There’s a lot you can do to make the console itself work better in the meantime. But a brand new controller isn’t an affordable fix. Especially when you’re trying to save that money for the next-generation console, accessories, and games. Well, that’s just the problem this guide looks to help you solve. Specifically, by showing you how you can easily replace the battery in your PS4 DualShock 4 controller.

Some pre-start notes about replacing your PS4 DualShock Battery

Now, before getting started, there are a couple of points worth noting. First, there are two separate controller generations, so although learning how to replace your PS4 DualShock 4 battery will be the same across the board, the battery you buy to replace it won’t. The second generation of controllers shipped with the PS4 Pro and Slim models. But you’ll need a different battery than that for the first-gen if you’re buying for the second-gen controller. The pricing is about the same on both batteries, as of this writing. And much less expensive than a new controller at just under $14. Otherwise, it’s worth noting that although both controllers are effectively the same when it comes to this repair, you should undertake the repair at your own risk, as with many how-to’s. Taking a controller apart will almost certainly void your warranty if you still have one. And there are small pieces in the controllers, even for such a simple repair, that can be lost. Rendering the controller non-functional — or at the very least less functional. Conversely, you’ll need to be careful about handling connectors, cables, and other internal components. It’s best to find a clean space while working, so it’s easier to keep an eye out for pieces that might come loose. And so that it’s easier to not get too distracted or accidentally bump something while you’re working.

Here’s how you can replace the component

Taking apart the PS4 DualShock controller is relatively straightforward and learning how to replace the battery in one is among the easiest repairs. So, provided you have the appropriate tools, the process doesn’t take too long. Before starting, you’ll need a plastic pry tool such as the one pictured in our sample images, a small screwdriver — we used a number 2 Phillips from an electronics repair kit — and a pair of electronics tweezers. Straight tweezers will work better than curved ones for this repair.

How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 69How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 88How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 41How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 18How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 36How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 50How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 27How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 26How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 62How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 40How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 24How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 95How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 43How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 12How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 73How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 66How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 15How To Replace Your PS4 DualShock 4 Controller Battery Easily - 42