New PS3 controller won't sync with PS3
Have you tried in that order ?
- Plug the USB port on the controller to the PS3
- Turn on the PS3
- Reset the controller
- Turn it on with the PS3 button in the middle
- Unplug it
It happened to me once and that worked!
I think the problem might be because you've reset the controller before turning on the PS3 plugged in.
If not, I think something might be damaged since you're opened it to paint. :S