How To Fix Xbox Controller When It Keeps Shutting Off

Xbox just like any other device may face some problems. One of the common issues is the Xbox controller shutting off without being commanded by the user. There are some reasons why your Xbox controller shuts off on its own. However, there are some ways of fixing these problems.

Reasons Why Xbox Controller Keeps Shutting Off

1. Poor/Weak Batteries

Low battery power will result in your controller disconnecting from the console. Check the battery power on the Home Screen. If the power is too low then the batteries need replacement or recharging.

2. Longer Range From The Console

Your Xbox controller will automatically disconnect from the console when the range between the two is big. Sometimes you may carry your controller and move far from the console while playing. You might be far away from the wireless capability range of the console.  When gaming or using the controllers, know the wireless range of your console and don’t move beyond it, otherwise the controller will automatically disconnect.

3. Faulty Controller

Sometimes your controller might be the problem. it might shut off by itself when the battery is full and leave you wondering what the problem could be. Well, the controller itself could be the reason for this whole problem.

4. Outdated Controller Firmware

Your controller may keep on shutting just because the firmware is older than the current firmware in use. Other than old firmware, you might have uploaded the wrong firmware that is not fully compatible with your controller.

Ways To Fix Xbox Controller When It Keeps Shutting Off

Your Xbox controller keeps shutting off because of some of the reasons given above. However, here are some ways to fix the problem:

1. Check The Batteries And Replace/Recharge

Faulty and old batteries which are less powerful will make your controller turns off every time. It is necessary to check them and ensure that they are up to the task. You can check the battery power on the Home screen and see the percentage strength of your batteries. If your batteries are not rechargeable, replace them with new ones. Rechargeable batteries should be constantly recharged. If you use rechargeable batteries, it is advisable to have different pairs so that the ones that are not in use are put to charge while the others are in use so that your Xbox usage controller usage is continuous.

2. Reduce The Distance Between The Controller And The Console

Your Xbox controllers should always be within the wireless range of your console to avoid it disconnecting. A controller is of no use when disconnected from the console. Move closer to your console and check whether the controller still has problems connecting with the console or powering of persists.

3. Try Re-Pairing The Controller with the Console

Reconnecting your Xbox to the console may help solve the connection issue hence shutting off the problem of your controller. You may end establishing a good connection between the console and the controllers. Re-pairing your controller with the console means disconnecting (un-pairing) first. Follow these steps to disconnect:

  • Using a high-quality USB cable, plug it into your controller and PC from either end.
  • Check out the Sync button on your controller.
  • Long press the Sync button.
  • Plug out the USB cable from the controller.

The above steps disconnect the controller from the console.

Follow These Steps To Re-pair The Controller:

  • Put on the controller.
  • The X sign should be flashing.
  • Hold the Sync button of your controller.
  • The Xbox controller is fully synced when the controller and Xbox are white.

4. Perform  Power Cycle On Your Console

This is a method of rebooting. It is common for troubleshooting most devices. This could help solve the issue. Follow these steps to power cycle your Xbox:

  • Press and hold the Xbox button of your Xbox console for 15 seconds until it powers off.
  • Repeat the same after 1 minute to power it on again.
  • Put on your controller and try using it to check whether the problem is resolved.

5. Check And Update The Controller Firmware

Old firmware could be the cause of your controller problems. Follow these steps to update your controller firmware:

  • Use a USB cable to connect the controller to the console.
  • Log in to Xbox Live on your Xbox console.
  • Hold the Menu button of the controller.
  • Choose settings.
  • Choose Device and accessories and select the faulty controller.
  • Choose Update and tap Continue.
  • The updating process will continue but there will be a message ‘No Updates needed’ if your controller is up to date.

6. Use Another Controller

Your controller could be the problem if you have tried all the above ways of troubleshooting. Consider using another controller that is compatible with your Xbox console to see whether the problem is resolved.

7. Ensure The Xbox Controller Drive Is Updated If Controller Is Connected To PC

If you have connected the controller to your PC, then the Xbox Controller drive might be outdated hence the disconnection issues. Updating your controller drivers is made easy by Driver Easy. Driver Easy will help you perform an update automatically. The good news is that there is both a free version and a chargeable Pro version. Follow these steps to update your controller drivers using Driver Easy:

  • Download Driver Easy and install it.
  • Open and run Driver Easy then tap the Scan Now icon.
  • Tap Update All. The latest versions of all the drivers will be automatically downloaded and installed.
  • Restart the PC/Computer so that the changes are effective.

Check whether the problem is resolved.

8. Seek Xbox Support 

If all the above ways are not working at all, then it is time to seek the help of Microsoft. Alternatively, consult the Xbox dealers where you purchased your Xbox from.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Prevent Automatic Shutdown On My Controller?

This is caused by the auto sleep setting. You can disable the feature by:

  • Going to the dashboard
  • Choose System
  • Deactivate Auto Sleep

Alternatively, you can modify another power setting using these steps:

  • Move to Profile and System
  • Choose Setting and select General
  • Choose Power and Start-Up
  • Choose Turn off after
  • Enable Don’t turn automatically

Why Does My Controller Go Idle?

Your controller could be going idle due to the activated Auto Sleep feature. Use the steps described above to deactivate Auto Sleep.

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