks.
• Use air to blow out debris from the stick bases.
• Lightly dampen a cloth with alcohol for tougher grime.

How to recalibrate:

1. Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
2. Select Controller Calibration.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Calibration fixes stick drift that’s not hardware-related. It resets the controller’s idea of “neutral” position. If cleaning and calibration don’t help, the problem might be deeper—like in the sensors themselves.

Inspect for Hardware Issues?

If nothing else works, the controller might have a hardware fault inside—like a loose wire or broken vibration motor.

These repairs require opening the controller, which is risky. Only attempt this if you're experienced, or contact a repair service.

Dive Deeper: Spotting Real Damage

Internal issues can be hard to spot unless you open the controller. Most users won’t need to go this far, but in rare cases, it’s necessary.

Common hardware failures:

• Loose ribbon cables
• Dead vibration motors
• Broken solder joints

Signs of internal problems:

• No feedback during vibration sequences
• Sticks or triggers feel physically loose
• No input response even after charging and reset

Unless you're confident with small electronics, I recommend taking it to a professional repair service. Opening the controller may also void the warranty, so always check the warranty status first (see next section).

Contact Support?

When DIY options fail, support is your next stop. Sony offers warranty coverage, and there are third-party repair shops as well.

If under warranty, contact Sony for repair or replacement. If not, get quotes from trusted repair services before moving forward.

Dive Deeper: How to Get Help Without Wasting Time

Navigating tech support can be a hassle, but knowing the right steps helps. I’ve been through it and here’s what works best.

If you’re under warranty:

• Check purchase date (usually 1-year warranty from Sony)
• Go to PlayStation Support
• Choose your region and submit a repair request

If you’re out of warranty:

• Contact local electronics repair services that handle PlayStation gear
• Ask for a quote and warranty on their repair work
• Compare repair cost vs. price of a new controller

Things to avoid:

• Opening the controller before checking warranty
• Unverified repair shops with no track record

With the right support, you could have your controller back in action without spending more than necessary.

Conclusion

Most PS5 controller issues have simple fixes—like charging, resetting, or updating. If all else fails, professional repair is the next best step.