How to fix drift on an Xbox Series X/S controller!

While console drift is usually associated with the Nintendo Switch, it’s an issue any game console can encounter. Xbox Series X/S consoles are no exception, and they also have drift issues. When you see motions that happen when you don’t touch the joystick, that’s the typical sign that you have drifting problems.

Fortunately, it wouldn’t be the end of the world if your console had a drift. There are solutions that you can follow that do not require you to have amazing repair skills. Drift doesn’t have to be a problem you have to face forever, but you need to be proactive in finding a solution.

1) Update your console

The easiest solution is to update your console with the latest firmware. You can do this with the Xbox itself or with a PC that has the Xbox Accessories app. If you don’t have the app, you can get it for free from the Microsoft Store.

Image via Microsoft Store

Update your console’s firmware to the latest version if possible, and restart your console if necessary. Sometimes an update is all you need to properly reconfigure the console and remove drift.

2) Use compressed or compressed air

Drift is often caused by debris stuck around the joystick components. Using a can of compressed or compressed air can expel this debris, preventing something from drifting with the joystick. Make sure your console is not turned on when doing this.

Point the nozzle around the joystick area and use short bursts to blast the debris away. Move the joystick as you apply compressed air to make sure every area around the inside of the joystick gets some air. Plug your console back into the Xbox Series X | your S and test it to see if the drift continues to damage your console.

3) Use isopropyl alcohol

This is not how you might think at first, and it should not be used if you are not comfortable with liquids near electronic devices. But if compressed air isn’t working and you’re comfortable taking the higher risk, this is an option worth considering.

You’ll need about 70% isopropyl alcohol and some cotton swabs, along with your drift control. It is important that your console is not active during repairs, and you do not want to have any children/animals near you while this is happening.

Image via iFixit

Put some alcohol on the swabs, then rub the swab on the smooth, round surface of the affected joystick. Keep doing this until it is completely applied, and allow it to dry. Once it is safely dry, you can turn on your console and test to see if the drift issue is resolved.

4) Repair the console by yourself

If your console is still under warranty, self-repairs will void it. But if you are confident in your repair skills and the other two methods don’t work, it’s worth a try. Remember to turn off your console before trying this. Take a flat head screwdriver with you to remove the screws.

The steps to unlock the console are:

  1. Pull the chassis from the console. You should be able to do this from the left and right sides. Use your nails or slide something thin and sturdy to do the job.
  2. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
  3. Remove the front side of the chassis to reveal the components underneath. You may have to push the back of the chassis to help you.
  4. Remove the analog joystick from the slot that is causing you trouble.
  5. On the left side of the joystick you can see a gray clip. Tighten it to fix the drift problem, or remove it completely with a screwdriver to help.
  6. Reassemble the console.

This should fix drift issues if the repairs are done correctly. Remember to be careful throughout the entire process and don’t lose any screws.

5) Send it in for professional repairs

If nothing else works or you are not confident in fixing it yourself, leave it to the professionals. Locate your local/regional Microsoft Center and follow their process to send the console in for repairs. Get receipts and/or proof of purchase to help you claim your warranty. Alternatively, you can find a local repair store or ask the store where you bought the console for recommendations.

Fixing a drift controller can seem frustrating, especially for Xbox Series X | S so it doesn’t seem like a big deal. But there are always solutions, and sometimes leaving it to the professionals is the right choice.

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