How to Reset a PS4 Controller

Instead of smashing it on the coffee table

At some point while owning a Sony PS4 console, you may come across an unfortunate circumstance where your controller doesn’t work. Although the DualShock 4 controllers are highly revered for their high-quality functioning and durability, things can always go wrong.

There could be situations where the controller becomes unresponsive, one or a few of the buttons aren’t doing what they should, or a number of other issues. In these cases, a good fix to try is to reset your controller.

There are a couple ways you can reset a PS4 controller, depending on if you have a second controller or not. Both methods are pretty simple to accomplish.

Reset the Controller Through the PS4

This method to reset a PS4 controller is basically disconnecting and reconnecting your controller to the PS4. In many cases this can fix DualShock 4 controller issues. The only condition is that you need to have another controller handy to operate the console.

If you don’t have another controller, the next method will still allow you to reset one. If you do, here are the steps you can take:

Reset a PS4 Controller with the Hard Reset Button

Besides reconnecting the controller, there is also a hiddenResetbutton on them that you can use to do more of a hard resett. A hard reset reverts the controller to its default factory settings just as when it came out from the box. You’ll just need a small tool like a paperclip or small screwdriver to do this.

Before starting, you’ll want to shut down and unplug your PS4 so it doesn’t accidentally interfere with the controller. Then follow these steps:

If it has paired, you should be able to remove it from the USB and use it normally again. If not, there are still some other options you could try in order to fix your controller’s issue.

More Ways to Troubleshoot Your PS4 Controller

If reconnecting or restarting your controller isn’t working, there are still a few more options for you totroubleshoot PS4 issues.

Check your USB cable and ports. Plugg the controller in with a different USB cable, or try the other USB port on the console. In order to make sure the PlayStation console itself is not the issue, you should also try connecting it to a different PS4 if you can or connect the PS4 controller to a PC.

Check the charge on your controller to be sure it has the battery level to run. To do thato, hold thePlayStation buttonon the controller to bring up theQuick Menu. At the bottom, you should see a controller icon with the battery level besides it. If the battery level is low, this could cause connectivity issues.

Connect your controller to the PS4 via USB in order to charge it. You should see the light bar turn orange while it’s charging.

Sometimes, Wi-Fi can cause controller connectivity issues. To check if this is the problem, turn off your Wi-Fi router by unplugging it from the power source before doing the controller reset with theResetbutton.

After you reset the PS4 controller, don’t turn your Wi-Fi back on, but check thet color of your controller’s lights. If it turns blue while the router is off, then you should contact your Internet Service Provider. You can request a different broadcast channel, and once changed you should be able to use your controller with the Wi-Fi on.

If the controller’s light bar is still white, then it’s either an issue with the PS4 or the controller.

Is Your PS4 Controller Working Now?

If you’ve tried all these possibilities and the controller still won’t connect, your best shot is to send it to Sony to have them fix it. You can do this if your PlayStation is still covered under the one-year warranty and you still have your PS4’s Proof of Purchase.

If you feel this is the best option for you, go to PlayStation’sFix & Replacepage to enter your information. Then you can send your controller in and they will repair it or replace it for you.

If you don’t have your PS4 under warranty, you can buy a new one for around $60 on Amazon or in stores.

Since she was a child, Kayla has had a fascination with technology, video games, and filmmaking. Growing up she wrote on multiple personal blogs about these topics, enjoying the process of breaking down technical concepts. Most recently her focus has shifted to writing, and Kayla now reviews and writes technology, video editing, and gaming related articles.Read Kayla’s Full Bio

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How to Reset a PS4 Controller#

Reset the Controller Through the PS4#

Reset a PS4 Controller with the Hard Reset Button#

More Ways to Troubleshoot Your PS4 Controller#

Is Your PS4 Controller Working Now?#