10 Easy Steps to Disassemble an Xbox One Controller

The Xbox One Controller, a staple alongside its namesake console, is a reliable and intuitive gaming companion. However, like any electronic device, it may occasionally require maintenance or repairs. Fortunately, disassembling an Xbox One Controller is a relatively straightforward process, requiring only a few tools and a bit of patience. Whether you’re experiencing button sticking, unresponsive triggers, or simply want to give your controller a deep clean, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions to safely dismantle your controller.

Before embarking on this disassembly adventure, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a T8 Torx screwdriver, a small Phillips screwdriver, and a spudger or plastic opening tool. Additionally, a pair of tweezers can come in handy for handling small components. Ensure your workspace is well-lit and organized to avoid losing any tiny parts during the process.

Now that you’re equipped and ready, let’s dive into the disassembly. Begin by removing the battery cover and batteries if present. Next, locate the four T8 Torx screws on the back of the controller and carefully unscrew them. Once the screws are removed, gently pull the front and back panels apart, being mindful of any wires or ribbons connecting them. With the controller open, you now have access to its internal components and can proceed with further troubleshooting or repairs as needed.

Opening the Controller Safely

Opening your Xbox One controller safely requires careful attention to detail and a few simple tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it done:

Gather your tools: You’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver, a Torx T8 screwdriver, and a plastic spudger or thin pry tool.
Remove the battery cover: Slide the battery cover away from the controller’s body.
Remove the batteries: Take out the two AA batteries from the battery compartment.
Locate the controller screws: There are six screws on the back of the controller. Two of them are located above the battery compartment, and four are located around the outer edges of the controller.
Remove the back plate: Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws above the battery compartment. Then, use the Torx T8 screwdriver to remove the four screws around the outer edges of the controller.
Open the controller: Carefully lift the back plate away from the controller’s body, using the plastic spudger or thin pry tool to gently separate the two pieces.

Step	Tool
Remove battery cover	None
Remove batteries	None
Locate controller screws	None
Remove back plate (Phillips head)	Phillips head screwdriver
Remove back plate (Torx T8)	Torx T8 screwdriver
Open the controller	Plastic spudger or thin pry tool

Removing the Buttons and D-Pad

To remove the buttons and D-Pad, you will need to first remove the back cover of the controller. Once the back cover is removed, you will see the buttons and D-Pad held in place by screws. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws, and then you can carefully lift the buttons and D-Pad out of the controller.

Here are some additional tips for removing the buttons and D-Pad:

Be careful not to damage the buttons or D-Pad when removing them.
If you are having trouble removing a button or D-Pad, you can try using a pair of tweezers.
Once you have removed the buttons and D-Pad, you can clean them with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol.

Replacing the Buttons and D-Pad

To replace the buttons and D-Pad, simply follow the steps in reverse order. First, clean the buttons and D-Pad with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. Then, place the buttons and D-Pad back into the controller and secure them with screws. Finally, replace the back cover of the controller.

Button	Screw Size
A	T6
B	T6
X	T6
Y	T6
D-Pad	T6

Disconnecting the Thumbsticks and Triggers

This step requires careful attention to detail to avoid damaging the delicate components involved. The thumbsticks and triggers are secured by specialized screws that can be easily stripped if not handled correctly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to disconnecting these components:

1. **Locate the screws:** There are two screws on each thumbstick base and two on each trigger. These screws are typically small and black.
2. **Choose the right screwdriver**: Use a high-quality precision screwdriver that fits the screws snugly. A poorly fitting screwdriver can slip and damage the screws.
3. **Apply steady pressure:** Hold the screwdriver perpendicular to the screw and apply steady pressure while turning counterclockwise. Avoid applying excessive force, as this could strip the screws.
4. **Gently lift the component:** Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the thumbstick or trigger upwards. Avoid pulling or yanking, as this could damage the internal connectors.
5. **Disconnect the cable:** The thumbsticks and triggers are connected to the main controller board by thin cables. Gently disconnect these cables by pulling them straight out from the socket. Avoid bending or crimping the cables.

Note that while Xbox One controllers have standardized screws, different models and revisions may have variations in screw placement or design. Refer to the specific model’s repair guide or documentation for exact instructions.

Removing the Battery Pack

Before disassembling the Xbox One controller, it’s essential to remove the battery pack first. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Flip the Controller Over

Turn the controller upside down, revealing the battery compartment at the back.

Step 2: Locate the Battery Release Latch

On the battery compartment, you’ll find a small latch. This latch is located near the bottom of the compartment.

Step 3: Slide the Latch to the Right

Gently slide the latch to the right using your finger or a small screwdriver. This will release the battery pack.

Step 4: Pull Out the Battery Pack

Once the latch is released, gently pull the battery pack out of the compartment. It should slide out effortlessly. Be careful not to apply excessive force.

Additional Tips:

Tip	Details
Use a small flathead screwdriver	If you have trouble sliding the battery release latch with your finger, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently push it.
Avoid touching the battery terminals	When handling the battery pack, avoid touching the battery terminals as this can discharge the battery.
Dispose of used batteries properly	Once the batteries are depleted, dispose of them properly at a designated battery recycling center.

Separating the Motherboard from the Shell

After disassembling the triggers and bumpers, it’s time to separate the motherboard from the shell. Follow these steps carefully:

Locate the two Phillips #00 screws holding the motherboard to the front shell. Remove these screws.
Use a plastic spudger or opening tool to gently pry the front shell away from the back shell. Start from the bottom edge of the controller and work your way around.
Once the front shell is detached, carefully lift it up and away from the motherboard.
Disconnect the battery connector by gently pulling the black plastic tab on the connector. The battery will now be removed.
Identify the four ribbon cables connecting the motherboard to the back shell. These cables are delicate, so handle them with care:

Ribbon Cable	Description
Left rumble motor cable	Connects to the left rumble motor on the back shell.
Right rumble motor cable	Connects to the right rumble motor on the back shell.
Audio/microphone cable	Connects to the audio jack and microphone port on the back shell.
Power/eject cable	Connects to the power button, eject button, and LED lights on the back shell.

Use a pair of tweezers or your fingernails to gently lift the locking tabs on each ribbon cable connector and pull the cables out of their sockets.
The motherboard is now separated from the shell. Be careful not to damage the motherboard or the ribbon cables during this process.

Disconnecting the Ribbon Cables

Now that the battery pack, motherboard, and shoulder buttons are out of the way, it’s time to disconnect the ribbon cables. These cables are delicate and should be handled with care. Start by gently pulling up on the black tab that secures the ribbon cable to the motherboard. Once the tab is loose, carefully slide the ribbon cable out of the connector.

There are two ribbon cables that need to be disconnected: the one that connects the motherboard to the power board, and the one that connects the motherboard to the LCD screen. To disconnect the first cable, follow the same steps as before: pull up on the black tab and slide the cable out of the connector. To disconnect the second cable, you will need to use a spudger or a small screwdriver to carefully pry up the black tab. Once the tab is loose, carefully slide the ribbon cable out of the connector.

Steps for Disconnecting the Power Board Ribbon Cable

1. Locate the black plastic tab that secures the ribbon cable to the motherboard.
2. Use your fingernail or a plastic pry tool to gently lift the tab upward.
3. Once the tab is lifted, carefully slide the ribbon cable out of the connector.
4. Be careful not to damage the ribbon cable or the connector.

Steps for Disconnecting the LCD Screen Ribbon Cable

1. Locate the black plastic tab that secures the ribbon cable to the motherboard.
2. Use a spudger or a small screwdriver to carefully pry up the tab.
3. Once the tab is lifted, carefully slide the ribbon cable out of the connector.
4. Be careful not to damage the ribbon cable or the connector.

Removing the Bluetooth Module

The Bluetooth module is a small, black component that is located on the top of the controller. It is responsible for connecting the controller to your Xbox One console wirelessly. To remove the Bluetooth module, you will need to:

Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two screws that are located on the top of the controller.
Use a spudger to gently pry the top half of the controller away from the bottom half.
Use a pair of tweezers to remove the Bluetooth module from its connector.
Use a replacement Bluetooth module to replace the old one.
Insert the Bluetooth module into its connector.
Snap the top half of the controller back into place.
Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to tighten the two screws that secure the top half of the controller to the bottom half.

Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in removing the Bluetooth module:

Step	Description
1	Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to remove the two screws on the top of the controller.
2	Use a spudger to gently pry the top half of the controller away from the bottom half.
3	Use a pair of tweezers to remove the Bluetooth module from its connector.
4	Insert the Bluetooth module into its connector.
5	Snap the top half of the controller back into place.
6	Use a T8 Torx screwdriver to tighten the two screws that secure the top half of the controller to the bottom half.

Cleaning the Components

Once you have disassembled the controller, it’s time to clean the individual components. Follow these steps for a thorough cleaning:

Buttons

Use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to gently remove any dirt or debris from the buttons. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the buttons.

D-Pad

For the D-Pad, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the surface and the crevices between the buttons. Be careful not to damage the delicate rubber membrane beneath the buttons.

Thumbsticks

Remove the thumbsticks by pulling them straight up from the controller. Use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the base of the thumbsticks and the inside of the socket. Ensure that all dust and debris are removed to prevent stick drift.

Triggers and Bumpers

Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the triggers and bumpers. Gently wipe away any dirt or debris on the surface and the edges. Avoid using excessive force or pressure.

Body and Battery Pack

Wipe down the body and battery pack of the controller with a damp cloth or alcohol wipes. Be sure to remove any smudges, dirt, or fingerprints. Allow these components to dry completely before reassembling.

Reassembling the Xbox One Controller

Once you have cleaned all the components of your Xbox One controller, it’s time to put it back together. Follow these steps carefully to ensure that your controller is assembled correctly and functioning properly:

Align the rumble motors with the corresponding slots on the back of the controller’s faceplate.
Carefully place the back of the controller’s faceplate onto the front and secure it by tightening the screws.
Insert the battery pack into the compartment at the bottom of the controller and align the metal contacts.
Secure the battery pack in place with the supplied screws.
Connect the power button and the sync button to their respective ports on the circuit board.
Orient the D-pad and the buttons correctly and place them into their respective slots on the faceplate.
Secure the buttons and D-pad using the supplied screws.
Align the shoulder buttons with their designated slots on the controller’s shell and secure them.
Carefully assemble the thumbsticks by inserting each stick into its corresponding hole in the faceplate, lining up the grooves on the sticks with the corresponding guides. Gently push down on the thumbsticks to ensure they are securely seated.

Component	Secure with
Back of controller faceplate	Screws
Battery pack	Screws
Power button and sync button	Snap into place
D-pad and buttons	Screws
Shoulder buttons	Snap into place
Thumbsticks	Push into place

Finally, attach the battery cover to the bottom of the controller and secure it with the screws.

Your Xbox One controller is now fully reassembled and ready for use. Enjoy gaming!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re experiencing issues with your Xbox One controller, such as drift, button sticking, or connection problems, there may be a simple solution you can try before resorting to more drastic measures.

Checking for Physical Damage

Inspect the controller for any visible damage, such as cracked or torn parts. Ensure that all buttons and triggers are moving freely and not getting stuck.

Cleaning the Controller

Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the controller’s buttons and analog sticks. Use a soft cloth or compressed air to gently remove any buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals or liquids.

Updating the Firmware

Outdated firmware can sometimes cause compatibility issues or performance problems. Update the controller’s firmware by connecting it to your Xbox One and following the prompts.

Resetting the Controller

Resetting the controller can resolve certain button mapping errors or connection issues. Use a paperclip to press the small reset button on the back of the controller for 10 seconds.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth Issues

If you’re using a wireless controller, ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on both your console and controller. Check for any interference from other wireless devices or appliances.

Inspecting the Battery

Replace the batteries if the controller is running out of power. Use fresh, high-quality batteries for optimal performance.

Testing the USB Cable

If you’re using a wired controller, try a different USB cable to rule out any cable defects. Ensure that the cable is firmly connected to both the controller and console.

Calibrating Analog Sticks

Drifting analog sticks can be recalibrated using the Xbox Accessories app. Launch the app, select your controller, and follow the on-screen instructions.

Replacing Worn-Out Parts

If you’ve tried all the above steps and the issue persists, you may need to replace worn-out parts, such as the analog stick modules or buttons. Refer to the internet for detailed repair guides.

How to Take an Xbox One Controller Apart

Taking apart an Xbox One controller is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps outlined below, you can easily access the controller’s internal components for cleaning, repair, or modification.

Remove the battery cover. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw holding the battery cover in place. Carefully lift the cover off the controller.
Disconnect the battery. Grip the battery and pull it straight out of the controller.
Remove the front panel. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove the four screws holding the front panel to the rear panel. Carefully lift the front panel off the controller.
Disconnect the rumble motors. Carefully disconnect the rumble motors from the controller’s main board.
Remove the rear panel. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove the four screws holding the rear panel to the controller’s main board. Carefully lift the rear panel off the controller.