How To Fix Stick Drift on Xbox Series X Wireless Controller (Without Opening)

Introduction

I've grown up playing Xbox, and one problem that I've had to deal with consistently is stick drift. If you don't know, stick drift is when your controller's joysticks move on their own. Often you can't see it move, because it's such a slight movement, but the Xbox receives this input. This problem becomes extremely frustrating in many games because you have to constantly correct the self-moving character or camera angle. I've become pretty fed up with it, so I made this guide to help others fix their controllers instead of spending $60-$150 for a new one. It doesn't take very long. All you need is a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol, a few cotton balls, and 5-10 minutes of your time.

What you need

Step 1 Preparing The Controller

How To Fix Stick Drift on Xbox Series X Wireless Controller (Without Opening), Preparing The Controller: step 1, image 1 of 1

Remove the battery case from the back of the controller
Remove all batteries
If you have a USB connected, remove it from the controller's USB port.

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Step 2 Preparing The Cotton Balls

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Apply a moderate amount of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol to the tip of a cotton ball
Keep your bottle of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol away from children and avoid touching your face and open wounds while using it.

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Step 3 Cleaning The Thumbsticks

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Thoroughly rub the cotton ball along the inside edges of the thumbstick to clean any internal debris.

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Step 4

Allow the controller 1-2 minutes to dry.

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Step 5

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Repeat steps 2-4 three times

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Step 6

Connect your wireless controller to your Xbox and test for stick drift.
If the problem persists, repeat step 5, or replace the potentiometers in the controller.