If your treadmill suddenly stops or shows an error, knowing how to reset a treadmill that is not working can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to get you moving again, from basic checks to full system resets.
How to Reset a Treadmill That Is Not Working
Before you try a full reset, it’s smart to perform some basic checks. Often, the problem is simpler than you think. These quick steps can solve many common treadmill issues without needing any technical skills.
Initial Safety and Power Checks
Always start with safety. Make sure you are not standing on the walking belt. Remove the safety key from it’s console. This simple act can sometimes clear an error state.
- Check the Power Source: Ensure the power cord is firmly plugged into a working wall outlet. Try plugging another device into the same outlet to test it.
- Inspect the Power Cord: Look for any visible damage, fraying, or bent pins on the cord.
- Verify the Safety Key: The safety key must be fully inserted. Clean the contacts on the key and console with a dry cloth if they look dirty.
- Look for Circuit Breakers: Some treadmills have a reset button on the motor hood or a fuse near the plug. Press any reset buttons you find.
Common Error Codes and Thier Meanings
If your display shows an error code, this is your treadmill telling you whats wrong. Refer to your owner’s manual first, as codes vary by brand. Here are some typical ones:
- E1 or E2: Often related to motor or drive system issues.
- E5 or E6: Usually indicates a problem with the incline motor or sensor.
- E8 or E9: Frequently connected to speed sensor errors.
- LO or LC: May mean the console is not communicating with the lower electronic board.
Writing down the exact code before you reset can be helpful for troubleshooting if the problem returns.
The Standard Soft Reset Procedure
A soft reset is like restarting your computer. It clears the treadmill’s temporary memory without affecting your stored data. This fixes many electronic glitches.
- Pause any program and bring the speed and incline to zero.
- Remove the safety key from the console.
- Unplug the treadmill’s power cord from the wall outlet. Do not just turn off a power strip.
- Wait for at least 60 seconds. This allows any remaining power to drain from the system.
- While it’s unplugged, you can also press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to discharge any residual current.
- Plug the power cord directly back into the wall outlet.
- Reinsert the safety key firmly.
- Turn the treadmill on and test it.
When a Soft Reset Isn’t Enough
If the soft reset didn’t work, the problem might be more persistent. The next step is to check for mechanical obstructions. Make sure the belt is centered and can move freely by hand. Also, vacuum under and around the treadmill to remove dust that can interfere with sensors.
Performing a Factory Reset
A factory reset will restore the treadmill to its original out-of-the-box settings. You will lose all personal data like saved workouts and user profiles. Use this as a last resort before calling for service.
- Ensure the treadmill is in the ready state (powered on but not active).
- Locate the reset pinhole button on the console (often near the power button) or find the specific button combination in your manual.
- If using a pinhole, use a paperclip to press and hold the button for 5-10 seconds.
- If using a button combo (e.g., Speed + and Incline + together), press and hold as instructed.
- The display will likely go blank and then reboot, showing the initial setup screen.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to recalibrate speed, incline, and set your preferences.
Not all treadmills have a user-accessible factory reset. If you can’t find the method, your manual is the best resource.
Brand-Specific Reset Tips
Different brands have slightly different procedures. Here’s a quick look at some popular ones.
NordicTrack and ProForm Treadmills
These brands often use iFit technology. A common reset involves pressing the iFit button and the speed increase button simultaneously for a few seconds. Also, try the 60-second power cord unplug method, as it frequently resolves console freezes.
Bowflex and Nautilus Treadmills
Check for a small reset button on the back of the console or near the power input. Holding the “Stop” and “Speed Up” buttons while powering on is another common reset sequence for these models.
Sole Fitness Treadmills
Sole often recommends the standard 60-second power drain. For a deeper reset, try holding down the “Quick Speed” and “Quick Incline” buttons (like 3 mph and 2% incline) together for several seconds after powering on.
Mechanical Issues That Mimic Electrical Problems
Sometimes, the treadmill thinks there’s an error because of a physical jam. Before you decide the electronics are broken, check these things.
- Belt Alignment: A badly misaligned belt can trigger a sensor error. Learn to center and tension your belt properly.
- Debris Under the Belt: Small objects can get stuck, creating drag and causing the motor to overheat or error out.
- Worn Drive Belt: A loose or glazed drive belt (the one inside connecting the motor to the roller) can cause slippage and errors.
- Friction/Burn Smell: This often points to a worn belt or motor issue needing lubrication or professional service.
Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Future Resets
Regular care reduces the chance you’ll need to figure out how to reset a treadmill that is not working. A little maintenance goes a long way.
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down the console and vacuum underneath the machine weekly to prevent dust buildup.
- Lubricate the Deck: Follow your manual’s schedule (usually every 3-6 months) to apply silicone lubricant under the walking belt.
- Check Belt Tension: Monthly, make sure the belt is centered and has the proper tightness (it should lift about 2-3 inches off the deck in the middle).
- Dedicated Circuit: Plug your treadmill into its own wall outlet if possible to prevent power surges from other appliances.
- Use a Surge Protector: A good quality surge protector can save the sensitive electronics from voltage spikes.
When to Call a Professional Technician
If you’ve tried all resets and basic checks but the treadmill still won’t work, it’s time to call for help. Here are the signs:
- You smell burning or see smoke during operation.
- The motor makes loud grinding or screeching noises.
- The console remains completely dead after all power checks.
- Error codes immediately return after a successful reset.
- You see visible damage to wires, the motor, or the console.
Attempting to repair serious internal electrical or mechanical problems yourself can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
FAQ: Treadmill Reset Questions
Where is the reset button on my treadmill?
It’s often a small pinhole on the console, near the power input, or on the motor cover. If you don’t see one, the reset function is usually activated by a specific button combination. Always check the user manual first.
Why won’t my treadmill turn on at all?
Start with the basics: a faulty outlet, a tripped household circuit breaker, a loose or damaged power cord, or a missing safety key. If those are all fine, an internal fuse or component may have failed.
How do I reset my treadmill’s computer?
The “soft reset” (unplugging for 60+ seconds) is the standard way to reset the treadmill’s computer brain. This clears its temporary memory and reboots the system.
What does it mean if my treadmill keeps stopping?
Frequent stopping usually indicates an issue with the safety key not making good contact, a misaligned walking belt creating too much drag, or a problem with the speed sensor. Check these areas after performing a reset.
Can I fix a treadmill that shows an “E” error?
Sometimes. A reset might clear a temporary sensor glitch causing the “E” error. But if the error returns immediately, it points to a specific hardware fault (like a broken sensor or motor issue) that likely needs professional diagnosis.
By following this guide, you can safely troubleshoot and often resolve your treadmill’s issues. Remember, regular maintenance is the best way to prevent problems and ensure you machine lasts for many miles to come.