How to Fix Stick Drift on a PS5 Controller

There are few things more annoying than realizing your controller has stick drift while in the middle of doing something that really relies on it. Of course, you can just go out and buy yourself a new controller, but that won’t fix the issue for the next time it happens. Unfortunately, it seems that no matter how gentle you are, controllers will eventually suffer from some sort of issues concerning buttons and joysticks that are commonly used. On the flip side, it’s fortunate that fixing the drift issue isn’t actually as difficult as you might think. So, this is how to fix stick drift on your PS5 controller.

Fixing PS5 Controller Stick Drift

There are four things you can do to fix your PS5 controller stick drift:

1. Update Your DualSense Controller
2. Rest Your DualSense Controller
3. Adjust the Dead Zone
4. Clean the Joysticks

I’ve broken down each of these steps towards fixing the drift before you’ll have to make the decision to send your current one in for repairs or just bite the bullet and get a new one.

1. Update Your Console and DualSense Controller

Sometimes, the issue can be resolved with a simple update. The update your console and controller, follow these quick instructions:

• Go to Settings > System > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software > Update Using Internet

If there is update to be done, then your system will let you know and you can immediately get it started.

2. Reset Your DualSense Controller

To reset your controller, follow these instructions:

1. Turn your controller around and locate the small hole to the left of the Sony logo.
2. Grab something thin, like a paper clip, and put it into the hole.
3. Press down into the slot and hold it there for five seconds.

3. How to Adjust the Dead Zone on a PS5 Controller

Unfortunately, this is an issue that can only resolve your drift issue on a case-by-case basis. There is no way to adjust the dead zone on your controller through the system, but some games allow you to do it. Here is a small list of games that allow you to adjust the dead zone on your controller.

• Warzone
• Fortnite
• Apex Legends
• Rocket League

4. Clean the Joysticks

Your last line of defense before making the decision to either get a new controller or send yours out for repairs is to clean the joysticks. There is definitely a right way to do this and a wrong way. Firstly, it’s important to understand that you do not need to open the controller for this. In fact, I strongly advise against opening your controller unless you are positive that you can put it back together. Follow these instructions to get both joysticks clean:

1. Locate a toothpick, a cotton swab, or other small object with a cotton ball at the end.
2. Using electronics cleaner or isopropyl alcohol, dip the cotton in.
3. Use the wet swab to clear around the inside of the joystick below where your fingers rest.
4. After drying, repeat the same action with the other joystick.
5. Once both joysticks are clean, use a can of compressed air of an electric duster to remove any additional dust that might be lingering.

If you tried everything above and are still suffering from stick drift issues in your controller, then it might be time to throw in the towel. Beside that, this is everything you need to know to learn how to fix stick drift on a PS5 controller.