Dualshock 4 CUCH-ZTC1E Dpad not working at all - New to repairs

Hey guys! I just recently decided id like to get into repairing stuff as a hobby, so far ive had pretty good luck however im currently left with a DS4 pad that I cant figure out whatsoever.

Every function on the controller works as it should apart from the dpad which shows no input at all. I've tried rubbing some 99% IPA on the flex circuit and also on the button membrane and ive tried hitting the reset button too.

I do have quite a bit of equipment at my disposal so any suggestions are welcome!

I am open to buying a new flex circuit if need be but I'd much rather take a crack at fixing it before simply replacing it (assuming it's the flex circuit thats the issue)