Gaming repair

Left Joy-Con Joystick Replacement

Replace a drifting or damaged left controller joystick.

01 / Get ready

Before you begin

Use the left Joy-Con procedure; the right controller and Switch Lite have different layouts.
Confirm the replacement joystick matches your controller. Read the complete guide before opening it.
Organize the tiny screws and handle ribbon connectors gently. Do not pull a cable before releasing its latch.

Stop if you find a damaged battery, liquid damage or a part that does not match the guide. Don’t force a connector or improvise a tool.

02 / Set up your bench

Check the illustrated guide for required parts, adhesives and tool alternatives. These links go directly to iFixit; tools are purchased separately.

03 / Follow every step

Use the guide controls to move through the procedure. Read each step’s notes and warnings before continuing.

Guide and photography by iFixit contributors. Open the original guide ↗

04 / Check your work

Reassemble the controller and calibrate the control stick in the Switch settings.
Test direction, centering, stick-click and the remaining buttons.

Keep a note of anything that does not work as expected. Our team can help diagnose the next step.