How to fix a PlayStation Move controller that won't turn on

You're all ready to jump into a PlayStation VR game, but when you go to turn on your Move controller, nothing happens. No lights, no tracking — nothing. Before setting out to find a new Move controller, there are a few things you can try to get the faulty one working again.

Give your Move controller a long charge

It seems obvious, but your Move controller might just have a dead battery. Maybe the USB cable wasn't properly plugged in, or maybe your PS4 wasn't set to Rest Mode — if the PS4 is completely turned off, its USB ports won't provide power.

Turn your PS4 on or set it to Rest Mode, securely plug the USB to Mini USB cable into the PS4 and the Move controller, and let it charge for at least a few hours. If it turns on after charging, you'll know it was just a depleted battery. If it still doesn't turn on, try the next step.

Reset your Move controller

If your Move controller doesn't turn on after being charged, it might just be in need of a reset. Thankfully, Sony was wise enough to place a small reset button on the back.

Reset the controller with a paperclip.

You will need a pin, a paperclip, or a SIM-card tool in order to reach the button. Just press and hold for a few seconds before releasing.

Will your Move controller still not turn on after a reset? Time to take a look at the inside.

Check the inner connections

The Move controller uses ribbons in its internal workings — some are detachable and might have come loose in all the action. Here's how to remove the back of the Move controller and check the connections. You will need a Philips #0 screwdriver.

  1. Loosen the four screws on the back of the Move controller.

    Loosen the four screws.

  2. Remove the back plate.

    Remove the back cover.

  3. Check the white ribbon attached to the light globe — it should be soldered, so if it is detached you'll know where the problem lies.

  4. Check the battery connection. If it is detached or loose, reattach it.

    Check the connections.

If everything looks attached and where it should be, you might have a battery that doesn't hold a charge.

Order a new battery

The final solution to a Move controller that won't turn on is ordering a new battery. Amazon sells a great aftermarket solution that will fit the connection inside your Move controller.

See at Amazon

Here's how to replace the battery in your Move controller.

  1. Loosen the four screws on the back of the Move controller.

    Loosen the four screws.

  2. Remove the back plate.

    Remove the back cover.

  3. Lift the battery out of its cradle.

    Lift the battery out of its cradle.

  4. Unplug the battery connection using a flat screwdriver or other prying tool.

    Pry the connection out of its socket.

  5. Plug the new battery into the socket.

    Plug the new battery into the socket.

  6. Re-seat the battery into the cradle.

  7. Replace the back cover.

    Replace the back cover.

  8. Tighten the four screws.

    Tighten the four screws.

Your Move controller

Did you get your malfunctioning Move controller working again? Let us know in the comments section.

If you didn't get it working again, you can always order a new one!

See at Amazon

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