You’ve switched on your PlayStation 5, and you are ready to game. The problem, however, is that the DualSense controller is not working despite switching it on.
Like any other electronic appliance, your controller is prone to experience problems in its lifetime. Several reasons may cause your controller to be unresponsive, including a damaged battery or port.
Is your PS5 controller unresponsive, and you don’t know what to do? This article is just what you need. You will learn about the possible cause of a non-function PS5 controller. We will also explain the solutions to get a new PS5 controller to work and get you back in the game!
Reasons why your PS5 controller is not working
Many users have complained of instances where their PS5 controllers are unresponsive or not working. They say that the controller keeps disconnecting and cannot be connected again. Others complain that it does not turn on or sync and hence does not pair with your PlayStation.
We have come up with the possible reasons why the above problems may occur and the solutions to fix them:
1. Damaged internal battery
A faulty battery is a common reason why your controller is not working. The controller may fail to hold a charge, requiring a new battery. It is recommended that you replace the DualSense battery with a capacity of 1560 mAh.
READ: PS5 is not connecting to the internet
2. Failed to connect
Your PS5 controller may fail to connect with the console. In this case, you need to connect the controller to the console using a USB cable. Next, switch on the controller to resync them. If this does not work, you can try to reset the controller using the following steps:
- Switch off your PS5 console.
- Find the small reset button at the back of the controller.
- Using a small device such as a pin or paper clip, push the button inside the hold and hold it down for 3 to 5 seconds.
- Connect the controller to the PS5 console using a USB cable and turn it on.
3. Outdated system software
Your PS5 controller is not working because its software may be outdated. The older version of the software may not support the controller, hence failing to connect. It is easily solved by updating it using the following steps:
- Connect your controller to the console using a USB cable.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Accessories.
- Go to Controllers.
- Select Wireless Controller Device Software.
If the PS5 controller is not working after an update, contact the PlayStation customer support for further assistance.
4. Wear and tear
The PS5 DualSense controller may not work because it is subjected to wear and tear. When you constantly use its thumbsticks, it causes friction, making them wear out.
This is difficult to fix because you will have to take apart the entire controller and replace the worn-out parts with new ones. Instead of doing this, replace the controller with a new one.
5. Damaged USB cable
Another reason why your PS5 controller won’t connect to a PC is because the USB used to connect it to its console is damaged.
If you suspect that the cable is damaged, you can use another cable to connect the controller. It is recommended that you use a new or working USB-C cable.
READ: Why your PlayStation 5 is not showing on TV
6. Connected to other devices
Your PS5 controller may be connected to other Bluetooth devices such as the PC. To solve this, disconnect it from any other device that is nearby. You can also turn off the Bluetooth in the other devices so that they do not sync with the DualSense controller.
7. Damaged ports
If your USB cable is fine and the PS5 controller won’t turn on or charge, it may be that the controller or console’s port is damaged. Check either port for dust or tiny particles and clean them by lightly blowing some air inside.
You may also find the ports loose or not connecting properly. In this case, you have to get it repaired by a professional technician. You can also contact Sony support if you have a valid warranty.
Still unresponsive?
We have listed all the possible causes of your PS5 not working and the alternative solutions.
You may, however, have tried all the above methods, and the PS5 controller is not working. In that case, contact PlayStation customer support, and they will help you fix the problem.