PlayStation 4 Controller Joysticks Locked in Place

Over time, dirt, dust, and other residual materials can get into the crevices between the joysticks and work their way inside the controller. Dried sugar may hinder your joystick movements if you've spilled a sugary drink onto the DualShock 4.

• Use the analog stick replacement repair guide to clean your controller from the inside. Clean the joystick's mechanism with a can of compressed air to remove any debris.
• You can deep clean the joystick covers by removing the sticks and washing them with soap and water. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace the joysticks.

If your thumb sticks are locked in place, the likely cause is damage to the controller.

• Before taking apart your controller, move your thumb sticks around and look for anything obstructing their movement. If the joystick covers are damaged, replace them with a new Analog Stick Cover. You can also learn how to replace the covers with our Joystick Cover Replacement Guide.
• There is a good chance that the joystick's potentiometer is broken. In this case, you'll need to order a replacement analog stick and follow the analog stick replacement guides (Left Analog Stick and the Right Analog Stick).