Why Won’t My PS4 Controller Connect? Troubleshooting Guide

You’re ready to dive into your favorite PlayStation 4 game, but your controller refuses to connect. It’s a frustrating situation many gamers face, similar to other PS4 issues like overheating or controller drift, which can halt your gaming session before it even begins. When your PS4 controller won’t connect, it can feel like game over, but often, the fix is simpler than you think.

At Asurion, we understand tech frustrations. We’re here to help you troubleshoot your PS4 controller connection issues, just like we assist with speeding up your phone or fixing TVs with sound problems. Our tech experts have compiled this guide to help you understand why your PS4 controller might not be connecting and, more importantly, how to get it working again.

Common Reasons Your PS4 Controller Won’t Connect

Sometimes, a “PS4 controller not connecting” issue is described as a “PS4 controller not working” problem. While the symptoms may seem the same, the root causes can vary. According to Asurion Experts, here are some common reasons why your PS4 controller might be failing to connect:

• Defective Controller: While less common, the controller itself could be faulty or malfunctioning due to hardware issues.
• Dead Battery: The most straightforward cause – your controller might simply be out of battery and needs charging.
• Paired with Another Device: DualShock 4 controllers can pair with multiple devices. If it was recently connected to a different PS4 or even a PC, it may need to be re-paired with your console.
• Bluetooth Range Issues: Bluetooth has a limited range. If you’re too far from your PlayStation 4, the controller might lose connection.
• Faulty or Disconnected USB Cable: If you’re using a wired connection or attempting to pair via USB, a damaged or improperly connected cable can be the culprit.
• Power Save Settings: Your PS4’s power-saving settings might be automatically turning off the controller to conserve energy.
• Button Malfunctions: Though less directly related to connection, a stuck or broken button could interfere with the controller’s overall functionality and perceived connection.

Knowing these potential causes is the first step to fixing the problem. Let’s explore the troubleshooting steps to get your PS4 controller connected and back in the game.

Re-pairing Your PS4 Controller: The Soft Reset

If your PS4 controller isn’t connecting, the first and often most effective step is to re-pair it with your console. This is essentially a soft reset of the connection. You’ll typically need a second, working DualShock 4 controller to navigate the PS4 menu for this process.

1. Navigate to Bluetooth Settings: On your PlayStation 4 dashboard, use your working controller to go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices.
2. Select the Problem Controller: Locate your inactive DualShock 4 controller in the list of devices. It will be identifiable as the one without a green dot icon next to it.
3. Forget the Device: Press the Options button on your working controller. Then, select Forget Device. This action will remove the malfunctioning controller’s pairing information from your PS4 system.
4. Power Down Your PS4: Using your working controller again, press the PS button, then select Power > Turn off PS4. Ensure the console completely shuts down.
5. Connect and Power On: Once the PS4 is fully off, connect your malfunctioning controller to the PS4 console using a USB cable. Now, turn the console back on.
6. Pair via USB: With the console powered on and the controller connected via USB, press the PS button on your malfunctioning controller. This should initiate the pairing process. Log in to your PS4 profile as usual.

This re-pairing process often resolves simple connection glitches and gets your controller communicating with your PS4 again.

Controller Connected but Not Responding? Check for Software Updates

In some cases, your PS4 console might recognize the controller as connected, but it still won’t respond to inputs. This can sometimes be due to outdated system software. Updating your PS4’s system software can resolve compatibility issues and ensure smooth controller operation.

1. Access System Software Update: Go to Settings on your PS4 dashboard. Navigate to System Software Update.
2. Initiate Update: Select Update Now. Follow the on-screen prompts, choosing Next on the update information screens.
3. Accept and Install: Finally, select Accept to agree to the terms and begin the system software update download and installation process.

Keeping your PS4 system software up-to-date is crucial for overall performance and compatibility with peripherals like controllers.

Button Issues? Inspect and Clean

If specific buttons on your PS4 controller aren’t working, carefully examine them. Check for any visible issues like:

• Stickiness: Buttons feeling sticky or slow to respond can indicate residue buildup.
• Looseness: Excessively loose buttons might be dislodged or damaged.
• Cracks or Damage: Physical damage to the buttons can impede their function.

For sticky buttons, cleaning can often be the solution. Use a cotton swab or a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with electronics cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Gently wipe around the affected button, being careful not to let excessive liquid seep into the controller. Never use harsh chemical cleaners or pour liquid directly onto the controller.

Trackpad Troubles? Try Disconnecting and Cleaning

If your PS4 controller’s trackpad is unresponsive, a simple disconnection and reconnection might do the trick. Unpair the controller from your PS4 (similar to the “Forget Device” step in re-pairing) and leave it disconnected for a few minutes. Then, try re-pairing it.

If disconnection doesn’t work, cleaning the trackpad surface can help, especially if it’s become dirty or oily.

1. Power Off Controller: Turn off your controller by pressing and holding the PS button for approximately 10 seconds.
2. Clean the Trackpad: Use a dry microfiber cloth or one slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the trackpad surface.
3. Dry and Power On: Ensure the trackpad is completely dry before turning the controller back on.

If the trackpad issue only occurs in a specific game, the problem might be with the game’s software. Check for game updates and install the latest version.

Battery Life Problems? Charge and Maintain

DualShock 4 controllers typically offer around 8 hours of playtime on a full charge. If your controller’s battery seems to drain much faster, ensure you’re charging it correctly and managing its power.

• Charging: Connect your controller to your PS4 console using a Micro-USB cable and allow it ample time to charge.
• Power Off When Not in Use: Turn off your controller when you’re not actively gaming to conserve battery life.

How to Turn Off and Charge Your PS4 Controller:

• From the Controller: Press and hold the PS button for about 10 seconds until the controller powers down.
• From the PS4 Dashboard:
  1. Press and hold the PS button for 2 seconds to access the Quick Menu.
  2. Navigate to Sound/Devices > Turn Off Device and select your controller.
  3. You can also set an automatic turn-off timer for controllers in the Quick Menu under Set Time Until Controllers Turn Off (options include 10, 30, or 60 minutes of inactivity).

If battery issues persist, the battery itself might be nearing the end of its lifespan and may need replacement. Note: Replacing the battery yourself may void your controller’s warranty.

General Fixes for PS4 Controller Connection Issues

If the specific troubleshooting steps haven’t resolved your controller connection problems, try these general tips:

Wired Connection Test

If you’ve been playing wirelessly, try connecting your DualShock 4 to your PS4 using a USB cable. If this establishes a connection, it could indicate a problem with the Bluetooth connection. If the first cable doesn’t work, try a different USB cable to rule out a faulty cable.

Restart Your PS4 Console

A simple console restart can often resolve temporary glitches that might be interfering with controller connectivity.

1. Power Down: Press and hold the power button on your PS4 console for 3-7 seconds until it powers off.
2. Restart: Press and hold the power button again.
3. Listen for Beeps: Release the power button when you hear two beeps.
4. Connect via USB: Connect your controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
5. Power On Controller: Press the PS button on the controller to turn it on.

Hard Reset Your Controller

A hard reset restores your PS4 controller to its factory default settings and can resolve deeper configuration issues. Don’t worry, this won’t erase your game save data. You’ll need a paper clip or a pin and a Micro-USB cable for this process.

1. Power Off PS4: Turn off your PlayStation 4 completely. Disconnecting it from the internet during this process can sometimes be helpful.
2. Unplug Controller: Disconnect the controller from any USB connection and flip it over.
3. Locate Reset Button: Find the small recessed reset button in the tiny hole near the L2 button on the back of the controller.
4. Press and Hold Reset: Use your paper clip or pin to press and hold the reset button for at least 6 seconds.
5. Reconnect and Pair: Release the reset button and wait a few seconds. Then, plug the controller back into your PS4 using the Micro-USB cable.
6. Power On Controller: Press the PS button. The controller’s light bar should turn blue, indicating it’s paired. You can now log in to your PS4.

Test on Another Device

To quickly determine if the problem lies with your controller or your PS4 console’s wireless connectivity, try connecting your controller to a different Bluetooth-enabled device, such as a PC or a friend’s PS4.

• Controller Issue: If the controller doesn’t work on another device, the problem is likely with the controller itself.
• PS4 Issue: If the controller does work on another device, the issue might be with your PlayStation 4’s Bluetooth or wireless connectivity.

If you’ve exhausted these troubleshooting steps and your PS4 controller still refuses to connect, professional help might be needed. Consider scheduling a repair at your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store. Their certified technicians can diagnose and repair your controller, often getting you back to gaming on the same day.

The Asurion® trademarks and logos are the property of Asurion, LLC. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Asurion is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any of the respective owners of the other trademarks appearing herein.