# How to Troubleshoot and Fix FPV Drone ESC Desync Issues
ESC desync is a common and frustrating issue for FPV drone pilots, leading to sudden loss of control, wobbles, or even a “death roll.” This guide will walk you through the common causes and provide a systematic approach to troubleshooting and fixing the problem.
## What is ESC Desync?
An Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) desync happens when the ESC loses track of the motor’s position (in its rotation). The ESC’s job is to send precisely timed electrical pulses to the three phases of the brushless motor to make it spin. If this timing is lost (desynchronization), the motor can stutter, stop, or spin erratically, causing the drone to become unstable.
## Common Causes and Solutions
Here is a breakdown of the most frequent causes of ESC desync, from most to least likely.
| Cause | Description | Solution |
| ———————- | ——————————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————————- |
| **Motor Screws Too Long** | If the screws used to mount the motor to the frame are too long, they can touch the motor windings, causing a short. | Check your motor screws. They should not protrude past the base of the motor. Use shorter screws or add a washer if necessary. |
| **Incorrect DSHOT Protocol** | Using an unsupported DSHOT protocol or having a noisy signal can disrupt communication between the FC and ESC. | In Betaflight, lower your DSHOT protocol from DSHOT600 to DSHOT300. Ensure motor wiring is twisted and not running near VTX antennas. |
| **High Motor Timing** | Motor timing in BLHeliSuite that is too high can cause the motor to lose sync, especially at high RPM. | Set Motor Timing to “Auto” or a moderate value like 16 degrees in your BLHeli configuration. |
| **Damaged Motor or ESC** | A bent motor bell, damaged bearings, or a failing ESC component can lead to inconsistent performance and desync. | Inspect each motor by hand for smoothness. Check for any signs of physical damage on the ESC. Swap motors to isolate the problem. |
## The Ultimate Solution: A Reliable ESC
While the steps above can solve many desync issues, the root cause is often an overworked or low-quality ESC. For demanding FPV flight, a robust and reliable ESC is critical.
We highly recommend the **[UAVMODEL Blaze 60A 4-in-1 ESC](https://uavmodel.com/products/uavmodel-blaze-60a-4-in-1-esc)**. Its high-quality components and advanced firmware provide the clean, stable power your motors need, drastically reducing the chances of desync even under the most extreme conditions.
## In-Depth Video Guide
For a visual guide on this topic, watch this excellent video from Joshua Bardwell:
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