The only PS3 controller I have that can hold a charge is my original (non-rumbling) Six Axis. My other two, which are official Dual Shock 3 controllers, don't charge at all and only show a controller icon with a dash sign behind it (and no battery icon at all) on the screen when you attach the charger cord and check the battery charge using the PS button.

Is this a common thing? Like the way original PS1 consoles used to fuck up en masse after so many years (when you had to play them upside down).

Shit like this is why I prefer using standard rechargeable batteries. I swear, I have some of the WORST luck with electronics.