If you are a Nintendo Switch owner, you may have experienced the frustrating issue of Joycon drift. This is when your Joycon controller registers movement even when you are not touching the joystick. This can make playing your favorite games nearly impossible. But don’t worry, there are several ways to fix Joycon drift.
What Causes Joycon Drift?
Before we dive into how to fix Joycon drift, let’s discuss what causes it. Joycon drift is typically caused by dust or debris getting into the joystick mechanism. Over time, this can cause the joystick to register movement even when it’s not being touched. Sometimes, Joycon drift can also be caused by the wear and tear of regular use.
Calibrate Your Joycon
The first step in fixing Joycon drift is to try calibrating your Joycon. To do this, go to System Settings on your Nintendo Switch, then select Controllers and Sensors. From there, select Calibrate Control Sticks and follow the on-screen instructions. This may fix the issue if it is caused by a minor calibration problem.
Clean Your Joycon
If calibrating your Joycon doesn’t work, the next step is to clean it. Start by turning off your Nintendo Switch and detaching the Joycon. Use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or debris that may be inside the joystick mechanism. You can also use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean out any stubborn debris.
Replace the Joystick
If cleaning your Joycon doesn’t fix the issue, you may need to replace the joystick. You can purchase replacement joysticks online or from a local electronics store. To replace the joystick, you’ll need to open up the Joycon using a small screwdriver and carefully remove the old joystick. Then, attach the new joystick and reassemble the Joycon.
Send Your Joycon for Repair
If you are not comfortable with opening up your Joycon or replacing the joystick, you can send it to Nintendo for repair. Nintendo offers a free repair service for Joycon drift, even if your warranty has expired. To send your Joycon for repair, go to Nintendo’s support website and follow the instructions.
Prevent Joycon Drift
Now that you know how to fix Joycon drift, you may be wondering how to prevent it from happening in the first place. One way to prevent Joycon drift is to regularly clean your Joycon using the methods mentioned above. You can also purchase Joycon covers or grips to protect your Joycon from dust and debris. Finally, try to avoid playing your Nintendo Switch in dusty or humid environments.
FAQs About How to Fix Joycon Drift
Q: How long does it take to repair Joycon drift?
A: The repair process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the volume of repairs Nintendo is currently handling.
Q: Can I fix Joycon drift myself?
A: Yes, you can fix Joycon drift yourself by calibrating or cleaning your Joycon, or by replacing the joystick. However, if you are not comfortable with these methods, it’s best to send your Joycon for repair.
Q: Will Nintendo charge me for Joycon drift repair?
A: No, Nintendo offers a free repair service for Joycon drift, even if your warranty has expired.
Q: Can I still play my Nintendo Switch while my Joycon is being repaired?
A: Yes, you can still play your Nintendo Switch using a different controller while your Joycon is being repaired.
Q: How can I contact Nintendo about Joycon drift repair?
A: You can contact Nintendo about Joycon drift repair by visiting their support website, or by calling their customer support hotline.
Conclusion
Joycon drift can be a frustrating issue for Nintendo Switch owners, but there are several ways to fix it. You can try calibrating or cleaning your Joycon, or you can replace the joystick. If you are not comfortable with these methods, you can send your Joycon for repair. By following these tips, you can fix Joycon drift and get back to enjoying your favorite games on your Nintendo Switch.