Nothing is more frustrating than the "Reconnect Controller" error message appearing on the screen while you're in the middle of a big game or in the middle of a complex mission. While there may be several reasons why the controller has shut down, the solution to this type of problem is usually very simple. If the controller lights do not come on, the battery is the cause of the problem. If the controller lights turn on, but the device does not connect to the Xbox, please read the second method of the article directly. If you don't have any other options, read the third method of the article.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Troubleshoot Power and Battery Problems
Step 1. Remove the battery pack or alkaline batteries
Dead batteries are the most common cause of the controller's sudden shutdown. Press the release button of the battery pack and remove the stylus batteries inside it.
Step 2. Replace the dead batteries with new ones
Use two new AA batteries and never try to use a new and dead battery.
Step 3. If you are using a rechargeable battery pack, put it on charge
Most battery packs can be recharged by connecting the controller directly to the Xbox using the appropriate USB cable or by inserting it into the appropriate charger. Put it on charge and wait 1-3 hours before trying to turn the controller back on.
- If you have chosen to use the USB cable to connect the controller to the console, be sure to turn on the Xbox before connecting.
- When the controller is connected to the Xbox 360 with the USB cable, you can continue playing while the battery charges.
- If the battery pack is charging correctly, the indicator light on the USB cable or on the special charger will be on and red. When it turns green, it means that charging is complete.
Step 4. Use a flashlight or light to visually examine the metal contacts on the bottom of the battery pack
If the controller does not stay on, make sure the metal contacts of the battery pack are not oxidized or dirty. If so, you will have to clean them thoroughly or in severe cases buy a new battery pack.
To clean the metal contacts of the battery pack you can use a dry cotton swab to remove dirt and dust
Step 5. If the battery pack feels loose to you, try to secure it in its slot
If the controller tends to disconnect from the console every time it vibrates or you move it firmly, it means that the battery pack is loose and cannot maintain a firm connection with the controller. Although the simplest solution to this problem is to purchase a new battery pack, you can try to secure it in place using adhesive tape.
If you have chosen to use duct tape, be aware that this is only a temporary solution which will also make it difficult to replace the batteries inside once they are empty
Method 2 of 3: Remove Interference That May Disrupt Controller Radio Connection
Step 1. Restart the console and reconnect the controller
Turn off the Xbox and wait at least 5 seconds before turning it back on. When the console is starting up, reconnect the controller by following these instructions:
- Press and hold the "Guide" button to turn on the controller (it is located in the center of the controller and is characterized by the Xbox logo);
- Press the connect button on the front of the Xbox. It is a small button located near the one used to eject the optical reader carriage;
- Within the next 20 seconds you must press the connect button on the controller. It is located on the top of the device near the battery pack;
- When the console lights stop flashing, the controller should be properly connected.
Step 2. Be aware that other wireless devices may be interfering with the controller signal
Normally the Xbox controller is able to maintain the connection with the console within a radius of 30 feet, but this distance can be reduced due to the presence of other devices or machinery that emit radio waves. Delete any wireless devices between you and the console to improve the controller connection. Devices that can adversely interfere with the controller connection include:
- Microwave ovens;
- Cordless telephones;
- Wireless router;
- Laptop.
Step 3. Eliminate the physical obstacles between your location and the Xbox
Although the wireless signal is able to pass through some materials easily, it can encounter problems when it comes to metal or chrome objects, TV cabinet doors or shelving.
Try placing the Xbox on the floor and connecting the wireless controller from a short distance to check if the connection is stable without interference and obstructions
Step 4. Make sure there aren't already 4 controllers paired with the console
The Xbox 360 can only be connected to four controllers at the same time, so if this limit has been reached your wireless controller will never be able to connect to the console.
- This limit also includes regular USB controllers, so unplug one and try reconnecting the wireless one.
- You can quickly disconnect one of the controllers by removing the corresponding battery pack or restarting the console.
Step 5. Replace the controller
If you know the batteries are new and charged and you have eliminated any interference or objects that could disturb the signal, you may need to purchase a new controller. Call Xbox Technical Support to find out if your controller is still under warranty and can be replaced free of charge.
In order to request a free controller replacement, the Xbox must be associated with your Microsoft account
Method 3 of 3: Reset the Xbox 360
Step 1. Try to reset the console if the problem persists
While this is not a Microsoft recommended solution, some users have solved the problem by resetting the console. Be aware that you should contact Microsoft technical support before performing this procedure.
This solution has been reported in some web forums and not directly from Microsoft
Step 2. Press and hold the connect button on the front of the Xbox 360 for 30 seconds
Make sure the console is turned on. The lights on the Xbox should blink and turn on in turn, then turn off completely. Press and hold the indicated button until the lights on the console have gone out.
Step 3. Disconnect all cables
Remove the power cord from the electrical outlet and the console itself, unplug any controllers that have a USB cable, unplug the network cable (if present), and finally remove the Xbox 360 hard drive from the console.
Step 4. Wait 5 minutes before re-establishing all connections
After the indicated time has elapsed you will be able to reconnect all the cables you have disconnected and reinstall the Xbox 360 hard drive, then try to reconnect the controller following the procedure described in the second method of the article.
If the problem persists, you will need to contact Microsoft customer support and describe your situation. In severe cases you will need to purchase a new console or request a replacement if the current one is still under warranty
Advice
To save money, replace the controller's regular alkaline batteries with rechargeable batteries. However, in this case you will have to remove them from the controller to reload them
Warnings
- Do not bend the metal contacts of the battery pack, otherwise you run the risk of breaking them.
- Be aware that, while they can sometimes be effective, do-it-yourself repairs and "in-house" modifications to the controller's battery pack could void its warranty.
- Do not use the USB cable to charge a controller that uses normal alkaline AA batteries or an incompatible battery pack.
