How to Open a Wired Xbox 360 Controller

Last Updated: May 1, 2021

In this tutorial you will learn how to open a wired Xbox 360 controller. This is very simple and allows you to do many things like add lights and a cool paint job, replace worn analog sticks, or to perform simple maintenance or repairs.

Steps

1
Make sure that the controller is unplugged.
2
Flip the controller so the back is facing you.

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3
In the lower-right center of the controller you will see a small sticker with a barcode, although the barcode may fade over time. This sticker is right next to the Microsoft/XBox 360 hologram. Remove this sticker to expose a screw hole. (Removing this sticker voids the warranty, if your controller is still under warranty.)
4
Unscrew the all seven screws on the back of the controller and set them aside. Place them somewhere that they cannot be easily lost.
5
Separate the two halves of the controller shell.
6
Remove the bottom plate (where you connect a headset) by lifting it from the controller shell.
7
Remove the top plate (where the two bumper buttons are located) by lifting it from the controller shell.
8
Carefully remove the circuit board. The analog sticks can be removed by grabbing and pulling straight up.
9
(Wireless Controller only) The D-pad (Directional Pad) will still be connected to the top portion of the controller shell. To remove it you must remove two small screws located inside the D-Pad. These screws are slightly smaller than those on the controller shell and may require a smaller screwdriver. On a Xbox 360 wired controller, the D-pad will come right off, no extra screwdrivers required.
10
After removing the two screws from the D-Pad you will see two small clips inside it. Gently pry the clips to separate the two parts of the D-Pad. The D-Pad can now be easily removed.

Warnings

Do not plug in your controller while it is open as it may lead to the destruction of the controller and/or serious injury.

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Do not attempt any major modification of the electronics inside the controller unless you know what you are doing.

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Soldering irons are very hot. When using one you must be very careful. Failure to do so may result in serious burns.

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