How to Fix a Guitar Hero 3 Controller

Check for manufacturing defects. If you have purchased your Guitar Hero controller very recently, it may have such a defect. These usually involve malfunctioning or missing parts. If this is the case, you can resolve the issue by returning the controller where you originally bought it. Have the receipt in hand when you go to return the defective controller. However, if you have had your controller for a while, you will need to continue with these troubleshooting steps.

Diagnose the problem. Start the game and attempt to play a song in "Easy" mode. Try to determine whether it is the fret buttons or the strum bar that is not responding. Also try using the whammy bar. If any of these buttons does not work, you will know where to focus your repair efforts.

If the problem is the fret buttons, try cleaning them thoroughly and checking the wires to the circuit board. If the wires have become loose, try using electrical tape to hold them in place.

If the problem is the strum bar, check the hinges, as this is also a common problem. If one of the hinges has been misplaced or distorted, you will have to purchase a new hinge from a hardware or electronics store.

If the problem is a wobbly whammy bar, use a rubber band to keep it in place.