Mouse for a PC that won't track horizontally?

Answer 1

Usually the ball is dirty or the wheel inside that rides on the ball has become caked with junk. Turn over the mouse and remove the ball, you'll probably need to turn the retaining plate, but some are a little different. Figure that part out by looking at the bottom of the mouse.

Once the ball is out, clean and dry it. Then look at the three wheels inside, where the ball just came out. If the mouse isn't tracking horizontally, the SIDE wheel is probably dirty. Use a cotton tipped cleaner and a little alcohol to clean the wheel. Don't put too much pressure on it but it's ok to turn the wheel while you clean it.

When you're finished, put the DRY ball back in and close the retainer.

The mouse should work now, unless there is something seriously wrong with the mouse, in which case, don't worry, they're cheap.