PS4 controllers were the first to introduce the DualShock technology and had many advanced features not found in older controllers. For example, your PS4 controller will flash different colored lights depending on your game. However, if it flashes orange light, there could be something wrong with your controller.
An orange light indicates the controller isn’t connecting correctly to the PS4. It could also indicate a hardware issue, software problems, or battery issues. You can resolve the problem by restarting the console, updating the software, replacing the batteries, or resetting the controller.
Let’s look at the main functions of the PS4 controller, what different lights mean, how to resolve error messages, and what you can do to make sure your controller works well over time.
How a PS4 Controller Functions
The PS4 Dualshock controller (on Amazon) will function as the primary gaming controller when playing on a PS4. It’s a cordless controller and connects to the console via Bluetooth.
The controller supports a headset port, a micro USB, and an extension port. As the eighth-generation controller released by Sony, it has unique dual shock and vibration features.
The PS4 controller has many buttons, but these can be divided into action buttons, movement buttons, options buttons, and the PS button.
The PS button helps you access the home screen and can be used to switch off the PS4. Action buttons are used in games and can help you select options, while movement buttons are the buttons on the joysticks.
The PS4 also has a touchpad that can be used in different functions, depending on what you’re playing. You can also use the controller as an extension of your remote and access web browsers, YouTube, and other applications.
If you have a new PS4 controller, you’ll have to pair it with a USB console. Once the controller is paired and connected, you can connect it by simply turning on the PS button.
The PS4 controller is much more advanced than the previous controllers released by Sony and has multiple next-gen gaming functions.
What Different Light Colors Indicate on Your PS4
While most people are used to white or blue lights flashing on their PS4 controller, few know what these colors mean. On rare occasions, you may see colors like orange or green, depending on the game you’re playing and the function the PS4 is on.
Different colors have different meanings depending on what you’re doing on the PS4 console. We have a whole article dedicated to explaining all these colors, and it gets a little tricky because some colors will change depending on your levels in a specific game, while others may indicate errors on the console. For example, a white flashing light is often a sign that your controller’s battery is low.
Sometimes, the controllers will change on different controllers when playing multiplayer games. In addition, each player will be assigned a different color. Your console’s color may also respond to in-game actions, and the possibilities of color changes during a game are endless.
If you understand the different colors on the PS4 controller, you’ll know when there’s something wrong with your console. If you play a particular game regularly, you’ll get used to the different color changes and get a better idea of what they accompany on-screen.
Troubleshooting Your PS4 Controller
If you’re facing problems with your PS4 controller, you’ll start seeing red, white, or orange lights. A red light usually indicates that there’s something wrong with the controller. This could be the buttons, joystick, or software. We have a whole write-up on how to diagnose+fix that.
If you see a red light repeatedly flashing on your controller, you’ll have to update the software or take it in for repairs. While there are tutorials on self-repair a PS4 controller, a red light indicates a hardware issue that requires a professional to fix.
A white light is usually a sign that your controller’s battery is low.
An orange flashing light on your PS4 controller could indicate charging problems, firmware or hardware problems, or a malfunctioning controller. Here are some troubleshooting steps to fix an orange light on a PS4 controller:
Restart the Console
Restarting your PS4 is the best solution to most minor problems and bugs. First, press the power button for a few seconds until the PS4 shuts down. Then, wait 5 minutes and restart your console. If the orange lights were from a minor software problem, restarting the PS4 should resolve the issue.
Fix Connection Problems
An orange light could indicate that your PS4 isn’t connecting correctly to the controller. This could be caused by a software problem, a faulty USB cable, or because the controller is already linked to another device.
To solve this problem, try resetting the controller and reconnecting. Also, check for damaged cables and test whether the USB port works with other devices.
Fix Charging Problems
An orange light that flashes while your PS4 controller is charging usually indicates that the controller isn’t charging correctly. You can fix this problem by replacing the charger or charging cable and checking whether the controller’s batteries are working.
While the batteries are rechargeable, they expire after a few years, and you’ll have to replace them.
Fix Connection Problems on PC
If your controller flashes an orange light on a PC, it’s usually because of a faulty cable. First, try replacing the cable to fix this problem. If this doesn’t work, try restarting your PC and reconnecting the controller.
How to Know if Your PS4 Controller is Charging Properly
The easiest way to know whether your PS4 controller is charging properly is to look at the flashing lights. A glowing orange light means your controller is charging correctly, while a white light indicates that the battery is low and you haven’t plugged it in correctly.
You can also check the charging status of your PS4 controller on the PS4 screen. Hold the PS button on the controller while it’s charging. The charging levels will show on the bottom left corner of the home screen.
If the controller is plugged in but not charging correctly, it could be due to faulty software, batteries, or a faulty cable. If the issue is with the batteries and cable, you can quickly resolve it by replacing the batteries and trying a different cable.
However, if there is a persistent software problem with the PS4 controller, you’ll have to reset it. To reset your PS4 controller:
- Locate the reset button on your controller. It’s at the back of the controller and may be challenging to find.
- Take a pin or sim tray eject tool and press the reset button for 4-5 seconds. The controller should reset.
- Plug the controller into the PS4 and pair it with your console just like a new controller.
How to Properly Care for Your PS4 Controllers
If you properly care for your PS4 controller, you’ll prolong its life and reduce the risk of it malfunctioning. When the battery hits less than 25%, always charge your controller, and don’t wait for it to die before charging.
Charging your controller on time will keep the batteries in good condition, and you won’t have to replace them often.
Also, avoid dropping the PS4 controller on a hard surface, which could damage internal components. Finally, pay attention to the lights and vibrations on the controller. If the controller flashes a red or orange light for no reason, look for the problem or contact PlayStation Support.
And watch out for other signs the controller needs attention, like if it keeps vibrating unexpectedly, or if it simply won’t stay connected to the console.
Cleaning Your PS4 Controllers
Even though your controller may look clean on the outside, it’s probably filled with dirt in hard-to-see places. Cleaning your controller regularly can prevent dirt buildup and protect the controller from damage.
Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the dust off your controller. Don’t forget the areas around the analog stick and underneath the controller. Also, avoid using abrasive cleaners on your controller. If you’re facing difficulty removing grime, use isopropyl alcohol.
When it’s Time to Replace Your PS4 Controller
The recommended lifetime of a PS4 controller is around two years, but you can make it last more than 7-8 years with proper care. However, if you reach a point where the controller faces a new problem every day, you’ll have to replace it. You should replace your PS4 controller if:
- The hardware is damaged beyond repair, or the repair costs are too high.
- When (if) your start to notice joystick drifting or unexpected input behavior that is interfering with the game.
- The controller gives the same error, even after you’ve tried troubleshooting it. So if you send it in for repairs and get the same error after some time, it’s best to replace the controller.
- If the joysticks wear out, you’ll need to replace the controller soon. While the joystick can be repaired, it’s a general consensus that once joystick problems start, they reappear often. As a result, you may spend more on repairs than you would have on a new controller!