Microsoft Now Selling Replacement Parts for Xbox Controllers
Microsoft has made it easier for gamers to repair their Xbox controllers by selling replacement parts and providing detailed documentation on how to perform repairs.
Xbox Repair and Replacement Parts Page
The new Xbox Repair and Replacement Parts page on the Microsoft Store allows players to order parts for the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and the Xbox Wireless Controller for Series X/S.
Available Parts
Players can purchase a variety of replacement parts, including:
- Replacement input PCBAs (circuit board for controller input)
- Replacement motor assemblies (with rumble motors)
- Buttons
- Top cases
Repair Documentation and Video Guides
In addition to selling replacement parts, Microsoft has also provided documentation and video guides to assist players in repairing their own equipment.
For example, there is a video tutorial demonstrating how to remove the case, battery, and disassemble/reassemble various components of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.
Microsoft’s Commitment to Consumer Repair
In 2021, Microsoft pledged to explore the possibility of allowing consumers to repair their own hardware, including Xbox consoles.
This commitment makes Microsoft the first major tech company to support the ‘right to repair’ movement, which advocates for companies to enable consumers to repair their devices.
The Challenge Faced by Microsoft
While it is legal for customers to repair products they own, Microsoft, along with other tech giants like Apple, have been criticized for making it difficult by withholding spare parts and repair instructions from non-authorized repair partners.
A potential hurdle for Microsoft is its membership in lobbying groups that oppose right-to-repair legislation. Notably, the Entertainment Software Association, the trade association of the US video game industry, has voiced its opposition to right-to-repair.
This places Microsoft in a challenging position as it aims to embrace the concept of right-to-repair while being associated with a group that strongly opposes it.
