Xbox Controller Keeps Turning Off [FIXED]

Ever been deep in the heat of a game, about to score the winning point, when suddenly your Xbox controller keeps turning off? We’ve all been there. Controllers may turn off for various reasons like battery issues, update issues, or any hardware-related issues. 

Key Takeaways

• Persistent Xbox controller power-offs disrupt gameplay due to glitches like controllers turning off can result from low batteries or being out of optimal range (19-28 feet) from the console.
• Common Xbox controller turn-off causes include outdated firmware, excessive devices, sleep mode, and software/hardware problems.
• The possible solutions are power cycle, battery check, proximity, re-pair, firmware update, disable auto sleep, and others. 

Causes Of Controller Keeps Turning Off

Understanding a problem is the first step to solving it. Before we delve into the solutions, let’s take a moment to understand the common reasons behind the Xbox controller’s unexpected breaks in connection.

1. Low or discharged batteries.
2. Controller out of range from the console.
3. Outdated controller firmware.
4. Too many Bluetooth devices are connected.
5. The controller is set to auto-sleep mode.
6. Software/hardware issues with the controller.

How To Fix Xbox Controller Keeps Turning Off

With knowledge about the potential causes, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and tackle these disconnection issues.

Here is how to fix it:

1. Power Cycle Your Controller
2. Replace Or Recharge The Controller’s Batteries
3. Move The Controller Closer To The Console
4. Reconnect Or Re-Pair The Controller
5. Update The Xbox 
6. Updating Xbox Wireless Controller Via PC
7. Disable Controller Auto Sleep
8. Use A USB Connection
9. Try The Controller On Another Console
10. Factory Reset The Xbox Console

Power Cycle Your Controller

To address the Xbox controller self-power-off problem:

1. Begin by pressing and holding the Xbox button until the controller powers off.
2. Allow a brief pause.
3. Press the Xbox button again to power it on.
4. Repeat this sequence 2-3 times consecutively.
5. If the issue persists, it’s advisable to proceed with additional troubleshooting steps.

Replace Or Recharge The Controller’s Batteries

Powered-up controller is the bridge between you and your virtual adventures. The Xbox wireless controller offers flexibility in its power sources, but it’s essential to know how to handle each type for optimal performance.

Also Read: How to Change NAT type in Xbox One

Your Xbox wireless controller can be powered by two primary types of batteries:

AA (LR6) Batteries

These can be either alkaline or rechargeable. However, it’s crucial to ensure they have the “LR6“ designation for compatibility and optimal performance.

Rechargeble Battery Pack

This is a specialized battery pack designed for your Xbox controller. It offers the convenience of recharging while you play or even when your Xbox is in standby mode.

Steps To Replace Or Recharge The Controller’s Batteries

Replacing AA Batteries

• 1. Hold the controller upside-down in one hand.
  2. Press the battery door on the arrow symbol with your opposite thumb.
  3. Slide the door in the direction the arrow points and remove it.
  4. Take out the old batteries.
  5. Insert the new AA batteries, ensuring they are oriented as shown inside the compartment.

Recharging The Battery Pack

• 1. Connect one end of the USB cable to the port on your controller.
  2. Attach the other end to your Xbox console or any suitable USB power source.
  3. The battery indicator on your screen will display a plug over the battery, indicating it’s charging.

Checking The Battery Level

Stay ahead of any potential gaming interruptions by regularly monitoring your controller’s battery level.

Here is how to check it: 

1. Glance at the upper-right corner of any screen on your Xbox console.

If the battery indicator isn’t visible, navigate to Profile & System> Settings > Devices & Connections> Accessories. Select the controller you’re using, then choose More options (…). The battery indicator will be displayed above the controller image.

 Important: Make sure to always keep your controller charged to avoid all sorts of problems.  

Move The Controller Closer To The Console

Wireless technology offers the freedom to move around without being tethered, but it does have its range limits. One of the primary reasons for your Xbox controller’s disconnection could be the distance from the console. 

Here’s what you should do:

1. First, understand that most wireless Xbox controllers operate optimally within a range of 19-28 feet. This range ensures a stable connection without interference.
2. If you’re playing from a distant spot, consider relocating closer to the console. Find a comfortable position within the specified range to maintain a consistent connection.
3. Make sure there aren’t any large objects, walls, or other electronic devices between the controller and the console, as these can disrupt the connection.
4. After repositioning, turn off the controller and then turn it back on to re-establish a fresh connection with the console.
5. Play for a while to test the connection. If it remains stable, the distance is likely the issue. If not, further troubleshooting may be needed.

Reconnect Or Re-Pair The Controller

Update The Xbox 

Updating the Xbox can help you resolve the error as sometimes it can be problematic that you have been using the console for a long time and now it needs updating and hence it is causing this controller to go off again and again.

Updating Xbox Wireless Controller Via PC

1. Download the Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store on your Windows PC.
2. Connect your controller to the PC using a USB cable.
3. Open the Xbox Accessories app. It should automatically detect your connected controller.
4. The app will check for updates. If any are found, it will show the updates required follow the prompts to download and install them.

   

5. Then you will get your controller updated by the time it reaches 100%.

Also Read: Xbox One Controller Button Not Working 

Disable Controller Auto Sleep

One feature in the Xbox controller is the auto sleep mode, designed to conserve battery life when the controller isn’t in use. However, sometimes this feature can be a little too eager, causing unexpected disconnections during your gaming sessions.

Here’s how to disable it:

1. Start by powering up your Xbox controller. Press the Xbox button to ensure it’s active and connected to the console.
2. Once the controller is active, simultaneously press and hold both the Xbox button and the Menu button for about 3 seconds. This action can sometimes directly toggle the auto sleep mode.
   
3. To access the settings, open the guide by pressing the Xbox button. Navigate through the menu options: From System, look for the Auto Sleep option. If you don’t find it there, you might need to go deeper into the settings.
4. Choose “General” and go to Power Mode and Startup.

   

5. Within these settings, you’ll find auto sleep or similar power-saving options. Toggle off the auto sleep feature to ensure your controller remains active during your gaming sessions.
6. After disabling, it’s a good practice to test the controller for a while. Play a game or navigate through the Xbox menus to ensure the controller doesn’t go into sleep mode unexpectedly.

Use A USB Connection

Using a USB connection can eliminate many common wireless interference problems and provide a direct link between your controller and the console.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate a compatible USB cable, preferably the one that came with your Xbox or a high-quality third-party cable.
2. Plug one end of the USB cable into the Xbox console’s USB port. Most Xbox consoles have multiple USB ports, so you can choose any that’s available.
3. Connect the other end of the USB cable to your Xbox controller. Ensure the connection is secure on both ends.
4. Turn on your Xbox console. The controller should automatically be recognized and connected via the USB.
5. Test the controller’s functionality in this wired mode by navigating through the Xbox menus or playing a game.
6. If the controller works without any disconnections, it indicates that the previous issues might have been related to wireless interference or range.
7. After testing, if you prefer to return to a wireless connection, simply unplug the USB cable from both the console and the controller.

Try The Controller On Another Console

By testing the controller on a different Xbox console, you can determine if the issue is specific to the controller or if it’s related to your original console. 

Here’s what you need to do: 

1. First, ensure that the second Xbox console you’re going to use is working correctly with its own controllers. 
2. Disconnect your controller from the original Xbox console. If it’s connected wirelessly, simply turn off the controller. If it’s connected via USB, unplug it.
3. Turn on the second Xbox console and ensure it’s in a state where it’s ready to pair with a new controller.
4. Initiate the pairing process on the controller by pressing and holding the pairing button until the Xbox logo starts flashing.
5. On the second Xbox console, press the pairing button. Wait for a few moments until the controller’s and console’s lights become steady, indicating a successful connection.
6. Test the controller’s functionality on the second console by navigating the menus or playing a game.
7. If the controller works flawlessly on the second console, the issue might be with your original Xbox console. 

Factory Reset The Xbox Console

Resetting the Xbox to its factory settings can resolve underlying issues that aren’t immediately apparent. However, be cautious: a factory reset will erase all data and settings, so ensure you’ve backed up any essential data before proceeding.

Relevant Articles

• How to Clear Cache on Xbox
• How to clean Xbox and controller