How to Force Restart Your PS4 Controller: A Comprehensive Guide
The dreaded moment when your PS4 controller stops responding can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re deep into a game. Fortunately, there’s a simple method to force restart your controller, often resolving connection and functionality issues quickly. The primary way to force restart your PS4 DualShock 4 controller involves using a small, pointed object to press the reset button located on the back of the controller. Here’s how you do it:
- Power Down: If possible, start by powering down your PlayStation 4 console. This isn’t always necessary for a controller reset but can help in troubleshooting if the issue persists.
- Locate the Reset Hole: Turn your DualShock 4 controller over. You’ll see a tiny, recessed hole near the left shoulder button (L2). This hole houses the reset button.
- Prepare Your Tool: Take an unfolded paperclip, a SIM card ejector tool, or any other small, pointed object. Avoid using anything too sharp that could damage the button or the controller.
- Press and Hold: Gently insert the pointed tool into the hole. You should feel a slight click as you press the button inside. Hold this button down for at least 5-6 seconds.
- Release and Wait: Remove the tool and wait a few seconds. This allows the controller to fully reset.
- Re-Sync: After the reset, you’ll need to resync your controller to the PS4. Connect the controller to the console using a USB cable, press the PS button.
By following these steps, you have effectively forced a restart of your PS4 controller, which should resolve many common problems such as unresponsive buttons or connectivity issues. If the problem persists, consider trying the troubleshooting tips below or explore the FAQs for further assistance.
Why Would You Need to Force Restart?
Force restarting your PS4 controller can resolve a range of issues. These commonly include:
- Unresponsive buttons: A button that’s no longer working or reacting inconsistently.
- Connectivity problems: When your controller won’t connect to the PS4 or keeps disconnecting.
- Stuck inputs: When a button appears to be pressed even when you aren’t touching it.
- Strange behavior: Unusual blinking lights or erratic actions.
A force restart is essentially a way of giving your controller a clean slate, clearing any temporary glitches and allowing it to reconnect to your PS4 properly. This is often the first troubleshooting step to take.
Troubleshooting After a Force Restart
If a force restart doesn’t solve the problem, there are other potential issues to examine. Here are some troubleshooting steps:
Battery Check
A dead or low battery is a frequent cause of controller malfunctions. Ensure your controller is properly charging and that it’s receiving adequate power. You can check the controller’s battery life in the PS4 Quick Menu. If you suspect a faulty battery, it might need replacing.
USB Cable and Port Issues
If using a USB cable for connection, make sure that the cable and port are working properly. Try using a different USB cable and a different USB port on your PS4 to rule out these as the source of the issue. Sometimes, a faulty cable can prevent the controller from charging or connecting correctly.
PS4 System Software
Check to make sure your PlayStation 4’s system software is up to date. Sometimes, outdated software can cause compatibility issues with controllers. Go to Settings > System Software Update to check for and install any available updates.
Controller Damage
If your controller has been dropped, bumped, or exposed to liquids, the problem might be physical damage. Inspect the controller carefully for any visible signs of damage. Internal components could be affected, requiring repair or replacement of the controller.
Bluetooth Issues
If your controller continues to disconnect wirelessly, there could be interference with other Bluetooth devices. Ensure there are no devices nearby that could be interfering with the signal. You can attempt to resync the controller by putting the console into Bluetooth pairing mode and then pressing the SHARE and PlayStation buttons on the controller until the light bar flickers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional information about PS4 controller issues and solutions:
1. What do I do if the reset button doesn’t work?
If the reset button doesn’t work, try a different pointed tool, ensure you are pressing and holding the button for at least 5-6 seconds, and then attempt resyncing your controller. If the issue remains, it’s possible you have a hardware problem with your controller and should contact PlayStation support for further help.
2. Can I reset the PS4 controller without a paperclip?
Yes, you can use a SIM card ejector tool, a thumbtack, or any other small, pointed object that fits in the hole. Just ensure it is not too sharp to avoid damaging the internal components.
3. How do I resync my PS4 controller?
To resync your PS4 controller, connect it to the console using a USB cable, press the PS button, and it will automatically pair. If it doesn’t pair automatically, press and hold the SHARE button and the PlayStation button for 5 seconds until the lightbar begins to flicker rapidly to enter Bluetooth pairing mode, then connect through the PS4’s Bluetooth devices list.
4. Why is my PS4 controller blinking white and not connecting?
A blinking white light usually means the controller is either not connected to the PS4, or the battery is critically low. Try charging your controller fully and then resyncing it to the console.
5. How do I reset my PS4 from Safe Mode?
To reset your PS4 from Safe Mode, press and hold the power button on the console until you hear it beep twice. Then select “Initialise PS4” to wipe all data and restore the system to its factory settings. Note that this will erase all user data, so back it up beforehand.
6. How long does a dead PS4 controller take to charge?
A completely drained PS4 controller will take about 1 to 1.5 hours to charge halfway and approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to charge fully.
7. How do I fix a sticky button on my PS4 controller?
Use a cotton swab dampened with rubbing alcohol to gently clean around and inside the sticky button crevices. Press the button several times to work the alcohol and remove any stuck debris.
8. How do I factory reset my PS4 controller?
A PS4 controller does not have a separate factory reset option. The reset button and resync procedures explained in this article are the closest thing to a factory reset that you can do.
9. What does it mean when the light bar on my PS4 controller is orange?
A blinking orange light on your PS4 controller means that it is charging while the console is in rest mode. If the light isn’t showing orange, and the controller is not charging, make sure the supply power to the USB ports is enabled in the PS4 power saving settings.
10. What do the different colors on the PS4 controller light mean?
The controller lightbar is used to identify the player. Player 1 is blue, player 2 is red, player 3 is green, and player 4 is pink. The other main color of interest is orange which indicates charging in rest mode.
11. Can I use my phone as a PS4 controller?
Yes, you can use your phone as a PS4 controller using the PS Remote Play app. This app allows you to control your PS4 or PS5 using your mobile device and an on-screen controller.
12. How do I reconnect my PS4 controller after disconnecting it?
Connect the controller to the console via USB, then press the PS button on the controller to pair it. If it doesn’t pair automatically, you can put the controller into pairing mode and connect it via the PS4’s Bluetooth device list as mentioned above.
13. Is my PS4 controller completely dead if it won’t turn on?
Not necessarily. If your controller won’t turn on, try charging it fully with a known working USB cable. If it still doesn’t turn on after charging, there may be a battery or internal hardware issue.
14. Can I restart my PS4 without a controller?
Yes, you can turn the PS4 on and off using the power button on the front of the console. You can also put the console into rest mode using the same power button.
15. What causes my PS4 to not turn on even though it is plugged in?
Reasons for a PS4 not turning on can vary. It could be due to issues with the hard drive, software, power source, or a malfunctioning power supply. Troubleshooting should involve testing different power sources and cables. If you still have problems with your console, professional repair service might be needed.
By addressing these common queries and providing detailed troubleshooting steps, you should now be well-equipped to handle most PS4 controller issues and, hopefully, get back to gaming in no time.