Xbox One Wireless Controller Turns Itself Off

Xbox One Wireless Controller Turns Itself Off

Jacob Mehnert and 1 contributor
Last updated on

Often it is easy to forget the troubleshooting basics during times of frustration. Before attempting any significant repairs for your device, check the following.

  • Try to power-cycle your console. Sometimes temporary software glitches might cause how your Xbox interacts with your controller. Try powering off your Console completely and power it back on. This should resolve any temporary software issues that may be causing issues with your controller.
  • Replace your batteries/Charge your controller. If you are using disposable batteries or a battery pack, then there could be a good chance that your controller has simply run out of battery life.
    • If you are using disposable batteries, try replacing them with batteries you know are fresh. Even if the batteries haven't been used, they can still go bad if given enough time.
    • If you are using a rechargeable battery pack, try connecting the controller to a power source to charge it fully. Typically it takes around 2 hours for the batteries to fully charge.
  • Ensure that your controller is actually charging. If your controller isn't plugged in properly, then there is a good chance that your controller hasn't gotten a full charge.
    • When you go to plug in your controller, make sure that the cable is seating correctly in the controller's port.
    • You can also verify that your controller is charging by viewing the battery icon in the upper right-hand corner of your Xbox's main dashboard.
  • Ensure that the controller is not turning off due to a power setting. Xbox's Auto Sleep feature might be causing your controller to fall asleep automatically as a power-saving feature. You can adjust this feature by going to System > Settings > General > Power Mode & Start-Up and adjusting the Turn off after option.

If none of these solutions we able to resolve the issue, then continue to the more in-depth troubleshooting tips below.

Causes

1

Outdated controller firmware can cause various issues, including unexpected shutdowns. You can check if your controller's firmware is up to date by using the following steps.

  1. Connect your Xbox controller to your Xbox console using a USB cable.
  2. Go to Settings > Devices & Connections > Accessories.
  3. Select your controller, and if an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to update the firmware.
2

Software-related issues can cause your controller to not connect to your console properly. Normally you can resolve these software issues by resetting your controller with the following steps.

  1. Power off the controller by pressing the Xbox button for 10-15 seconds.
  2. Remove the batteries from the back of the controller (Assuming that you are using the controller with a removable battery).
  3. Place the batteries back into the controller, and power it on.

Alternatively, you can reset the controller from the console via a hard reset.

  1. Power off the controller by pressing the Xbox button for 10-15 seconds.
  2. Completely power off the Xbox console by pressing and holding the console's power button for 10-15 seconds.
  3. Remove the power cord from the back of the console and wait for 30 seconds to allow the console to discharge any electricity.
  4. Press the Xbox button on the console to power it on.
  5. Connect your controller to your console with the USB cable included with your controller and wait for your controller to re-sync with your Xbox.

If the steps detailed above were unable to resolve the issue, then there is a possibility that your console is experiencing signal interference. This issue can be resolved using the instructions detailed in the next section.

3

Interference with your Xbox's wireless capabilities can cause your game controller to not see your Xbox. Typically when this happens your controller will stay on for a brief period of time to attempt to find your Xbox, and will turn off if it fails to see your system.

  • If you noticed the problem occurring while trying to use a mic or headset, then there is the possibility that it's interfering with your controller's wireless communication. Try removing the headset and see if the controller can communicate with your console.
  • Ensure there are no large electronic devices or other wireless devices (e.g., routers, or wireless access points) near your Xbox console or controller.
  • Move the console or eliminate potential sources of interference to see if it improves the controller's stability.
4

If your controller has been thrown out of a fit of rage or has seen years of heavy use, then there is the possibility that the controller has physical internal damage. You will need to refer to your controller's specific disassembly process.

  • Ensure that all the needed connections are made. Some Xbox controllers might have more than the single motherboard, which requires several different connection points to ensure power gets to all the components. If you recently opened your controller for any reason, look for any disconnected wires that may have become loose from their connection points.
  • Perform a visual inspection of your controller's PCB boards. If you observe any visible damage, such as burns or components that appear to be physically damaged, then there is a good chance that the board may need to be replaced.
    • If your controller recently took a swim, then there is a good chance that the controller may have sustained liquid damage. If this is the case, take a look at the iPhone Liquid Damage Repair Guide, for some good tips for repairing any liquid damaged electronic.

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