PS4 Controller Drift: How To Fix DualSense Stick Drift on PS4

Are you looking for the best fix for your PS4 controller drift issues? Perhaps you grew tired of missing all those easy headshots! Well, we’ve got you covered. PS4 controller drift is a problem that plagues many PS4 gamers.

A whole bunch of PS4 users will start to face Controller Stick Drift issues way sooner, such as the PS4 controller moving on its own or joystick loss of Calibration.

Also read: How to play GTA 5 Roleplay on PS4

However, all hope is not lost. We at Joingames have taken it upon ourselves to do all the heavy lifting on your behalf and came up with what we believe are the best solutions to rid you of all your PS4 drifting issues once and for all.

Why Does my PS4 Controller Drift?

There are a few reasons your controller may be drifting, all of which fall into two categories: software problems, hardware problems, or a combination of both.

Perhaps you’re playing an action game with many fast-moving objects, such as racing or an FPS game.

Or, you’ve neglected your PS4 controller for some time and let it set there, gathering all the dust in the world and getting it worn out or not properly calibrated.

How to Fix the PS4 Controller Stick Drift (5 easy solutions)

As we previously noted, the PS4 controller drift is a common problem for players of all skill levels. It can happen to anyone, and it’s usually a result of poor grip or technique on the player’s part.

If you’re experiencing PS4 controller drift, you should try some of the following solutions to fix it.

Clean the PS4 controller joysticks

While this may sound like a naive solution, please hear us out. Almost 90% of the time, the reason for Stick Drift is Dust, Dirt, and Grime. However, when cleaning the PS4 controllers, most gamers are doing it wrong; using a compressed Air Can is the best way.

Avoid blowing air through your mouth since that isn’t Hygiene-friendly and has a high chance of pushing moisture in, making your issue even worse.

Ensure that Your PS4 controller is fully updated

Playstation owners are frequently notified of new controller updates when first connecting the DualSense. Please ALWAYS INSTALL THEM!

You’re probably reading this PS4 troubleshooting guide because you have missed out on an update to your PS4 controller.

If no update window is popping out, you can follow the below steps to force an automatic PS4 controller update:

  • Disconnect the PS4 from the internet by navigating to Settings > Networks > Settings > Turn off Internet Connection by simply swiping it to the left.
  • Change the current date: by heading to Settings > System > Date and time > Adjust manually > Increase the date by 2 (e.g. 10-12) > Then press OK.
  • After you have changed the date, please turn off your PS4.
  • Next, connect the gamepad via a USB cable.
  • Reboot your PS4 by pushing the PlayStation button on the controller.

Following the above steps should now allow you to re-display an update option. Now, press X and then wait for it to complete updating.

Reset your PS4 Controller DualSense & Bluetooth

Resetting your DualSense should be one of the first things to do when facing joystick drift issues on PS4. Here is how you can do it:

  • Look on the back of your DualSense for a small hole where the reset button is hidden.
  • Use a paperclip to gently insert and hold down the button for no less than five seconds.
  • Wire your controller back into the PS4 and hop on your favorite game to test if the drift is still present.

Furthermore, resetting your Bluetooth is a recommended step to take right after. To turn off and on your PS4 Bluetooth, follow the following steps:

  • Navigate to your PS4 Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Communication Method and select the Turn Off Bluetooth option.
  • Confirm the Bluetooth connection is disabled, wait a couple of minutes, and then turn it back on.

Pulling our your PS4 joysticks

Many PS4 gamers have reported their unique findings regarding fixing the PS4 controller drift. One is to pull out the stick, not entirely but enough to make it pop out of place, then gently press it back down.

Repeating that a few times until your drifting issues are gone may sound crazy, but we’ve tried this method ourselves, and it seems to get the job done.

Use Deadzonetions in certain games.

While it may look like a hardware issue, the real culprit is the game you’re playing. Unfortunately, many games come with preset settings that won’t suit every gaming platform, and Playstation is no exception.

So before you even think of troubleshooting your controller, we advise you to try out a couple of games first and check if the drifting issues are constant or tend to occur only when playing a specific game.

Should your DualSense stick calibration issues be isolated to one specific game, then your best bet is to edit your PS4 controller Deadzone settings.

Here is a visual tutorial showing you how to do it :

PS4 controller drift warranty

PS4 controllers come with a two-year warranty, a fact most gamers aren’t aware of. Therefore, should the previously mentioned solutions fail to help eliminate your PS5 controller drifting problems, your last resort is to contact Playsation support for more help, mainly asking for a replacement.

Remember that if you’ve opened your PS4 controller, you forfeit all your warranty rights and can’t demand a replacement.

Summary:

And there you have it; you should kiss goodbye to your PS4 controller drift issues.

However, if you’ve found this guide helpful, please leave us a comment below highlighting which solution worked for you, and also share this guide with friends should they be facing the same issue.

JoinGames Staff