Is your gaming controller acting up, with stuck or sticky buttons disrupting your play? Many console gamers are familiar with the frustration of the sticky button syndrome caused mainly by the accumulation of dust, grime or beverage spills. Fortunately, getting sticky buttons working as new is easier than you think, and you can do it at home without spending a packet.
Start by isolating the issue and avoiding invasive cleaning if possible. Some controllers, especially those frequently used, accumulate dust and particle debris around and beneath button spaces. This commonly happens with remote controls for televisions, media players, and gaming consoles. The debris can cause the button to stick, making it necessary to clean the controller regularly. Incorrect cleaning can also cause stickiness, such as spraying cleaning agents directly onto the device leading to accumulation around and below buttons.
The easiest and safest method to get rid of minor stickiness or dirt is to use a microfiber cloth or cotton swab moistened in isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher). It is recommended not to use water as it potentially causes internal damage in case it seeps in. Start with dabbing at the button gently, then rub around and under its edges. This process helps to loosen or dissolve the dirt accumulated, easing the button’s stickiness.
Tilt the controller towards the direction of the button while cleaning, this will guide the dissolved dirt or any residual alcohol away from the internal components. It’s essential also to avoid excessive alcohol use that may seep into the device. Allow the controller to dry thoroughly before use; this may take some minutes, considering that alcohol evaporates quickly.
If the stickiness persists after the exterior cleaning, it may signify a deeper issue—a spill seeping into the controller or a faulty button. It might require more intensive cleaning or even replacement of the culprit button or the whole device if necessary. This step requires careful disassembly and reassembly of the controller.
Ensure you research the particular gaming controller’s disassembling process online or refer to the user’s manual, as each model has a specific sequence and tools required. Gather the recommended screwdrivers, pry bars, or other tools to avoid scrambling midway and damaging your device. You also need isopropyl alcohol, cotton swabs, a clean cloth, and disinfectant wipes, if necessary.
After disassembling the controller, identify the sticky button’s location and check for any visible dirt. CLR is a household product that works wonders on sticky buttons. Dip a cotton swab in CLR and use it to rub around the button in a circular motion. Rinally, leave the button to air dry overnight before reassembling the controller.
In case the stickiness resulted from a spill, clean the entire circuit board. Spills can leave sticky residues on the board that trigger a button to stick or act disharmoniously with the others. Apply some isopropyl alcohol onto a microfiber cloth then use it to wipe the circuit board gently.
Ensure to clean each part thoroughly. A toothpick or a needle can help clear tiny areas, corners, and holes, which may harbor dirt. While cleaning, be mindful of delicate electronics and wires to avoid dislodging or damaging any parts.
After cleaning, let all the components dry off entirely. Alcohol dries off quickly; however, it’s prudent to allow appropriate drying time to avoid locking in moisture during the reassembly process, which could lead to electrical shorts or corrosion over time.
The reassembly process should be slow and precise, ensuring every part returns to its original location. If you feel any resistance, double-check to ensure you are not forcing a part into the wrong place, which may cause irreparable damage.
Sometimes, all the cleaning might not unstick the button, indicating a mechanical failure. The button might have fallen off its spring, be worn out, or the contacts beneath it damaged. A close inspection should help diagnose this problem. In such a case, a replacement of the particular button, spring, or the entire face panel might be necessary.
While corruption on the contact surface of a button or switch is common, it’s cleaned by following the same procedures as cleaning a sticky button except for the specific focus on the silver or gold contact surface.
Ultimately, keeping your gaming controller clean is necessary to prevent sticky buttons. Regularly clean your device, particularly after a gaming session of ‘finger-licking’ snacks or drinks, pay attention to the buttons, thumbsticks, and trigger areas. Regular maintenance saves you from invasive cleaning or handling mechanical breakdowns down the line.
Remember, in case cleaning doesn’t resolve the stickiness, it could be a mechanical or software issue and you may need to consult a professional. Attempting to fix such issues if you lack necessary skills and knowledge might void your warranty or cause irreversible damage to your controller.
With regular and careful maintenance, you will ensure your controller’s longevity, keeping your gaming experience smooth and enjoyable.
