Xbox Controller won't stay on (batteries are fine)

Menuboy · Apr 24, 2023

Hey everyone. My Xbox controller is about 3 years old. For no reason it stopped staying on even though the batteries are full charge.

If you hold the Xbox button on it flashes but doesn't stay on or turn the Xbox one. It works fine with a USB cable but that's it. It doesn't turn the Xbox on either or sync.

Anyone come across this before I find it odd that for no reason it would start doing this. Not sure if it's controller or Xbox. I've hard reset the Xbox and factory reset didn't make a difference. Any ideas I feel I've tried the usual suspects.

:)

StoneyYoshi

I'm adding to this thread to share my experience. The controller will not work unless you are using Alkaline AA batteries or rechargeable AA batteries. I just tried replacing my Duracell's that died with some cheap dollar general Carbon-Zinc batteries and it wouldn't stay on until I put in some random Panasonic alkaline ones I found in my house.

Francia J.

That's great to know, Menuboy! Enjoy playing your games.

Menuboy

So I just tried a brand new set of chargeable batteries. The thing now works! So my eight other batteries are clearly defective in some way as they're also chargeable but I'm assuming aren't holding their charge. Thank you anyway Francia!

Menuboy

Hi there. I tried both methods they didn't seem to resolve the issue. With the second option the controller doesn't stay on long enough it just flashes. It doesn't come on long enough for a full cycle?

Francia J.

Hi, I hope you're doing great out there. I am an Independent advisor and I am here to help you with your concern.

The issue can be with the Xbox or the controller so we will isolate the issue, but most probably it's an issue with the controller because usually, if it's an issue on the Xbox, even with the controller plugged in via wired an issue will occur. Kindly try updating the controller, Menuboy.

"1. Press the Xbox button to open the guide, select Profile & System> Settings > Devices & streaming > Accessories, and then select the controller you want to update.

2. On the Xbox Wireless Controller screen, select “…” to check the firmware version for your controller.

3. If it says “Update,” select Firmware version, and then follow the steps provided."

If that didn't work, please try performing a powercycle on the controller by following the steps below:

"1. Press and hold the Xbox button for 5-10 seconds, until the controller turns off.

2. Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the Xbox button again to turn the controller back on."

For your reference, you can check this link: https://support.xbox.com/en-US/help/hardware-ne...

Xbox Controller won't stay on (batteries are fine)