Why is my controller unresponsive?

mxndic · Apr 22, 2024

My Xbox controller randomly stopped working last night.It can turn on and the light stays on still, but none of the buttons etc respond. When I unpaired and tried to pair it to my Xbox again, it doesn’t,seem to want to and after holding the pair button down for a few seconds to try and pair it, the Xbox controller vibrates twice and then turns off. I can only turn off the controller by taking out the batteries.

I think I managed to re-pair the controller with the console once or twice but it still didn’t react to any buttons etc being pressed.

My Xbox is an Xbox One S and we bought it way back around 2018-20-19. It has the energy saving mode off and works fine aside from being a bit slow at loading some games - but none of this should affect the actual controller.

The controller is much newer (bought around 2022 from memory) and never had any issues until randomly not working. Im unable to get a refund for it anymore and it still seems to work fine aside from the unresponsiveness, so id really like to try and fix it otherwise im limited to one older controller which has stick drift - my last resort is purchasing a new controller.

:)

Darhyl Amizola

Hi there! My name is Darhyl and I’d be more than happy to help you with your query.

I'm sorry you are experiencing this with your Xbox controller.

Kindly try to update the controller's firmware using Windows PC to see if it works according to the official Xbox website: https://support.xbox.com/en-US/help/hardware-network/controller/update-xbox-wireless-controller

"Update your controller on Windows 10/11 by using the Xbox Accessories app:

If you don’t already have the app installed, get it in the Store:

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9NBLGGH30XJ3?hl=en-us&gl=SA

Open the Xbox Accessories app.
Connect your Xbox Wireless Controller by using a USB cable or the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows.
When the controller is connected, you'll see the message Update Required if an update is mandatory. Install the update.

Things to keep in mind:

The Xbox Accessories app is available only on Windows 10/11.
Updating the controller over Bluetooth is not supported."

Then check if the controller will work properly on your console.

Thank you for your kindness and understanding! Please feel free to let me know if you need anything else.

Best Regards,
Darhyl

Nkosana23

Hi. My name is Brilliant, an independent advisor, happy to assist you today.

Here are a few troubleshooting tips you can try to resolve your query:
1. Many controller issues can be resolved by putting the controller through a complete power cycle. To power cycle your controller:
1.1. Press and hold the Xbox button for 5-10 seconds, until the controller turns off.
1.2. Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the Xbox button again to turn the controller back on.

2. Connect your controller to the console with a USB cable.

3. Update your controller.

For more details on the above, kindly visit: https://support.xbox.com/help/hardware-network/controller/wireless-controller-solution

I hope this helps resolve your query.

Jonny306

Hello there!

My name is Jonny and I will be assisting you today!

First, thank you so much for contacting us regarding your inquiry/ concern.

I do look forward to resolving this problem together!

Can you plug the controller into the console and then hold the power button on your Xbox until it fully powers down? Once off, unplug the power cord for a minute. Plug it back in and use the controller to turn it on. Once on, unplug the controller and see if this still happens.

Varakharne

My only complaint is the controls on all 3 games feels very unresponsive.

PettyManatee361

I just bought the covert forces controller and I'm experiencing the same issue. The d pad is unresponsive. I'm currently in possession of the controller and retail packaging, and it's still unresponsive.

Why is my controller unresponsive?