Xbox Series X|S Controller (Model 1914) Thumbstick Covers Replacement

Written By: Manuel Haeussermann

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

20 - 30 minutes

Introduction

Use this guide to replace the damaged or worn-out thumbstick covers on your Xbox Series X|S Controller (model 1914).

Thumbstick covers are sometimes called joystick covers, joystick toppers or thumbstick toppers.

Remove the batteries.
When re-inserting the batteries, make sure to position them correctly, with their positive (+) and negative (–) ends matching up with the markings on the controller’s battery contacts. If your batteries are starting to corrode, replace them with new batteries.

Insert an opening tool between the left handle cover and the bottom inner edge of the back housing.

Before doing this step, it is recommended to clean the edges of the cover

Thanks for adding this tip!

Strong plastic clips secure the handle cover. Significant force is required to release them.
Slide the opening tool along the inner edge of the left handle cover and pry intermittently to release the plastic clips.

The plastic clips on the outer edge make it difficult to slide along it and release the clips. Therefore, prying up on the inner edge is the easier option.
Pry up the middle inner edge of the handle cover with the opening tool to release the remaining clips.
Place a finger on top of the handle cover to prevent it from being forcefully ejected.
Remove the left handle cover.
To reinstall the left handle cover, position it on the back housing and press down firmly along the edges to engage all of the clips.

Insert an opening tool between the right handle cover and the bottom inner edge of the back housing.

Strong plastic clips secure the handle cover. Significant force is required to release them.
Slide the opening tool along the inner edge of the right handle cover and pry intermittently to release the plastic clips.

The plastic clips on the outer edge make it difficult to slide along it and release the clips. Therefore, prying up on the inner edge is the easier option.
Pry up the middle inner edge of the handle cover with the opening tool to release the remaining clips.
Place a finger on top of the handle cover to prevent it from being forcefully ejected.
Remove the right handle cover.
To reinstall the right handle cover, position it on the back housing and press down firmly along the edges to engage all of the clips.

The sticker in the battery compartment covers a housing screw. Peel it back or pierce through it with a screwdriver.
Use a pair of tweezers or your fingers to peel back the sticker to reveal the screw.
You only need to peel this sticker to where you can access the hidden screw. You don't need to pull it completely off.