How to fix drift on a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller!

Drift is one of the worst issues you have with the console, especially with the Nintendo Switch Pro console. The gradual, unsupported movement may not seem like much at first, but it can slow play with unnecessary movements. The problem can also get worse over time, with the drift gradually increasing in severity to the point that it cannot be ignored.

Trying to fix a control arm skew on your own seems tricky, especially if you don’t know the first thing about console repair. Fortunately, you will not run out of options when it comes to repairing your Pro console. By working through your choices, you can successfully solve the drift problem and get your control levers working properly.

1) Calibrate the controls in the settings menu

Before you even consider disassembling your Pro Controller, there may be a simpler option. Go to the Settings menu with your toggle switch and go to the Controls and Sensors section. From there, go to the options menu until you find the selection of Calibrate Control Sticks.

Screenshot from Gamepur

This will take you through the process of recalibrating the joysticks and returning them to the desired input sensitivity. After the calibration is complete, you can test your control arms to see if the drift continues.

2) Update your consoles

Right above the Calibrate Control Sticks option, you can select Update Controllers. Some of the newer updates have addressed the drift issue and are able to fix it. It may not seem to work especially if you think the problem is hardware related, but it’s worth a try. If updates and calibration did not fix the problem, then you have to take stricter repair procedures.

3) Disassemble and repair the console by yourself

If you have the tools and are confident in your repair skills, you can repair the switch yourself. This will involve opening the switch and should not be done recklessly. To repair it yourself, you will need:

  • Phillips screwdriver # 0
  • compressed air
  • Contact cleaner (optional)

You may be able to get away with using another small screwdriver, but you risk loosening the screws. This could make future repairs more difficult.

Image via Chester’s Blog

This is the process in a step-by-step format. Before proceeding, make sure that your console is not active before working on it for safety reasons. Also, make sure all components are on hand for reassembly.

  1. Loosen the screws on the bottom of the console. Pull the hand handles.
  2. Turn the console over and unscrew the four exposed screws after pulling out the hand knobs. Remove the back panel from the console. This may require some force, but this is normal.
  3. With the back panel gone, use your finger and place it over the gap to the left of the battery. Remove the battery from the console. If you haven’t turned off your console, this is your last chance.
  4. Remove the five rear screws located behind the console. There are two on top, one on the left and right sides, and one on the bottom. This allows you to split the console in half, but be careful during removal.
  5. Take the half with the joystick, then remove the rubber cap from the joysticks.
  6. Use compressed air to blow out any debris that might be stuck inside the control arms themselves. If there is some debris that you cannot reach, use contact cleaner or alternatives such as a cotton swab to remove it.
  7. When everything looks good, reassemble the Pro Controller.

For veterans in the field of self-repair, this process is not difficult. It can be cheaper than hiring a professional to do it for you, and you already have some of these tools on hand. You may be able to borrow some items from friends if it’s been too long.

4) Get an expert to fix it

There’s no shame in being afraid to fix a Pro console yourself, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. If your self-repair skills don’t solve the problem, there may be another bug that you can’t diagnose.

You can always send your Pro console back to your local/regional Nintendo supplier who can make repairs for you. It will cost money, but you can cut costs if you’re still under warranty/you still have the receipt. Alternatively, there are other repair facilities you can take on your Pro console that can perform repairs as well. They may void your warranty, but it can be cheaper.

Fixing the skew issue on your pro controller might seem complicated, but you’ll never run out of options. Work your way down the list, and send your console to the professionals if you can’t find any other solution. Experts will fix it, saving you time and effort.

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