April 19, 2023

DIY elliptical repair

An elliptical is a stationary exercise machine that simulates stair-climbing, walking or running, all the while providing a low-impact, cardiovascular workout. However, your fitness routine can suffer if your machine isn't working correctly—maybe the console won't turn on or it's displaying an incorrect speed.

If you're having problems with your elliptical, try Sears PartsDirect's troubleshooting guidance below to help you narrow down the cause, and use our DIY repair guides for step-by-step instructions to fix the problem. Get the most out of your elliptical by following the tips on our articles and videos page. To find the owner’s manual or a complete list of replacement parts for your elliptical, search for your model number.

Elliptical Machines

Symptoms for elliptical machines

Choose a symptom to see related elliptical repairs.

Main causes: bad resistance motor, faulty control console, wiring failure
Main causes: faulty reed switch, reed switch needs adjustment, wiring failure, bad control console
Main cause: lack of lubrication on pivot points
Main causes: dirty heart rate sensors, wiring failure, bad control console
Main causes: loose fastening bolts, damaged handle bars
Main causes: weak batteries, loose wires, faulty control console
Main causes: dead batteries, power supply failure, bad wiring connections, faulty control console
Main causes: leveling feet need to be adjusted, loose frame bolts, unstable flooring

Repair guides for elliptical machines

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your elliptical.

How to replace an elliptical resistance motor

If the resistance motor is not changing the resistance on your elliptical, replace it using these steps.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to adjust an elliptical reed switch

If the console doesn't display the correct speed on your elliptical, adjust the reed switch using these steps.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace an elliptical console

If the console on your elliptical doesn't work, replace it by following these 3 easy steps.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Articles and videos for elliptical machines

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your elliptical.

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How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

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June 29, 2022

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

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Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.

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How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working

June 01, 2015

Elliptical common questions

Elliptical common questions

Find out what questions other elliptical owners often ask.

May 04, 2015

Easy DIY elliptical repairs

Easy DIY elliptical repairs

Learn about some easy elliptical repairs that you can do yourself.

April 24, 2015

How to maintain an elliptical

How to maintain an elliptical

Discover how to keep your elliptical trainer in good shape with these easy maintenance tips.