Replace Thumbsticks and Battery
This video will show you how to open the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller:
1. Remove the Black Trim
Insert your plastic pry tool into the thin gap at the bottom tip of one of the controller grips.
Gently pry upward to release the plastic clips.
Work your way up around the thumbsticks and pop the entire black trim piece off.
2. Remove the L1 and R1 Buttons
Wedge your plastic pry tool under the outer edge of the L1 button and gently pop it out of place.
Repeat the exact same action for the R1 button.
3. Unscrew the Outer Shell
Locate and remove the two 6.5 mm screws revealed directly underneath the L1 and R1 buttons.
Locate and remove the two screws at the very bottom ends of the controller handles (previously hidden by the black trim).
4. Pry Open the Rear Case
Locate the two plastic retention tabs near the headphone jack on the bottom edge.
Use your tool to release these tabs while pulling the front and back shells apart.
Slide your pry tool along the side seams to free the remaining hidden side clips.
Lift the rear white case straight off.
5. Disconnect the Battery
Lift the battery out of its holding plastic bracket.
Grasp the white plastic battery plug firmly with your fingers or tweezers and pull it straight out of the motherboard socket. Do not pull on the red and black wires directly.
6. Remove the Battery Bracket
Locate the single Phillips screw holding the clear or black plastic battery bracket to the motherboard.
Remove this screw and lift the bracket out. Be careful not to tear the thin microphone ribbon cable attached nearby.
7. Swap the Thumbsticks
You do not need to fully remove the motherboard. Gently pull the motherboard slightly back away from the front shell until the thumbsticks clear the holes.
Grip the old plastic thumbstick cap and pull it straight up and off the metal analog post.
Align your new thumbstick cap with the grooved metal post and push it firmly down until it clicks securely into position.
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