XBOX Controller S Joystick Replacement

Introduction

If your Xbox Controller S joystick isn't working due to stick drift or no response, use this guide to replace the joystick (also known as the analog stick).

The joystick lets you look and move around while playing the game. Over time, these joysticks can develop stick drift, where the joystick moves in one direction even when you aren't touching it. It can also break over time due to wear and tear.

Before using this guide, if you think your controller might have stick drift, redirect yourself to our troubleshooting page.

Steps 2, 3, and 5 require you to use a soldering iron to remove the joystick from the circuit board.

This video link will be helpful in your device repair.

What you need

Step 1 Shell

XBOX Controller S Joystick Replacement, Shell: step 1, image 1 of 1

Remove the seven 9.4 mm screws on the back of the controller using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
One screw is hidden behind the sticker on the back of the controller. Peel that sticker back and remove that screw as well.

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Step 2

XBOX Controller S Joystick Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Keep the controller facing down to prevent components from falling out.
Remove the back shell.
Flip the controller over and remove the front shell.

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Step 3 Joystick Replacement

XBOX Controller S Joystick Replacement, Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 1 of 3

XBOX Controller S Joystick Replacement, Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 2 of 3

XBOX Controller S Joystick Replacement, Joystick Replacement: step 3, image 3 of 3

Remove the motherboard from the back shell.
You will need to remove the trigger when replacing the left joystick.
Desolder the three points to the right of the joystick on the top of the motherboard.
Pry the trigger clip away from the top, then lever it downward to remove the trigger.
Replacing the right joystick will not require removing the trigger assembly.

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Step 4

Desolder the 14 solder pads to remove the joystick completely.
Take your time and remove the solder pads one at a time.
If one of the pads is difficult to desolder, move on to the next one and come back when you're done—this gives it time to cool and prevents damage to the board.

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Step 5

Remove the joystick from the circuit board.
Carefully clean the surfaces and pads with 99% isopropyl alcohol to remove any excess flux.

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Step 6

Slide the new joystick into position and make sure it is fully seated against the circuit board.
Solder one or two of the larger legs of the analog stick first to hold it securely in position.
If it isn't secure, make some adjustments by reheating your joints and filling in the other pads with solder and cleaning the area, if needed.