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How to Troubleshoot an Xbox Controller

If you notice your Xbox 360 controller is malfunctioning, your best bet is to try troubleshooting the issue before calling Microsoft for repairs or heading off to the store for a refund. While some issues do require repair or replacement, many problems are easily fixed within a few minutes of troubleshooting. If you're lucky, you'll have your Xbox 360 controller working again in no time at all.

Instructions

- 1
  Power off your Xbox 360, wait a couple minutes, and turn it on again by pressing the controller's center button. Pay attention to the ring of light around the center button; if it doesn't flash when you power on the console, you may need new batteries or to reconnect your controller.
- 2
  Replace the batteries in your wireless Xbox 360 controller by pushing the tab on the top of the controller and pulling the battery compartment out. Make sure the new batteries are inserted in the proper direction, and reconnect the battery compartment; it clicks back into place.
- 3
  Re-sync your wireless Xbox 360 controller to your console. Press the small round button next to the second memory unit port on the console. Then press the small round button on the top of the controller near the left shoulder button. Wait a few seconds for the controller to sync to the console; the ring of light around the center button will blink while this happens.
- 4
  Check your wired controller's connection. Disconnect it and look in the USB bay for any obstructions. Then reinsert the controller, making sure it's properly connected to one of the two USB ports on the front of the console.
- 5
  Recharge your controller if using a rechargeable battery pack according to their instructions. You may need to re-sync your controller after recharging.

Xbox 360