PlayStation 4 Controller Won't Connect to the Console

PlayStation 4 Controller Won't Connect to the Console

Maaz Hussaini and 2 contributors
Last updated on
  1. Power Cycle the Controller and Console: Turn off the controller by holding the PlayStation button on the front of the device, then turn it back on. You'll also want to turn off the PS4 entirely and unplug its power cord. Please wait a minute, plug it back in, and power it on. Most times, power cycling your device can resolve minor software issues.
  2. Check Controller Charge: Ensure that your controller has sufficient charge. Connect it to the PS4 using a USB cable for a few minutes to ensure the battery is not the issue. If your controller is not charged adequately, it might be an issue with the cord you are using.
  3. Test your other controllers: Test if you can repeat the issue with other controllers. This can better indicate if the issue is with your one controller or the PlayStation Console.

Causes

1

If your controller has repeated issues connecting to your PS4 console, you might want to check that your device's software is current. This applies to the controller's firmware and the PS4's system software.

  • Connect the controller to your console and check for firmware updates. Go to Settings > Devices > Controllers > Update System Software.
  • Check your PlayStation's system software is current by going to Settings > System Software Update. If an update is available, then update your PS4.

In addition to updating your console's system software, you will also want to check that your PS4's controller has the latest firmware.

  • Connect the controller to the PS4 using the USB cable.
  • Go to Settings > Devices > Controllers > Update System Software.
  • If an update is available, download it and test if your controller connects.
2

Suppose you find that updating your controller cannot affect the issue and no wireless interference affects your console's Bluetooth features. In that case, you should attempt to factory reset your controller.

  • Forget Device on PS4: Go to "Settings" > "Devices" > "Bluetooth Devices." Select your controller and choose "Forget Device." Then, reconnect the controller.
  • Re-sync Controller: Connect the controller using a USB cable. Go to "Settings" > "Devices" > "Bluetooth Devices." Select the controller and choose "Disconnect." Then, press the PS button to reconnect.
3

If your PlayStation 4 console is next to your Wi-Fi router, it may be causing the problem.

  • Try turning off your Wi-Fi router and attempting to use your controller to test if this is the issue.
  • Remove any other sources of wireless or solid signals or interference near your PS4 console, such as cable boxes or other streaming devices like Apple TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire, etc.
4

If all else has failed, the issue might be with your controller's motherboard.

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