PS4 PS4 random input issues- failing motherboard?

[DragonFire]

Hi there

So, I bought a second hand PS4 about seven years ago now, and it’s served me well. The last couple of days however, it’s developed numerous issues with Dualshock controller input. The issues affect both controllers via Bluetooth or USB, and I’ve reset them both more than once. They relate to button input- randomly, different buttons don't function at various points (in different games), and the camera keeps panning to the ground or to the sky. I've also obviously rebooted the console a couple of times.

I’ve read a number of topics trying to find a solution, and also spoke to a repair shop. Their advice- which I’m inclined to trust, because they could have charged me for the privilege- was that these sorts of issues are the first signs of a failing motherboard.

I’m happy to upgrade to a PS5, but wanted just to double check this issue here before potentially hawking a defunct unit on ebay for £40, in case there’s any reasonable chance it can be simply fixed.

 

[Anankha]

Sounds like stick drift & worn out buttons. either have the controllers serviced & the sticks upgraded to tmr Hall effect ones or purchase a new controller.

I recently purchased an upgraded PS5 controller with Hall effect sticks & can recommend them. I bought on eBay & there are people there who offer a send in option which is usually cheaper.

 

[DragonFire]

Thanks for that, Ananka. If both controllers were original, that would make sense. But I only bought the 2nd controller in 2024, and I don't see how both controllers would have developed the same fault at the same time...

 

[Anankha]

I’ve found controllers last about 18 months with me. I play many games where the run button is pressing the left stick so some say this wears it out quicker. It is strange that both wore out at the same time though.

 

[DragonFire]

Thanks- in case it wasn't clear, it's not exactly that any controls have worn out. Any issues with specific controls are intermittent in-game, and the same buttons/joysticks work fine in the PS menu. Someone on Reddit suggested checking the RAM's seated correctly, so that's my next task.

 

[Anankha]

Then it might also be a game specific problem.