Is your PS5 controller vibration acting up mid-game? That rumbling feedback suddenly vanishing when you're driving through dirt in Gran Turismo or getting shot in Call of Duty? Been there. My own DualSense went completely silent during a God of War boss fight last month – talk about ruining the immersion. So let's cut to the chase and get your controller's haptic feedback working again.
Before we dive deep into how to fix PS5 controller vibration issues, here's a brutal truth: sometimes it's a quick settings toggle, other times it's hardware failure. I'll show you how to diagnose both scenarios without wasting hours.
Why Your PS5 Controller Vibration Stopped Working
Vibration failures usually boil down to these culprits:
| Cause | How Common | Fix Complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Disabled vibration settings | Very common (60% of cases) | Easy (2 minutes) |
| Game-specific vibration bugs | Common (25% of cases) | Moderate |
| Outdated controller firmware | Common | Easy |
| Loose motor connectors | Less common | Technical (requires opening controller) |
| Burnt vibration motor | Rare (under 5%) | Replacement needed |
Real Talk About DualSense Vibration Motors
Having taken apart 7 faulty controllers, I can confirm Sony uses two vibration motors: a large eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor near the triggers for heavy rumble, and a smaller linear resonant actuator (LRA) near the touchpad for precise haptics. When both fail simultaneously, it's usually software. When one works but not the other? Likely hardware.
Quick Check: Navigate to Settings > Accessories > Controller > Vibration Intensity. If sliders are grayed out, your controller isn't detecting motors – bad sign.
Step-by-Step Fixes for PS5 Controller Vibration Problems
Try these in order – 80% of cases resolve in the first 3 steps:
Basic Software Fixes
- Controller Reset: Find the tiny hole near L2 trigger. Stick a SIM ejector tool in for 5 seconds. My friend Dave skipped this and wasted $70 on a new controller unnecessarily.
- Vibration Settings Check: Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Vibration Intensity Ensure both sliders aren't at zero. Some games override this though.
- Game Settings: Load the problematic game. Check its settings menu for "Haptic Feedback" or "Controller Vibration" options. NBA 2K24 famously disables these by default after updates.
Firmware and Connection Solutions
- Update Controller: Connect via USB-C > Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Wireless Controller Device Software. If it fails, try different cables – 3rd party cables often cause update failures.
- Bluetooth Re-pairing:
- Go to Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories
- Forget the controller
- Hold PS + Create buttons until light blinks blue
- Re-pair via USB
Deep System Troubleshooting
When vibration disappears in all games:
- Rebuild Database: Power off PS5 completely. Hold power button until second beep (7 seconds), connect controller via USB, select "Rebuild Database". Takes 2-10 minutes.
- Test on Another PS5: Borrow a friend's console. If vibration works there, your PS5's Bluetooth module may be failing.
Warning: Avoid "reset to factory settings" until you've exhausted other options. You'll lose all game saves without PS+ cloud backup.
Hardware Fixes for Stubborn PS5 Controller Vibration Issues
If software methods fail, here's what to check inside the controller (requires T8 security screwdriver):
| Component | Symptoms When Broken | Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Vibration Motor (ERM) | No heavy rumble, but subtle haptics work | $5-8 on Amazon |
| Haptic Engine (LRA) | No subtle vibrations (e.g. raindrops in Spider-Man) | $10-15 |
| Ribbon Cable Connectors | Intermittent vibration during movement | $2-3 (cable only) |
DIY Motor Replacement Guide
For the brave:
- Remove 4 screws under the faceplate (hidden under stickers)
- Gently pry case open starting from bottom
- Locate motors: ERM near triggers, LRA under touchpad
- Disconnect battery FIRST (orange ribbon cable)
- Unsnap motor connectors, replace components
- Reassemble carefully – pinch ribbon cables = $$$
Honestly? Unless you've repaired electronics before, pay the $25 labor at a repair shop. I messed up my first attempt and cracked the touchpad.
Game-Specific Vibration Troubles
Some notorious offenders:
| Game | Vibration Bug | Workaround |
|---|---|---|
| Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III | Vibration stops after respawning | Toggle "Controller Vibration" OFF/ON in settings |
| EA Sports FC 24 | No haptics during penalties | Disable "Adaptive Triggers" temporarily |
| Horizon Forbidden West | Intermittent rumble during cutscenes | Delete game saves (backup first!), reinstall |
PS5 Controller Vibration FAQs
Why did my PS5 controller vibration stop working suddenly?
Usually a software glitch after system updates. Check controller firmware first – Sony pushes silent updates that sometimes break compatibility.
Can water damage cause vibration failure?
Absolutely. Spilled soda on my controller last year – the ERM motor corroded within hours. If liquid exposure occurred, open it immediately and clean with 90% isopropyl alcohol.
How to differentiate between software and hardware vibration issues?
Test the controller in PS5's built-in tester: Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Test Input Device. If vibration works here but not in games, it's game-specific.
Does Sony repair vibration issues under warranty?
Only if purchased within 12 months AND no physical damage. They'll often blame "impact damage" to avoid coverage. Document your controller's condition beforehand.
Are third-party controllers less prone to vibration problems?
Actually worse. I tested Victrix and Nacon controllers – 3 out of 4 developed vibration faults faster than official DualSense. Stick with Sony hardware.
When to Give Up and Buy New
After trying every fix for PS5 controller vibration issues, consider replacement if:
- Controller disconnects randomly during vibration
- You smell burnt electronics near the triggers
- Vibration works only when controller is angled certain ways
Current DualSense prices fluctuate wildly. Pro tip: Wait for Days of Play sales in June – I snagged two controllers for $79 last year.
Final Thoughts From Experience
Look – Sony's haptic tech is amazing when working, but fragile. After fixing 20+ controllers, I recommend keeping vibration intensity at medium to prolong motor life. That "maximum intensity" setting? It's a motor killer in games like Returnal.
Most PS5 controller vibration issues are solvable without spending money. Start simple: reset controller, check settings, update firmware. Save the screwdriver adventures for last. Now go revive that immersive gameplay – your DualSense wasn't cheap!