How to Fix PS5 Controller Stick Drift

Stick drift is one of the most frustrating issues PS5 DualSense owners face. Your character moves on its own, your aim drifts in shooters, and menus scroll without input. The good news? Most stick drift can be fixed at home without expensive repairs.

What Causes PS5 Stick Drift?

Stick drift occurs when the analog stick registers input even when you're not touching it. Common causes include:

• Dust and debris - Particles get inside the mechanism and interfere with readings
• Worn potentiometers - The sensors that track stick position degrade over time
• Software glitches - Calibration issues or firmware bugs
• Physical damage - Dropping the controller or excessive force

Method 1: Clean Around the Analog Sticks

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 5 minutes | Success Rate: 40%

This is the quickest fix and works when dust is the culprit:

1. Turn off your controller completely
2. Get a can of compressed air (available at any electronics store)
3. Gently pull the analog stick to one side to expose the base
4. Spray short bursts of compressed air around the base of the stick
5. Rotate the stick while spraying to clean all angles
6. Repeat for the other analog stick
7. Wait 1 minute before testing

Method 2: Reset Your Controller

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 minutes | Success Rate: 20%

A controller reset can fix software-related drift issues:

1. Turn off your PS5 console
2. Locate the small reset hole on the back of the controller (near the L2 button)
3. Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the button for 5 seconds
4. Connect the controller to the PS5 via USB cable
5. Press the PS button to re-pair

Method 3: Update Controller Firmware

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 5 minutes | Success Rate: 15%

Sony occasionally releases firmware updates that can fix drift issues:

1. Connect your controller to PS5 via USB
2. Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers
3. Select Wireless Controller Device Software
4. If an update is available, install it

Method 4: Adjust Deadzone in Games

Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2 minutes | Success Rate: 70% (as workaround)

Many games let you increase the analog stick deadzone, which can mask minor drift:

1. Open the game's settings menu
2. Look for Controller or Input settings
3. Find "Deadzone" or "Stick Deadzone" options
4. Increase the value until drift stops (usually 15-20%)

Method 5: Replace Analog Stick Modules (Permanent Fix)

Difficulty: Advanced | Time: 30-60 minutes | Success Rate: 95%

For a permanent solution, replace the stock potentiometer-based sticks with hall effect modules. Hall effect sensors use magnets instead of physical contact, making them immune to drift.

What You'll Need:

• Hall effect analog stick modules (PS5 compatible)
• Precision screwdriver set (Torx T8, Phillips #00)
• Plastic pry tools
• Soldering iron (for some modules)
• Patience

Basic Steps:

1. Remove the 4 screws from the back of the controller
2. Carefully separate the front and back shells
3. Disconnect the battery
4. Remove the motherboard screws
5. Desolder the old analog stick modules
6. Solder in the new hall effect modules
7. Reassemble and test

Method 6: Sony Warranty Repair

If your controller is under warranty (1 year from purchase), Sony will repair or replace it for free:

1. Visit PlayStation Support
2. Select your country and "Hardware & Repairs"
3. Follow the prompts to submit a repair request
4. Ship your controller (Sony provides a shipping label)

Prevention Tips

Once you've fixed your controller, prevent future drift:

• Store properly - Keep in a case or dust-free area
• Clean regularly - Monthly compressed air cleaning
• Avoid excessive force - Don't slam the sticks
• Use thumb grips - Reduces debris entering the mechanism
• Turn off when not in use - Reduces wear on springs

When to Buy a New Controller

Consider replacing your controller if:

• Multiple buttons are failing alongside drift
• The shell is cracked or damaged
• Drift returns quickly after hardware repair
• Repair costs exceed 60% of a new controller price