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How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift

What you need

  1. How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift, How to Fix Stick Drift on Xbox 360 Controller: step 1, image 1 of 2 How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift, How to Fix Stick Drift on Xbox 360 Controller: step 1, image 2 of 2
    • Remove seven screws from the back of the controller using a T8 Torx screwdriver.

  2. How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift: step 2, image 1 of 2 How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift: step 2, image 2 of 2
    • Remove the back to see the motherboard.

    • Do this with caution as it could easily be damaged if wires disconnect.

  3. How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift: step 3, image 1 of 2 How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift: step 3, image 2 of 2
    • Gently dab a cotton swab with isopropyl or rubbing alcohol to the joystick in a circular motion.

    • Be careful when adding liquid; too much liquid can damage the controller.

  4. How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift: step 4, image 1 of 2 How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Joystick Drift: step 4, image 2 of 2
    • Use a blow dryer to dry both the left and right joysticks.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

8 other people completed this guide.

Luis Ramirez

Member since: 08/25/22

288 Reputation

1 Guide authored

5 Guide Comments

This is not a genuine Xbox 360 controller and you truly aren't doing anything at all. You haven't even removed the thumbsticks to service the internals of the sensor assembly lol.

Alexander Dimitrov - Reply

Hi, I did this with a genuine controller and it completely worked for me. I just wiped the metal frames and went round the inside-joystick that I could, with the Q-tip.

ShadowNinja5764 - Reply

is replacing a joystick on a Xbox 360 wireless controller the same as replacing a joystick on a PowerA wired controller

batman2345 - Reply

Not sure, but i do know you need to be careful. The circuit board in the Xbox controller is very easy to damage. The pads can lift easily if not careful when desoldering. Add solder before you try to desolder.

Burned -

I believe this is a fix only for if you get premature stick drift. Stick drift from prolonged/intense use requires replacement of parts.

Wes Plants - Reply

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