The launch of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S have not been without issue. From a lack of supply to various other issues, it has not been smooth sailing for the next generation of gaming consoles. It looks like there’s another problem looming on the horizon for the PS5 DualSense controllers. A few users have reported drifting issues with the PS5 DualSense controller. In a new video posted recently, the lads over at iFixit have torn down a DualSense controller to highlight the potential causes of drift. You can check out the video below.
From what we can see, it looks like the analogue sticks on the DualSense could be causing the problem. Manufactured by a company called APLS and used in almost all major controllers, these modules could be the potential cause. The operating lifecycle of the RKJXV analogue joystick module is capped off at 2 million cycles. The centre push function is rated at 500,000 clicks. According to the iFixit team, this works out to about a meagre 400 hours.
The team then goes on to talk about the potentiometers on the DualSense. They state that they could be the main cause of the drifting. The springs on these modules can stretch out and trick the controller into creating a new neutral position. This fools the DualSense into thinking the player is moving when they are not. Other causes could include particles of food, dust and other contaminants that may get lodged in the crevices.
The team at iFixit discuss a few fixes for the controller. But, it looks like you will need to have a bit of soldering knowledge to even attempt to fix the DualSense. We recommend you take the controller to an official Sony licensed dealer to see if they can fix it under warranty. Or, you may have to purchase a new DualSense controller if the problem is unfixable.