Nintendo Switch Joy Con Drift Problem - How to Fix It!

The character moves without you touching the analog stick, the camera flies around without any command. Drifting Joy Cons are a huge problem with the Nintendo Switch, for which the Nintendo president even recently apologized . Here you can find out how to repair Joy Con drift even if the warranty has already expired.

The Nintendo Switch Joy Con Drift Problem

A drift problem occurs when the analog stick (usually the left one) is not touched, but something happens on the screen. Characters keep running or the camera perspective rotates. Apparently, it is not known exactly why the Joy Con drift problem occurs, but it is said to be a mix of wear and tear and a manufacturer's defect.

request repair

1. To send in the defective Joy Cons you must first register on the Nintendo repair portal .
2. Select the Nintendo Switch .
3. Then you have to select the version of your Switch . You can find this on the bottom edge of your Switch, for example.
4. Now you will be asked for some information , which you must fill out (date of purchase, serial number, etc.). To describe the Joy Con drift problem, you must enter the following in the error field: Operation - Recognition problems - Joy Con L
   If the Joy Con on the right is also acting up (that was the case for me), enter Others in the drop-down menu and describe the problem in the text field .
5. Click on continue to the next step
6. You will receive an email with the repair confirmation and two PDFs for the post office . In my case, shipping was free.

Preparing Nintendo Switch for shipping

Now the Switch needs to be sent off. This is the best way to send it:

1. Back up all your game files.
2. If there is a game cartridge and a memory card in your Switch, remove both.
3. It is best to put the Switch and the Joy Cons in the original packaging .
4. Now the Switch needs to be packed securely in an additional package with enough filling material to ensure it arrives safely. You can also include a copy of the purchase receipt .
5. Print out the return slip and stick it on.
6. Off we go.

Duration and process of the Joy Con repair

Now it's time to wait. In my case, the repair took exactly 7 days , but depending on the volume and holidays, etc., it can take up to 3 weeks.
You can view the status of the repair in the Nintendo Repair Portal under Status Query.

repair and costs

The analog sticks and the locks on both of my Joy Cons were defective. Both were replaced, meaning the Joy Cons were repaired and not replaced.
There were no shipping or repair costs even though the warranty had expired.

I hope I was able to help you a little with the Nintendo Switch Joy Con Drift problem, even if you may no longer have a warranty on your Nintendo Switch.