My PSP's analog stick has fallen (off) and can't get up

Game over.

(Credit: CNET Networks)

Alas, this is what happens when you play with your PSP too long and too vigorously. After several hours and running my virtual doppelg?nger, Dave Carnasty (now ranked 35th in the world), around the court in Smashcourt Tennis 3, the analog stick on my PSP literally snapped off. We're not talking just the button--which is removable--but the whole post detached from the unit.

I've seen lots of reports online about PSP analog stick problems, but it always hurts to experience them firsthand. I put in a call to Sony's PSP PR team, asking whether Sony has done anything to improve the analog stick in the new "slim" PSP, but so far I haven't heard back from them. In the meantime, I've been told I can get this fixed (from the looks of this video, the whole stick mechanism appears to be replaceable). Not sure how much it'll cost, but I may be better off putting the money toward a next-gen PSP if it runs me more than $40. What do you think? Anyone had a similar problem?

[ComposMentis]

replacement

The replacements are cheap on flea-bay. Just do a search for "PSP Analog" and you'll find many under $10 shipped. I play the heck out of my PSP so I'm sure it's just a matter of time before I have to do the same thing. I've replaced my faceplate with a Camy double-shot and had to remove the analog unit so I can attest it's a very easy fix.

[DaveMoney]

Been there, done that

The part you will need is not expensive and is rather easy to install. You will have to break a seal and void your warranty, but from the sound of it, you are already out of warranty.

Another tip? In most game stores you can get a replacement button/nub to pop on the arm...one that is bigger and more like a full size console nub, which might reduce the strss you put on the stick b/c it's easier to grip.

[jnm422]

PSP Analog

Yes, mine did this. First it started sticking, then suddenly, while playing World Cup it broke, cost me the game!!!! I sent it back to Sony, they gave me a refurb unit for $80. Not bad. BTW, I had the aftermarket knob and had been using it for a year before it broke.

[Mihuda7]

Replacement

Mine hasn't fallen off but I have taken apart my PSP and seen the inside of the analog stick. It is pretty easy to replace but you do void your warranty. You can also replace your whole faceplate while your at it because most faceplates include a new set of buttons anyway. If you look online for how to take it apart, it's not that hard.

[danisnotstan]

I broke 2 analog sticks!

I had this problem....only difference is that I rarely played my PSP...and when I did play, I would play the basketball or hockey game which lasted about 15 minutes....I would play this maybe 3 times per week over the course of the 3 months that I had the PSP. First I had the bigger replacement rubber thumb control that someone else mentioned that came from GameStop. After the stick snapped (just as in the picture here) I tried to glue it back in place (dont bother, it will work for a few seconds then the arrow will just scroll up and down by itself). I bought a replacement analog stick on ebay for $16 including shipping. It is easy to replace...all you do is take out all of the screws, open it up and there are 2 screws holding the analog stick unit in place...the second stick broke after a short time of use and I gave up...replaced it again and sold it. This is just a bad design which Sony obviously knew about when they made it aweful easy to replace...at least they thought that much through.

[dancing_in_the_dark]

omg mine has fallen off too =O

x

[SWithorny1234]

hi, i have this same problem on my PSP-1000 i have been trying to decide if i should send it back to Japan (thats where we got it)... i finally decided to just buy the analog stick module and screwdriver. it cost me $4.00!!! for both! i thought this was a great deal! also i got free shipping this is the link i bought it from. www.bestofferbuy.com hope you find what your looking for :)

[sblgamesllc]

If you aren't under Warranty with Sony, and you don't think you are able to repair it yourself, we offer a repair service. Our service price includes, 30 day Warranty, Priority USPS return shipping, and labor. Visit http://sblgames.mybisi.com/product/131140/Original-Sony-PSP-1001-Analog-joystick-Repair-Service_606975.html for more details.