How To Fix The Nintendo Switch Controller Issue

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This guide will explore the frequent Switch Controller problems and provide practical solutions to keep your gaming experience smooth.

The straightforward solutions provided here will help you fix the issues and ensure you can quickly return to your gaming adventures.

The insights provided in this article will also help you regain control of your gaming experience and successfully conquer the controller blues once and for all.

So, grab the controllers, embark on a journey, and master the art of Nintendo controller maintenance.

Also, read: Nintendo Switch Right Controller Not Working

Why Is My Nintendo Switch Controller Not Working?

Table of Contents

There are a couple of reasons why the Nintendo Switch Controller may not work, and here are a few of those:

Nintendo Switch needs an update
Controller isn’t paired correctly
Low Battery

Joy-Con Drift
Physical Damage
Calibration Issue

Syncing Issues
Software Glitches

Easy Fixes: Nintendo Switch Controller Issue

You can resolve the Nintendo Switch Controller issue by systematically following these troubleshooting steps.

1. Check The Connections

While having Nintendo Switch Controller connection issues, first, re-check whether all the cables are securely connected. Make sure your controllers are correctly connected and synchronized with the console. If they aren’t, the console will disconnect or not respond.

To fix the connection issue, read through this detailed guide.

It is equally important to check the physical connections to ensure the USB charging cable is tightly plugged into both the controller and the dock.

Also, make sure the controller is correctly seated in the dock and remember to check for the potential sources of interference and move them away from the console.

2. Restart The Switch And Controller

If the connections seem fine, restart the Nintendo Switch and the controller.

Press and hold the Switch’s Power Button for at least three seconds, then select ‘Power Options’ and ‘Restart.’

For the controller, unplug it from the dock, wait a moment, then plug it back in.

Restarting both devices can clear the temporary glitches and refresh their connections.

3. Power Cycle The Controller

Power cycling the controller can resolve minor issues. This can be helpful as power cycling the router will reset all network connections and reinitialize all its settings.

First, save any unsaved data.
Then, unplug the USB charging cable from the controller.

Next, press and hold the sync button on the controller until the lights start flashing.
Wait 30-40 seconds, then plug the USB charging cable back in and try connecting the controller again.

4. Update The Controller Firmware

keeping the controller’s firmware up-to-date will improve the wireless connectivity and the overall stability of the controllers. Also, outdated controller firmware is known to cause connection issues or other glitches with the controller.

Also, firmware updates introduce new features or enhancements to the controllers and improve the overall functionality.

If the issue persists, it’s possible the controller’s firmware needs an update. Here’s how to do it:

Go to System Settings on the Switch, and select System.

Then, choose System Update.

If an update is available for the controller, you will be prompted to install it. Install the update and check.

5. Check The Controller’s Battery

If the controller’s battery is dead, it won’t connect. Charge the controller by attaching it to the console while the console is attached to an AC adapter or resting in the dock.

Ensure that both controllers are securely attached by sliding them down the console’s side rails from the top until they click into place on either side of the device screen.

Also, checking the battery charge level in the console’s Controller will help to identify the issue with the battery charge indicator.

Ensure you are checking the battery life, and replacing a defective battery will help you.

6. Check For System Updates

If your Switch needs an update, it may cause issues with the controller. Ensure your Nintendo Switch has the latest system firmware update installed, as it includes bug fixes or issues that are highly likely to affect the controllers’ functionality.

This is how you can update the system firmware and resolve the underlying problems that are causing controller-related issues:

Go to the Home Menu.
Select System Settings, then select System.

Next, select System Update.

If any update is available, it will download automatically.

7. Check For Physical Damage

If the controller has been physically damaged, it may not function properly.

Look for signs of physical damage, such as cracks, dents, or missing parts on the Joy-Con or other controllers. Damaged components can cause connectivity issues or malfunction.

Also, look for wear and tear and signs of excessive damage, as these can lead to component degradation.

8. Check The Maximum Number Of Paired Controllers

A maximum of eight wireless controllers can be connected to a Nintendo Switch. So, check for the maximum number of controllers that can be used simultaneously on the Switch and ensure that the controller is not overloaded or experiencing any compatibility issues.

So, using more than the recommended number of controllers can lead to connectivity issues, lags, or even controller malfunctions.

You can check your owner’s manual to ensure you have connected only a few controllers. This will avoid overloading the System and reduce controller-related problems.

9. Contact Nintendo Support

If none of the above troubleshooting steps resolve the issue, the controller is likely faulty and needs to be repaired.

Contact Nintendo support for assistance with the repair process.

Once the repair is done, you should be able to get your Nintendo Switch controller working again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why Does My Switch Keep Disconnecting?

The Switch can keep disconnecting due to wireless interference or if the controller is out of range.

2. What Should I Do If My Controller’s Buttons Are Not Working?

If my controller’s buttons aren’t working properly, check the controller for signs of visible damage or debris around the buttons and then try to resync it with the console. If the buttons aren’t responding, then the controller needs repair or replacement.

3. Can I Use Third-Party Controllers With My Nintendo Switch?

Yes, many third-party controllers are compatible with Nintendo Switch, but you need to check their compatibility and performance reviews for reliability.