Table of Contents

Why Are My Joy-Cons Not Updating? A Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide

So, you’re staring at your Nintendo Switch, frustration mounting because your Joy-Cons refuse to update. You’re not alone! This is a common issue, and the reasons behind it can be varied. The most likely culprits are connectivity problems, low battery, third-party controllers, or a corrupted firmware. Let’s break down each of these reasons and explore potential solutions to get your Joy-Cons updated and back in the game.

Understanding the Update Process

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to understand how Joy-Cons update. The process is initiated through your Nintendo Switch console. The console sends firmware updates to the connected Joy-Cons via Bluetooth. Any interruption to this connection, or issues with the firmware itself, can halt the update.

Primary Reasons and Solutions

Here’s a detailed look at the common reasons your Joy-Cons might be resisting an update:

Connectivity Issues: This is the most frequent offender. A stable Bluetooth connection is crucial.
- Solution:
  - Ensure Joy-Cons are securely attached: Detach and reattach the Joy-Cons to the console, making sure they click into place correctly.
  - Proximity to the console: Keep the Joy-Cons close to the console during the update process, minimizing potential interference.
  - Wireless Interference: Move away from other electronic devices that emit wireless signals (routers, microwaves, Bluetooth speakers). These can disrupt the connection.
  - Restart the console: A simple restart can often resolve temporary connectivity glitches. Hold down the power button for a few seconds, then select “Restart.”
  - Check for obstructions: Make sure nothing is blocking the signal between the Joy-Cons and the console.
Low Battery: If your Joy-Cons have insufficient battery, the update might fail to start or complete.
- Solution:
  - Charge the Joy-Cons: Attach the Joy-Cons to the console and allow them to charge for at least 30 minutes before attempting the update again.
  - Use a charging grip: A charging grip allows you to charge the Joy-Cons separately while still playing in handheld mode.
Third-Party (Unofficial) Controllers: If you’re using Joy-Cons that aren’t officially licensed by Nintendo, they may not be compatible with the official firmware updates.
- Solution:
  - Verify controller authenticity: Check the packaging and controller itself for official Nintendo branding. If it’s a third-party controller, it likely won’t be able to update through the Nintendo Switch system.
  - Contact the manufacturer: Some third-party controllers have their own update methods. Consult the manufacturer’s website or manual for instructions.
Corrupted Firmware: In rare cases, the firmware on the Joy-Cons might be corrupted, preventing updates.
- Solution:
  - Reset the Joy-Cons: Locate the small SYNC button on the top of each Joy-Con (near the SR and SL buttons). Use a paperclip or similar object to press and hold the SYNC button for a few seconds. This will reset the controller.
  - Re-pair the Joy-Cons: After resetting, re-pair the Joy-Cons with the console. Go to “System Settings” > “Controllers and Sensors” > “Change Grip/Order” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Console System Update Required: Your console itself may need an update before it can update the Joy-Cons.
- Solution:
  - Check for system updates: Go to “System Settings” > “System” > “System Update”. If an update is available, download and install it.

Step-by-Step Update Instructions

Here’s a reminder of how to initiate the Joy-Con update process:

From the Home Menu, select “System Settings”.
Scroll down and select “Controllers and Sensors” on the left-hand side.
Select “Update Controllers”.
The console will search for updates and automatically install them.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the above solutions don’t work, consider these more advanced troubleshooting steps:

Test with different Joy-Cons: If possible, try updating a different set of Joy-Cons on the same console. This will help determine if the issue is with the specific Joy-Cons or the console itself.
Test the Joy-Cons on a different console: If you have access to another Nintendo Switch console, try updating the Joy-Cons there.
Contact Nintendo Support: If all else fails, contact Nintendo Support for assistance. They may have additional troubleshooting steps or be able to offer a repair or replacement. NOTE: Nintendo offers free Joy-Con repairs for drifting issues, even outside of warranty.

Preventing Future Issues

Keep your console and Joy-Cons updated regularly.
Handle your Joy-Cons with care to avoid physical damage.
Store your Joy-Cons in a safe place when not in use.
Clean your Joy-Cons regularly with a soft, dry cloth.

Joy-Con Drift and Updates

While updating Joy-Cons can sometimes temporarily alleviate Joy-Con drift, it’s not a permanent fix. Drift is usually caused by hardware issues (dust, wear and tear) within the control stick module.

The Future of Gaming and Education

As technology advances, understanding the technical aspects of our gaming devices becomes increasingly important. Organizations like the Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org, explore the intersection of gaming and education, promoting the use of games for learning and skill development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 FAQs to address common questions related to Joy-Con updates and related issues:

Can updating Joy-Cons fix drift? No, not permanently. Updating the Joy-Cons may temporarily improve drift, but it’s not a long-term solution. Drift is usually a hardware problem.
How long does a Joy-Con last? With normal use and proper care, Joy-Cons can last for several years. However, wear and tear, especially leading to drift, is a common issue. Their battery lasts for approximately 20 hours.
Do new Joy-Cons suffer from drift? Yes, newer Joy-Cons can still experience drift, although Nintendo claims to have made some “improvements” in later models.
Do OLED Joy-Cons work on old Switch? Yes, OLED Switch Joy-Cons are compatible with the original Nintendo Switch.
Why is my left Joy-Con not working? Check the connection, battery level, and for any physical damage. Try resetting and re-pairing the Joy-Con.
Why can’t I update my Nintendo? A network firewall or server issues on Nintendo’s end can prevent console updates.
Is Nintendo being sued for Joy-Con drift? While there have been lawsuits, some have been dismissed. Nintendo still offers free repairs for Joy-Con drift.
Why do Joy-Cons drift so easily? Joy-Con drift is primarily caused by dust and debris accumulating inside the control stick module, along with wear and tear on the internal components.
How common is Joy-Con drift? Studies suggest a significant percentage of original Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are affected by drift.
Will Nintendo Switch last for 10 years? With proper care, a Nintendo Switch can last for 6-10 years.
What year will Nintendo Switch end? Nintendo is still developing software for the Switch through at least March 2025.
Why are Joy-Cons so expensive? Joy-Cons contain a lot of technology in a small space, making them expensive to manufacture.
Can you overcharge a Joy-Con? No, Joy-Cons have built-in protections to prevent overcharging.
Do Joy-Cons lose battery when not in use? Yes, all batteries, including those in Joy-Cons, gradually lose charge over time, even when not in use.
Can you hard reset a switch controller? Yes, you can reset a Joy-Con by pressing the SYNC button once, then pressing any other button to power it on again.

Why are my joy cons not updating?