If your PS4 controller is only working when plugged in, you may be feeling frustrated. Don’t worry, though – with a few troubleshooting tips, you can get your controller working properly again. In this blog post, we’ll look at five troubleshooting tips for when your PS4 controller only works when plugged in.
We’ll look at what to do before you start troubleshooting, how to check the charging port for built-up dust or grit, tips on how to clean the charging port, how to reset and re-pair your PS4 controller, and other troubleshooting tips for when your PS4 controller isn’t working properly. So if you’re having trouble with your PS4 controller, keep reading to learn how to get it working again.
What to Do Before Troubleshooting Your PS4 Controller
If you’re experiencing issues with your PS4 controller only working when plugged in, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to try and fix the problem. Before you try any of these methods, make sure the controller is fully charged. If the battery is low, it won’t be able to hold a charge, even when plugged in. If the controller is already fully charged, then you can move onto the next steps.
If your controller is still having issues, then the first step is to check the charging port. This is where the USB cable plugs into the controller, and it can easily become blocked with dust or debris. If this happens, it can interfere with the power flow and prevent your controller from charging properly.
Another step to take before troubleshooting your PS4 controller is to make sure the USB cable is working properly. Try using a different USB cable and see if the issue persists. If the issue stops when you use a different USB cable, then the original cable is likely the cause of the problem.
Finally, make sure the USB port on your PS4 console is clean and free of debris. Dust and debris can build up in the port and interrupt the power flow, resulting in your controller only working when plugged in. To clean the USB port, use a wooden toothpick or compressed air. Be careful not to push too hard, as this could damage the port.
How to Check the Charging Port for Built-up Dust or Grit
Next thing to review, it’s possible that there is a blockage or buildup of dust or grit in the charging port. This is a common problem that can prevent your controller from charging correctly and can cause it to malfunction. You can check the charging port for built-up dust or grit by using a flashlight or magnifying glass to look inside the port.
If you do find dust or grit in the port, it’s important to clean it out as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your controller. There are several methods that you can use to do this, such as using a cotton swab or compressed air to remove any debris. Make sure to take extra care when cleaning the port, as you don’t want to damage the delicate electrical components inside.
If you’re unable to clean the port yourself, you can always take your controller to a professional repair shop or send it in to Sony for service. If you choose to do this, make sure to back up any save data you have on the controller before sending it in.
In some cases, the built-up dust or grit can be so severe that it prevents the controller from connecting or charging properly. If this is the case, you may need to purchase a new charging cable or controller. If you’re not sure what kind of cable or controller you should get, you can always consult with a professional repair shop or contact Sony for advice.
You should also check the USB port on your console for any debris or damage. If the port is damaged or blocked, it can prevent your controller from charging or connecting properly. If you find any issues with the port, you may need to replace it or get it repaired by a professional.
By checking the charging port and USB port for built-up dust or grit, you can help ensure that your PS4 controller is functioning properly. If the issue persists, you can always consult with a professional repair shop or contact Sony for further troubleshooting tips.
Tips on How to Clean the Charging Port
If your PS4 controller only works when plugged in, the issue could be caused by built-up dust or grit in the charging port. Cleaning the charging port is a relatively simple and straightforward process that can be done in a few minutes.
Safety Precautions
Before cleaning the charging port, it is important to take a few safety precautions. First, make sure your PS4 controller is turned off and unplugged. Second, never insert any metal objects into the charging port, as this can cause permanent damage to the controller.
Using a Can of Compressed Air
The best way to remove built-up dust or grit from the charging port is to use a can of compressed air. This can be found at most electronics stores. Simply hold the can about 10 inches away from the charging port and spray for a few seconds. Make sure to move the can around the port to ensure all the dust is removed.
Using a Q-Tip and Isopropyl Alcohol
If you do not have a can of compressed air, you can use a Q-tip and some isopropyl alcohol to clean the charging port. Dip the Q-tip in the alcohol and then gently rub it around the charging port. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. After you have finished, use a clean dry cloth to wipe away any excess alcohol.
Using a Cotton Swab and Water
If you do not have any isopropyl alcohol, you can also use a cotton swab and some water to clean the charging port. Again, gently rub the swab around the charging port and get into all the nooks and crannies. After you have finished, use a clean dry cloth to wipe away any excess water.
Using a Vacuum Cleaner
Finally, if you do not have any of the above items, you can also use a vacuum cleaner to clean the charging port. Make sure the vacuum cleaner is set to the lowest setting and is at least 10 inches away from the charging port. Move the vacuum cleaner around the port to ensure all the dust is removed.
Cleaning the charging port is an important step in troubleshooting your PS4 controller if it only works when plugged in. Make sure to take the necessary safety precautions and follow the steps outlined above to ensure your controller is functioning properly.
How to Reset and Re-pair Your PS4 Controller
If your PS4 controller only works when plugged in, resetting and re-pairing it with your console may be the best way to solve the issue. Resetting and re-pairing your PS4 controller is a quick and easy process that requires no technical expertise.
Step 1: Turn off your PS4 console
The first step is to turn off your PS4 console. To do this, simply press and hold the power button until the console powers off.
Step 2: Connect the PS4 controller to the console via USB cable
Once the PS4 console has been turned off, you can connect the PS4 controller to the console via USB cable. This will allow the controller to be re-synced with the console.
Step 3: Press the PS button on the controller
Once the controller is connected to the console via USB cable, press the PS button on the controller. This will initiate the re-pairing process.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions
Once the PS button has been pressed, you will be presented with a series of on-screen instructions. Follow these instructions carefully in order to successfully re-pair your controller.
Step 5: Restart the console
Once the re-pairing process has been completed, it is important to restart the console. This will ensure that the controller is properly connected and functioning correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you are having trouble connecting the controller to the console, make sure that the USB cable is firmly connected to both the controller and the console. If the controller is still not working, try restarting the console again. Additionally, you may need to replace the USB cable if it is worn out or damaged.
Re-pairing your PS4 controller is a great way to troubleshoot any issues you may be having with your controller. If the controller is still not working properly after re-pairing, there may be an underlying issue with the controller itself. In this case, you may need to replace the controller or send it in for repairs.
Troubleshooting Tips for PS4 Controllers Not Working Properly
If your PS4 controller is not working properly, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to get it back in working order. Here are some of the most common troubleshooting tips for PS4 controllers not working properly.
Check Your USB Cable
The first thing you should do when troubleshooting your PS4 controller is check the USB cable. Make sure that the cable is securely connected to both the controller and the PS4 console. You should also make sure the cable is in good condition and not frayed or broken.
Check the Battery Level
Another common issue with PS4 controllers not working properly is a low battery. Make sure the controller is fully charged, either by plugging it in or replacing the batteries. If the battery level is low, the controller may not be able to connect to the console.
Unplug and Re-plug the USB Cable
If the USB cable is securely connected to both the controller and the PS4 console, but the controller is still not working properly, try unplugging and re-plugging the USB cable. This can sometimes reset the connection and get the controller back in working order.
Re-pair the Controller
If your controller is still not working properly, you may need to re-pair it with the console. To do this, turn off the PS4 console, unplug the USB cable, and then turn the console back on. Then plug the USB cable back into the controller and the console. The controller should now be re-paired and should be working properly.
Check the Firmware
If your controller is still not working properly, it may be due to a firmware issue. To check the firmware, go to the PS4’s Settings menu and select System Software Update. If there is an update available, download and install it. This should resolve any firmware issues and get your controller back in working order.
These are some of the most common troubleshooting tips for PS4 controllers not working properly. If none of these tips work, then you may need to replace the controller. However, following these tips should help you get your controller back in working order.
Other Reasons Why Your PS4 Controller May Be Malfunctioning
Sometimes, your PS4 controller may be malfunctioning due to other causes other than a blocked charging port. If your controller is still not working after trying all of the above tips, then it’s likely that the controller is experiencing a hardware issue.
Battery Issues – If your controller is not charging properly, it may be due to a faulty battery. This could be caused by a battery that’s past its lifespan, or due to a defect in the battery itself. If the battery is no longer holding a charge, you’ll need to replace it.
Faulty Wiring – Another issue that can cause your PS4 controller to malfunction is faulty wiring. Faulty wiring can be caused by physical damage to the controller, or by a manufacturing defect. If the wiring is damaged, you’ll need to replace the controller.
Damaged Buttons – If the buttons on your controller are sticking, not working properly, or not responding correctly, then it may be due to a physical issue with the buttons themselves. In this case, you may need to replace the buttons or the entire controller.
Software Issues – If your controller is experiencing software issues, such as not being able to connect to your console or not being able to update the firmware, then it may be due to a software issue. In this case, you’ll need to reinstall the controller’s software or update the firmware.
Defective Controllers – Finally, your controller may be experiencing problems due to a manufacturing defect. If your controller is still within its warranty period, you may be able to get a replacement from the manufacturer.
If none of the above tips have helped to fix your PS4 controller, then it’s likely that you’re dealing with a hardware issue. In this case, you may need to replace the controller in order to get it working again.
It’s frustrating when your PS4 controller only works when plugged in, but with a few troubleshooting tips, you can get your controller working properly again. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can check the charging port for built-up dust or grit, clean the charging port, and reset and re-pair your PS4 controller. Additionally, there may be other issues causing your controller to malfunction, such as a faulty battery or outdated drivers. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can troubleshoot and get your PS4 controller working like new again.
