PS5 controller won't update? Try these fixes

⚡Fast fix

• Cable check: Use a data transfer cable, not a charging-only cable.
• Hard reset: Hold the reset button at the back of the controller for at least five seconds.
• Bluetooth® reconnect or re-pairing: Reconnect your controller with your console after the reset.
• Console software update: Install the latest software version of PlayStation® 5 before trying the controller firmware update.

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Your PS5® says there’s an update waiting for the DualSense® wireless controller, so you plug it in, follow the prompt, and expect to be done in a minute or two. Instead, the update won’t start, gets stuck, or throws an error—and suddenly a routine update is standing between you and your game.

We’ve helped troubleshoot plenty of controller and console issues at Asurion, and we know nobody wants to spend game time fighting with an update. Here’s what we’d try to get the DualSense update moving and the controller back in your hands.

Check your cable and USB port first

The USB cable you’re using to update controller firmware could be the problem. Not all USB cables can transfer data. Some are for charging only, so make sure yours supports data transfer.

While you can update your PS5 controller wirelessly over Bluetooth, a wired connection is the only way to test whether the cables or USB ports you’ve been using are the cause of a DualSense update error.

Connect the controller directly to the PS5’s front USB port using the cable. If the controller isn’t detected, try the rear ports. You can also check the USB ports for dust or visible damage. If the problem persists, try other advanced ways of troubleshooting a faulty PS5 USB port.

Reset your PS5 controller manually

Is your DualSense firmware update stuck, even after troubleshooting USB cables and ports? Resetting your PS5 controller can resolve minor connection issues and software glitches without erasing pairing settings. Here’s how to reset a PS5 controller:

1. Turn off your console and disconnect the controller from the USB data cable.
2. Look for a PS5 controller reset button at the back of your DualSense. It’s inside a pinhole next to the Sony® logo.
3. Use a paper clip or a similar tool to press and hold the button for five seconds.

Re-pair your controller after resetting

After resetting your DualSense, you want to establish a fresh controller-console connection before you try a firmware update again. If the old controller pairing is causing connection issues, removing it from your PS5 can help prevent another failed update.

1. Open Settings on your console.
2. Go to Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories.
3. Look for the controller you want to forget, select it, then choose Delete.
4. Select OK in the pop-up that’ll appear.

Once you’ve unpaired your DualSense, reconnect it using a USB data cable.

1. Connect your PS5 controller to your console using the cable.
2. Press the PS button to turn on the controller.
3. Once a light bar blinks and the player LED indicator appears, unplug the controller and try updating its firmware again.

PS5 controller not connecting or pairing? A controller that won’t connect at all to the console, even after a hard reset, thorough cable check, and multiple pairing attempts, could point to a technical issue that requires expert help.

Update your PS5 system software

Before trying to update a PS5 controller, make sure the console is running the latest system software. An outdated console can cause compatibility issues when installing a newer controller firmware version.

1. Go to Settings > System > System Software on your PS5 console.
2. Select System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software.

If the usual way of updating your PS5’s system software doesn’t fix the controller firmware issue, try a PS5 system update in Safe Mode.

1. Turn off your PS5.
2. Press and hold the power button for at least seven seconds to enter Safe Mode.
3. Connect the controller to the console with a USB cable, then press the PlayStation button on the controller.
4. Go to Update System Software.

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FAQ

My PS5 controller isn’t updating. What can I do to fix this?

If your PS5 controller isn’t working or updating, try a different data cable, reset the controller, and update your console software version.

How do I reset PS5 controller firmware?

You can’t manually reset firmware, but resetting your DualSense can resolve minor glitches and controller sync issues.

How do I fix PS5 controller issues?

Update its firmware when prompted or manually in your console’s settings.

How can I update the PlayStation 5 controller on PC?

Use the PlayStation Accessories app on your PC to check for controller firmware updates.