How to fix an Xbox controller that's not syncing

You’re ready to play, but your Xbox® controller won’t connect—and no matter how many times you hit the sync button, nothing happens. Whether it’s flashing lights or no lights at all, it’s frustrating when your controller won’t pair with your console.

At Asurion, we know gaming because many of us are gamers ourselves. Our experts help customers with syncing issues like this every day, and we’ve got a few quick tips to get you back in the game.

Check your controller batteries

Before anything else, check the power.

• Make sure your batteries aren’t dead or low
• Try replacing them or using a different battery pack
• If you're using a rechargeable controller, plug it in and give it a few minutes to charge

Resync the controller to your console

Try pairing the controller again.

1. Turn on your Xbox console
2. Press and hold the Xbox button on the controller until it lights up
3. Press the Pair button on the console (on Series X|S it’s next to the USB port; on Xbox One it’s near the disc slot)
4. Within 20 seconds, press and hold the Pair button on top of the controller until the Xbox button flashes
5. When the light stays solid, the controller is synced

Use a USB cable to connect

Wired connections can force a sync if wireless pairing fails.

1. Plug your controller into the console using a USB-C or micro-USB cable
2. Wait a few seconds—the controller should vibrate or light up
3. Once it's connected, you can remove the cable and use the controller wirelessly

Restart your console

A fresh boot can reset the connection.

1. Hold the Xbox power button for 10 seconds until the console turns off
2. Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on
3. Try syncing the controller again

Update your controller firmware

Outdated software can sometimes cause syncing issues.

1. Go to Settings > Devices & connections > Accessories
2. Select your controller
3. Choose … then Firmware version > Update now
4. Follow the on-screen steps

Try syncing to another device

If your controller won’t sync to your console, test it with another device:

• Connect it to another Xbox
• Pair it with a PC using Bluetooth
• If it works elsewhere, the issue might be your console—not the controller. If that’s the case, stop by your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion for a free device diagnostic.

FAQ

Why won’t my Xbox controller sync to the console?

It could be low battery, wireless interference, or outdated firmware. Try resyncing, using a USB cable, or restarting your console.

How do I know if my Xbox controller is syncing?

When syncing, the Xbox button flashes rapidly. Once connected, it stays lit. If it keeps flashing, the sync didn’t go through.

Can I use my Xbox controller while it’s charging?

Yes, you can use it wired while it charges via USB. This can also help force a sync.

What if my controller works on another device?

If it syncs with another Xbox or a PC but not yours, your console might have a hardware or software issue.

What should I do if none of these steps work?

If your controller still won’t sync, visit a uBreakiFix® by Asurion for a free device diagnostic. Our experts can help identify the issue and get you back to gaming.