First Steps
- Power Cycle the Controller: Turn off the controller by holding the PlayStation button, then turn it back on. Sometimes, a simple power cycle can resolve minor issues.
- Make sure the controller is charged. If the controller is not showing any signs of life, try to charge the controller for 15 minutes. Look for any indication that the controller is charging (any lights on the controller).
- Try plugging the controller into the console. Attempt to use your controller while it is plugged into your console. Often, this can indicate an issue with the controller hardware and helps us determine if the controller is experiencing an issue with the internal battery.
Causes
If re-syncing the controller with the system didn't work, you can manually reset the controller:
- Locate the small reset button on the back of the DS4 near the L2 button.
- Push the button with a small, pointy object, such as an unfolded paper clip (or a similar object). The button is in a tiny hole next to the top right screw on the bottom outer shell.
- Hold the button down for several seconds, and release.
In addition, updating your controller firmware can also resolve many different issues.
- Connect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
- Go to Settings > Devices > Controllers > Update System Software.
- If there is an update available, then you should update. This will resolve temporary issues with your controller's software and help your controller with issues turning on.
If you cannot resolve the issue by updating your controller's firmware, the issue might be with your controller's physical hardware.
- Check your controller's battery. If the controller is old, the internal battery might be at the end of its life. Consider replacing the battery with a new one.
- Check your controller's charging port for burns or damaged pins. If the charging port is broken, you can reference our charging port repair guide.
- Check your controller's motherboard. Check your controller's motherboard for any burns or damage affecting your controller's ability to function. If you find any burns or damage, you must replace the board.
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PlayStation Controller Ports
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