Annoyed when you are in the middle of an important quest or game and the message “Please reconnect controller” appears on the screen? While there are many reasons why a controller can stop working, you can fix it yourself in relatively easy ways. If the indicator light doesn't come on, your controller needs a new battery. If the indicator light is on but won't connect to the Xbox, read the second method. Finally, if everything you've done doesn't work, read the third method.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Fixing Battery and Power Problems
Step 1. Open and remove the battery
An empty battery is the most common problem that occurs when your controller stops working. Press the small button on the top of the battery pack to release it and grab your old battery.
Step 2. Replace the Battery
Use new AA batteries and do not mix old batteries with new ones.
Step 3. Charge the controller if you are using a rechargeable battery pack
In general, this type of battery pack can be recharged via a USB cable or with the default charger. Wait 1-3 hours before trying again.
- If you're using your Xbox to charge via a USB cable, make sure you've turned it on.
- If you recharge the controller using your Xbox 360, you can charge it as you play.
- Proper recharging process will cause the indicator light to turn red and will turn green when finished.
Step 4. Use a flashlight to examine the metal conductor located at the bottom of the battery pack
If your controller won't turn on, make sure the metal isn't dirty or rusted. You will have to clean it or buy a new battery pack if this problem occurs.
To clean the metallic conductor, use a dry cotton swab to rub the dirty or rusty part
Step 5. Tighten any loose or rocking battery packs
If your controller disconnects when it's shaken, it's possible that the battery pack you're using is loose. The easiest way to solve this problem is to buy a new one, or use plaster.
Using plaster is generally a temporary solution and will make it difficult when you need to replace the battery
Method 2 of 3: Removing Relationship Disorders
Step 1. Reconnect your controller after restarting the console
Turn off your Xbox and wait 5 seconds before turning it back on. Once powered on, connect your controller with the following steps:
- Press and hold the “X” button to turn on the controller.
- Press and release the “connect” button located on the front of your Xbox. This small button is located below the “Open Disc Tray” button.
- After 20 seconds, press the “Connect” button located at the top of your controller's battery pack.
- If your console light stops flashing, it's a sign that your controller and Xbox are connected.
Step 2. Other wireless devices may interfere with your controller
Although the Xbox controller can be used from a distance of 10 meters, this distance can be reduced when there is interference from radio waves emitted by other equipment. Get rid of any other wireless equipment that is between you and your Xbox for a better signal. Equipment that can interfere with, among others, are:
- Microwave
- Cordless phone
- Wireless router
- Laptop
Step 3. Get rid of the objects that are blocking you and your Xbox
While the wireless signal can work through certain objects, it can be interfered with by the iron and chrome found in the cabinet where you store the console.
Try placing your Xbox on the floor and connecting the controller from a closer distance to ensure the signal is not compromised
Step 4. Make sure the number of controllers connected is no more than 4
Xbox 360 can only be connected with 4 controllers at the same time. You cannot connect a new controller if there are already 4 connected.
- This number limit includes the controller connected by cable. Try to unplug the wired controller and reconnect your wireless controller.
- You can disconnect the controller from the Xbox by unplugging the battery pack or restarting your console.
Step 5. Buy a new controller
If you're already using a good battery and getting rid of all the obstacles you can get rid of, you should probably buy a new controller. Call an Xbox Service Center and ask if you can receive a free replacement controller.
Your console must be registered with Microsoft to get a replacement
Method 3 of 3: Reset Your Xbox 360
Step 1. If your controller is still having problems, you need to reset your Xbox
Although not recommended by Microsoft, there are people who claim to have success fixing their controllers this way. Contact Microsoft Services before attempting to reset your Xbox 360.
These methods are taken from several online communities and forums, not from Microsoft
Step 2. Press and hold the “sync” button located on the front of the console for 30 seconds
Do this while your console is on. The Xbox headlight will flash, spin, and turn off. Hold down the button until the light goes out.
Step 3. Unplug everything
Unplug the power cord, controller, and hard drive from your Xbox.
Step 4. Wait 5 minutes
After 5 minutes, plug back everything you unplugged and try to connect your controller in the ways mentioned in method 2.
Controller still can't connect? Try to contact Microsoft. If you're lucky, your Xbox 360 will be replaced for free
Tips
Use alkaline rechargeable batteries to save battery costs. Unfortunately, this type of battery cannot be recharged directly using your Xbox
Warning
- Even if it works, repairs and modifications to the battery pack that you do yourself can void the warranty.
- Do not bend the metal conductors that are inside the battery pack. Things can weaken or damage it.
- Do not use the cable to charge the controller if you are using regular AA batteries or an incompatible recharge pack.
