How to Fix Xbox 360 Controller Analog Stick Without Taking It Apart

The Xbox one 360 controller comes with components that help it function correctly. Sometimes, the left or the light analog stick drift of the Xbox 360 controller may fail to function, leaving the users in incredible frustration, especially if the device is past the warranty period. There are several reasons why the device may fail to function as usual. For instance, the accumulation of dirt on the device interferes with the device’s internal parts, especially the electrical system, thus preventing it from responding correctly.

Do you ever wonder which steps to follow to bring the Xbox 360 controller analog stick to function effectively? In this case, have fewer worries since there are several steps you can follow to bring your device to function as expected without taking it apart. First, ensure you have all the materials you may need, such as a new Xbox 360 controller analog stick if it is faulty.

The article below is helpful even when your Xbox 360 controller analog stick is within the warranty period and is faulty, but you have limited time to reach the service center. So we will look at the steps to follow to fix your Xbox 360 controller analog stick without opening it. Please review the whole article below carefully to learn how to solve such issues.

Step-by-step guide on how to fix Xbox 360 controller analog stick without taking it apart

The first thing to fix the Xbox 360 controller stick without taking it apart is by using isopropyl alcohol and the cotton swabs around the surface of the analog stick. Follow the instructions below to obtain the best results.

Tools necessary

1. Cotton swaps

2. Isopropyl alcohol

3. Compressed air

Check out this quick table

Step 1: Collect all materials necessary

First, ensure you have all the materials you may need throughout the process. Obtain 70% isopropyl alcohol for the rubbing process. Also, obtain cotton swabs around four to five sufficient throughout the process. Also, having all the materials necessary will save the time that you will use moving from one place to another to acquire these materials.

Step 2: Switch off the Xbox 360 controller

Disconnect the Xbox controller from the power supply source or any connection present. Power down the device and ensure no electrical connection between the device and any other device. Be careful when handling the electrical components such as the sockets to prevent the occurrence of electrical shock or blowing off any of these components.

Step 3: Locate the position of the batteries and remove them

After switching the device off, proceed to find the position of the battery cover. Slide to open the battery cover to see the battery. Remove the batteries from their position and scrutinize them to see if there are any issues. If the batteries are faulty, replace them with new ones that function perfectly. You can either buy the batteries or obtain them from an old Xbox 360 controller. Check Amazon for the best batteries.

Step 4: Rub the analog stick using the isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs

Begin by pouring the isopropyl alcohol on the top of the cotton swab. Repeat the process until the cotton swab becomes wet. Dislocate the position of the left or right analog stick with the issue in the push-back direction. Using the cotton swab tip, gently rub the isopropyl alcohol on the rounded surface to get accurate results.

Proceed to rub the base edge of the entire analog stick until it gets adequate isopropyl alcohol and becomes completely clean. You can also use compressed air to suck all dust and dirt present if you have an allergy to alcohol/ don’t take the alcohol for cleaning since it may affect your health, thus increasing expenditure for treatment.

Step 5: Leave the Xbox 360 controller for some time

After cleaning the Xbox 360 controller analog stick correctly, leave it dry completely. The recommended time for it to dry is approximately thirty to forty seconds. Testing the whole device before drying may harm other parts of the device and increase the repair or replacement costs. Repeat the rubbing process using different cotton swabs and clean isopropyl alcohol to get the best results. Perform this process approximately three to four times and each time, ensure you leave the controller to dry for around 30 to 40 seconds. You can also use compressed air to suck the dirt.

Step 6: Test the controller

Once you finish the whole process, test the device to see if it functions correctly. If the issue persists, check the analog stick to see if it is in good condition, and if not, consider replacing the component. It is advisable to seek help from an expert if you cannot carry out the process on your own.

Reasons why the Xbox 360 controller analog stick malfunction

There are several reasons why your Xbox 360 analog stick may fail to function. Some of the reasons include the following;  Check Amazon for the best Xbox 360 analog stick.

i. Presence of debris and dirt on the surface of the analog stick.

Accumulation of debris and dirt on the surface of the analog sticks is the main reason the device fails to function. Once dirt accumulates on the surface, it prevents the electrical and other components from functioning correctly, including the analog stick. The only way to solve such an issue is by cleaning the analog stick using the recommended tools, the isopropyl alcohol, and the cotton swabs.

ii. Faulty analog stick or potentiometer

With continuous use of the Xbox 360 controller, the analog stick may wear out and, as a result, fail to function as usual. In this case, the analog stick will keep shifting in direction when in use or when not in use, thus preventing the users from playing their games correctly. Also, the analog stick may fail to function due to a faulty potentiometer. The only way to solve such an issue is by replacing it with a new one that functions correctly.

You might be interested to read also our another comprehensive article of; How to fix a broken Xbox 360 controller

Frequently asked questions:

• How can I fix my Xbox 360 controller analog stick that keeps drifting?

There are several ways to fix your analog stick after taking it out. Here are some of these steps;

i. Turn off the Xbox 360 controller. The first thing you need to do is ensure your device is off and then proceed to the other steps.

ii. Reboot the Xbox 350 controller to solve all issues that may suddenly pop out. Press and hold the power button until the reboot setting appears to reboot the device. Choose the reboot Xbox setting, and the device will reboot automatically. Wait for it to turn on and test it to see if the problem persists.

iii. Clean the device using the recommended tools. Gently wipe the analog stick using a dry microfiber cloth to remove all the dust. Then, remove the grime present using a cotton swab in a mixture of water and alcohol, commonly the isopropyl alcohol. If you cannot reach the dirt, use compressed air to suck it from its position. Check Amazon for the best isopropyl alcohol.

iv. If the issue persists, take the device to the repair shop. But, if your device is still within the warranty period, consider contacting the seller for replacement rather than buying new ones, which is costly.

v. To deepen the cleaning, disassemble the device, and remove the casing and the battery to access the motherboard. Clean the internal parts using compressed air or the cotton swabs and the isopropyl alcohol.

vi. Finally, replace the analog sticks if the issue persists. Ensure you use well-functioning analog sticks that you can get from buying an old Xbox 360 controller.

Conclusion

Fixing an Xbox 360 controller that is not functioning is easy and does not require an expert or a professional. The article above gives the simplified steps to fix a malfunctioning or faulty analog stick. Such a process requires a lot of carefulness to avoid damaging the device’s internal parts.

Finally, it is necessary to seek help if the issue persists. But, if you are willing to replace the analog sticks, first, ensure you buy well-functioning ones considering the quality and price. Remember to service your device more often according to the manufacturer’s instructions in the manual guide. I wish you Good luck in an attempt to fix your Xbox 360 controller device to be able to play games again.