If you’re experiencing PS4 controller charging issues, this guide is for you. We’ll show how you can quickly fix this problem so that you can resume your gaming session.
Why won’t my PS4 controller charge? The most common reasons why your PS4 controller fails to charge are the following: the charging cable is damaged, there’s dust in the charging port or there’s a major hardware issue with the controller blocking the charging (such as loose hardware pieces).
How do I know if my PS4 controller is charging? When the PS4 controller is charging, the light bar blinks orange if the console is in rest mode. Also, the charge level of the battery becomes visible on the screen when users press the PS button.
PS4 Controller Won’t Hold the Charge
Fix 1 – Reset the controller
Turn off the controller and reset it by pressing and holding the reset button located on its back. Then turn it back on and check to see if the issue persists.
What does resetting the PS4 controller do? By resetting the PS4 controller, you refresh the connection between the controller and the console. This is a handy and easy troubleshooting method that can help with PS4 connecting (pairing) and charging problems.
This is how you can reset your controller:
- Locate the reset button on the back of your controller — it’s a small hole right under the L2 button.
- Grab a toothpick and hold down the reset button for a few seconds until the controller restarts
- Try to charge it again to test if the reset worked.
If you own an old controller, try replacing the battery as well.
Some users suggested that charging your PS4 controller upside down solved the problem for them. While this unusual workaround may not work for all users, do give it a shot to see if it works for you.
Fix 2 – Switch the charging port
If your PS3/ PS4 console won’t stay charged, maybe it’s time to use another charging port. If the current one is faulty, utilizing a different port should fix the problem instantly.
Fix 3 – Get a charging dock
If your PS4 controller is dead or there are no lights blinking, you may be experiencing a USB issue. It seems that the USB connection is the Achilles heel of PS4 consoles.
Many users reported that controllers often fail to charge via USB, and sometimes don’t even recognize the USB device.
To fix that, you need to buy a new PS4 charging dock, which charges the controller via the ports at the button, instead of the USB ports.
Fix 4 – Press the PS and Share buttons
- Press and hold the PS and Share button at the same time
- Wait until there’s a light flashing on the controller
- Release both buttons
- Connect your controller to the PS4 using the USB cable. Your controller should now be connected and charging.
Fix 5 – Check the charging cable and port
Make sure that the charging cable is not damaged in any way. Use a different cable to see if the controller charges — ideally a cable bought from Sony. If it works, then you need to replace your cable.
⇒ Important Note: If you use third-party cables, your PS4 controller may not charge properly. Using an official USB charging cable bought from Sony is a must.
Don’t forget to check the charging port on your PS4 controller as well. A faulty charging port could prevent your controller from charging.
Did any of these solutions work for you?
References:
- Pairing and Connecting DUALSHOCK 4, Sony Support.