How to Take Apart an Xbox One Controller

Tools Needed

To successfully take apart an Xbox One controller, you will need a few tools to make the process easier and more efficient. Having these tools on hand will ensure that you can disassemble and reassemble the controller with ease. Here are the essential tools you will need:

Small Screwdriver Set: A set of small screwdrivers with different sizes of flathead and Phillips-head tips is necessary for removing the screws that hold the controller together. This will help prevent damage to the screw heads and make the process much smoother.
Plastic Pry Tools: Plastic pry tools are essential for safely prying open the controller’s casing without scratching or damaging it. These tools are designed to be gentle on the surface and can be used to carefully remove the outer shell without leaving any marks.
Tweezers: Tweezers are handy for handling small components and cables inside the controller. They allow for precise movements and help prevent any accidental damage to sensitive parts.
Microfiber Cloth: A microfiber cloth is useful for wiping away any dust or debris that may have accumulated inside the controller. It is important to keep the components clean before reassembling them to ensure optimal performance.
Cotton Swabs: Cotton swabs can be used to clean hard-to-reach areas of the controller, such as the crevices around the buttons and triggers. They are effective in removing dirt and grime, leaving the controller looking and feeling fresh.
Isopropyl Alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol is an excellent cleaning agent that can help remove stubborn stains or sticky residue from the controller’s surfaces. Be sure to use a high purity level (90% or higher) to avoid any damage to the internal components.

Having these tools at your disposal will ensure that you have everything you need to take apart an Xbox One controller successfully. By using the right tools and following the steps carefully, you can easily disassemble and clean your controller, or even swap out parts if needed.

Step 1: Remove the Battery Pack

Before you can begin disassembling your Xbox One controller, you must first remove the battery pack. Follow these steps to complete this initial step:

Turn off the Xbox One: Make sure your Xbox One console is turned off before you begin to avoid any potential electrical hazards.
Flip the controller over: Hold the controller with the front facing down, and locate the battery pack on the back.
Press the battery pack release button: This button is typically located near the top of the battery pack. Press and hold it down to release the pack.
Remove the battery pack: While holding down the release button, slide the battery pack out of the controller. Be gentle to avoid damaging any of the connectors.

Once you have successfully removed the battery pack, you are ready to proceed to the next step in disassembling your Xbox One controller. The battery pack removal allows for easier access to the screws and internal components of the controller.

Remember, always handle the battery pack and other components with care to prevent any damage or injury. If the battery pack is damaged or leaking, avoid touching it and dispose of it properly according to your local regulations.

Step 2: Remove the Screws

Once you have removed the battery pack from your Xbox One controller, the next step is to remove the screws that hold the controller together. Follow these steps to remove the screws:

Gather the appropriate tools: Use a small screwdriver set that includes the necessary sizes of flathead and Phillips-head tips.
Identify the screw locations: Look for the screws located on the back of the controller, typically near the grips or trigger buttons.
Remove the screws: Carefully and gently unscrew each screw, making sure not to strip or damage them. Keep the screws in a safe place to avoid losing them.
Check for hidden screws: Some controllers may have additional screws located under stickers or warranty stickers. Remove these as well if applicable.

It is important to note that not all Xbox One controllers are exactly the same, so the number and location of the screws may vary slightly. Make sure to observe your specific controller carefully to determine the precise placement of the screws.

By removing the screws, you are now one step closer to opening up your Xbox One controller and gaining access to its internal components. Proceed to the next step to discover how to safely open the controller without causing any damage.

Step 3: Open the Controller

After removing the screws from your Xbox One controller, the next step is to open it up. Follow these steps to safely open the controller without causing any damage:

Use plastic pry tools: Take a plastic pry tool and gently insert it into the seam between the front and back halves of the controller. Start at one corner and carefully work your way around the edges, gradually prying the controller open.
Apply even pressure: As you use the pry tool, apply even pressure to pop open the clips that hold the controller together. Avoid using excessive force to prevent any cracks or breaks in the plastic.
Continue prying open the controller: Once you have released the clips on one side, move to the adjacent side and repeat the process. Gradually work your way around the entire perimeter until the controller is fully open.
Be cautious of ribbon cables: As you open the controller, be mindful of any ribbon cables that may be attached to the front and back halves. These delicate cables connect the buttons and triggers to the circuit board and should be handled with care.

Take your time when opening the controller to ensure you do not accidentally damage any of the internal components. Make sure to keep track of the position of the ribbon cables to avoid unnecessary hassle during reassembly.

Once the controller is opened, you will have access to the internal components for cleaning, repair, or modification as needed. Continue to the next step to learn how to disconnect the ribbon cables to fully separate the controller’s halves.

Step 4: Disconnect the Ribbon Cables

With the Xbox One controller opened, the next step is to disconnect the ribbon cables that connect the buttons and triggers to the circuit board. Follow these steps to safely disconnect the ribbon cables:

Identify the ribbon cables: Look for thin flat cables that are connected to the front and back halves of the controller. These cables are responsible for transmitting signals from the buttons and triggers to the circuit board.
Unlock the connectors: Locate the connectors on the circuit board where the ribbon cables are inserted. These connectors typically have a small latch that holds the cable in place. Gently lift the latch or slide it to unlock the connector.
Remove the ribbon cables: Once the connectors are unlocked, carefully pull out the ribbon cables from their respective connectors. Take care not to bend or damage the cables during this process.

It is important to handle ribbon cables with caution, as they are delicate and can be easily damaged if mishandled. Ensure that you have a firm grip on the connectors and pull straight out to avoid any unnecessary strain on the cables.

By disconnecting the ribbon cables, you are now able to fully separate the front and back halves of the controller. This will allow you to clean or replace components as necessary. Proceed to the next step to learn how to remove the triggers and buttons from the controller.

Step 5: Remove the Triggers and Buttons

After disconnecting the ribbon cables, the next step is to remove the triggers and buttons from the Xbox One controller. Follow these steps to safely remove the components:

Identify the triggers and buttons: Take note of the triggers and buttons that you need to remove. These include the shoulder buttons, A, B, X, and Y buttons, as well as the D-pad.
Locate the retaining clips: Look for small plastic clips or tabs that hold the triggers and buttons in place. These clips need to be released before the components can be removed.
Release the clips: To release the clips, carefully use a plastic pry tool or your fingernail to gently push the clips in the direction indicated by arrows molded onto the controller’s casing.
Remove the triggers and buttons: Once the clips are released, carefully lift and remove the triggers and buttons from the controller. Take note of their orientation for proper reassembly.

When removing the triggers and buttons, it is important to be cautious and apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging any of the delicate components. Make sure to keep the removed triggers and buttons in a safe place to avoid misplacing them.

By removing the triggers and buttons, you have gained access to the underlying circuit board and can now clean or replace these components if needed. Continue to the next step to learn how to remove the thumbsticks from the controller.

Step 6: Remove the Thumbsticks

After removing the triggers and buttons, the next step is to remove the thumbsticks from the Xbox One controller. Follow these steps to safely remove the thumbsticks:

Identify the thumbsticks: Take note of the thumbsticks located on the front of the controller. These are the analog sticks used to control movement and camera direction in games.
Inspect for securing mechanisms: Look for any securing mechanisms that may be holding the thumbsticks in place, such as screws or clips. Different controller models may have varying mechanisms.
Remove the securing mechanism: If there are screws, carefully unscrew them using the appropriate screwdriver. If there are clips, use a plastic pry tool or your fingernail to gently release the clips and free the thumbsticks.
Pull out the thumbsticks: Once the securing mechanism is removed, gently pull out the thumbsticks from their housing. Be careful not to apply excessive force to prevent any damage to the internal components.

When removing the thumbsticks, it is crucial to handle them with care and avoid putting excessive pressure on the delicate components. Make sure to keep the removed thumbsticks in a safe place to avoid misplacing them.

By removing the thumbsticks, you have full access to the underlying analog stick mechanisms or can clean/retrieve any debris that may have accumulated over time. Proceed to the next step to learn how to clean the controller components.

Step 7: Clean the Controller

After disassembling your Xbox One controller, it’s important to clean the various components to ensure optimal performance. Follow these steps to effectively clean the controller:

Wipe the controller shell: Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the exterior of the controller. This will remove any dust or fingerprints that may have accumulated.
Clean the buttons and triggers: Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the buttons and triggers. Gently wipe each button to remove any dirt or grime that may affect their responsiveness.
Remove debris from the thumbstick mechanisms: Inspect the thumbstick mechanisms for any debris or dust particles. Use a can of compressed air to blow away any loose debris or use a cotton swab to carefully clean them.
Clear any buildup around the circuit board: Examine the circuit board for any dust, dirt, or residue. Use a soft brush or compressed air to carefully clean the board and its components, taking caution not to damage any delicate elements.
Check the connectors: Ensure that the connectors for the ribbon cables are clean and free from debris. Use a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to clean them if needed.

When cleaning the controller, always handle the components with care to prevent any damage or bending. Avoid using excessive force during the cleaning process.

By properly cleaning the controller’s components, you will maintain its functionality and prolong its lifespan. Once you have completed the cleaning process, you are ready to reassemble the controller. Proceed to the next step for instructions on how to reassemble the Xbox One controller.

Step 8: Reassemble the Controller

After cleaning the components of your Xbox One controller, it’s time to reassemble it. Follow these steps to successfully put the controller back together:

Reattach the thumbsticks: Insert the thumbsticks back into their respective housing. Make sure they are placed securely and align properly with the analog stick mechanisms.
Connect the ribbon cables: Gently insert the ribbon cables back into their connectors on the circuit board. Ensure they are fully seated and aligned correctly with the markings on the connectors.
Place the triggers and buttons: Align the triggers and buttons back into their respective positions on the controller. Ensure they fit snugly into the slots and clips that hold them in place.
Close the controller casing: Carefully align the front and back halves of the controller, making sure all the buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks are properly aligned. Apply even pressure to snap the clips back into place.
Secure the screws: Using the appropriate screwdriver, reattach the screws to the back of the controller. Make sure they are tightened securely, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the plastic casing.

Take your time during the reassembly process to ensure everything is correctly positioned and aligned. Double-check all the steps to make sure you haven’t missed anything.

Once you have successfully reassembled the controller, test its functionality by connecting it to your Xbox One or computer. Ensure that all the buttons, triggers, and thumbsticks are working as expected.

Congratulations! You have now successfully taken apart, cleaned, and reassembled your Xbox One controller. Enjoy gaming with your refreshed and revitalized controller!