Microsoft Expands Xbox Controller Repair Scheme With Video Guides

Controller drift, faulty buttons, and just a general slowing down of your game peripherals are things that no gamer should endure, yet it happens to the best of us. Instead of enabling users to chuck it out and get a new one every time, Microsoft is introducing a few new consumer- and eco-friendly options that will save you a buck or two.

The tech giant now offers official repair and replacement parts for the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and the standard Xbox Wireless Controller. 

The available parts include top cases, button replacement sets, and inner circuit boards with new potentiometers to fix stick drift—an issue that has plagued some controllers.

Of course, you’re not advised to just go to town on your controller and rip it apart. Microsoft has also launched a series of videos and guide tutorials that will walk you step by step on how to dismantle and fix up your device with its new parts. The instructionals are also suited for people of varying skill levels and should essentially be quite straightforward.

For the standard Wireless Controller, fixing stick drift requires patience in wire-running and costs US$35 for the Replacement PCBA and Motor Assembly. While a new circuit board will set you back US$49.90, a more wallet-friendly option as opposed to a whole new controller that can go up to US$180.

According to Ars Technica, Microsoft’s decision to offer official parts and repair options follows an agreement with activist shareholders in 2021, which called for more consumer support in addressing common hardware problems. This move is part of the company’s effort to empower users to handle repairs at home and reduce unnecessary waste.

[via Ars Technica and Hacakaday, screenshots via Xbox Support]