If your Xterra treadmill is starting to sound noisy or feels rough, you might need to learn how to reset lube on Xterra treadmill. This process is simpler than it sounds and can make your machine run smoothly again. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your treadmill in good shape for years.
How to Reset Lube on Xterra Treadmill
This heading might sound a bit technical, but it refers to resetting the maintenance reminder light. Most Xterra treadmills have a alert system that tells you when it’s time to lubricate the deck. Resetting this light after you’ve completed the lubrication is an important final step.
Why Lubrication and Resetting Matter
Your treadmill belt glides over a deck. Friction between them can cause wear, noise, and motor strain. Proper lubrication reduces this friction. The reminder light is there to help you stay on schedule. Forgetting to reset it means you’ll keep seeing the alert, and you might lose track of your actual maintenance timeline.
Ignoring this can lead to bigger problems. A dry treadmill has to work much harder, which can burn out the motor prematurely. It also makes your workout less enjoyable with that annoying squeaking sound.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
- 100% silicone-based treadmill lubricant. Do not use WD-40 or other household oils.
- A clean cloth or rag.
- A phillips-head screwdriver (for some models to lift the motor hood).
- Your treadmill’s user manual (helpful for model-specific details).
Step-by-Step: Lubricating Your Xterra Treadmill
First, you need to actually lubricate the treadmill before you can reset the indicator. Here’s how to do it safely.
1. Prepare the Treadmill
Unplug the treadmill from the wall outlet for safety. This prevents any accidental starts. If your model has a motor hood, you may need to remove a few screws to lift it up and access the sides of the deck better.
2. Locate the Lubrication Points
You’ll be applying lubricant under the belt, along the sides of the deck. Stand at the side of the treadmill. Gently lift the edge of the running belt up. You should be able to see the deck surface underneath. You don’t need to lift it very high, just enough to create a small gap.
3. Apply the Silicone Lubricant
With the belt lifted, apply a thin bead of silicone lubricant onto the deck. Focus on the areas about 2-3 inches from each side. A little goes a long way—you typically only need about a half-ounce total. Do not over-apply, as this can make a mess and attract dirt.
4. Spread the Lubricant Evenly
After applying the lubricant, lower the belt. Now, manually turn the belt by hand. You can also plug the treadmill back in, set it to a very slow speed (like 1-2 mph), and let it run for a minute or two. This helps spread the lubricant evenly across the entire deck surface.
How to Reset the Lube Maintenance Light
Now that the treadmill is lubricated, it’s time to reset the reminder. The exact method can vary slightly by model, but the following steps work for most Xterra treadmills.
- Ensure the treadmill is plugged in and the safety key is inserted.
- Stand on the side rails, so you are not on the walking belt.
- Press and hold the “Speed +” and “Incline +” buttons simultaneously. Sometimes it’s the “Speed +” and “Stop” buttons—check your manual if the first combo doesn’t work.
- While holding those buttons, insert the safety key (if it wasn’t already in).
- Continue holding the buttons for 3-5 seconds until you see the maintenance light flash or hear a beep.
- Release the buttons. The maintenance icon or message on the console should now be gone.
If that sequence doesn’t work, try this alternative: With the treadmill off and the safety key removed, press and hold the “Stop” button. While holding it, insert the safety key. Keep holding for a few seconds after the display lights up. This is a common reset for many electronic devices.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes the reset doesn’t go as planned. Here’s what to check.
- Light won’t reset: Double-check you are using the correct button combination for your specific model. The model number is usually on a sticker near the power cord.
- Belt still feels sticky or noisy: You may have used to much lubricant. Wipe excess from under the belt with a cloth and let it run to distribute. Also, ensure you used 100% silicone.
- No maintenance light was on: Some older models don’t have an electronic reminder. Just lubricate every 3-6 months based on usage.
- Treadmill won’t start after reset: Unplug it for 60 seconds to perform a full power cycle. This clears any temporary electronic glitches.
Creating a Maintenance Schedule
Don’t wait for the light to come on every time. Proactive care is better. A good rule is to lubricate your treadmill every three months if you use it regularly. If you use it more than 10 hours a week, consider lubing it every two months.
Also remember to clean the belt and deck surface regularly. Wipe down the console and handrails to prevent sweat damage. Vacuum underneath the treadmill to keep dust and debris from getting sucked into the motor.
FAQ Section
How often should I lube my Xterra treadmill?
For most users, every 3 to 6 months is sufficient. The maintenance reminder is programmed for a set interval, but your actual need depends on how much you use it. Heavy users should do it more often.
Can I use any silicone spray?
No. You must use a treadmill-specific, 100% silicone lubricant. Other sprays often contain additives or petroleum products that can damage the belt and deck. It’s worth buying the right product.
What does the lube light mean?
The lube light or “MAINT” message is a programmed reminder. It turns on after a certain number of hours of operation or miles on the belt. It’s a suggestion to check and likely apply lubricant.
My treadmill is still noisy after lubing, what’s wrong?
Noise could be from other parts. Check that all bolts and screws are tight. The noise might also come from the roller bearings or the motor itself, which require different fixes. Improper belt alignment can also cause a rubbing sound.
Is resetting the light absolutly necessary?
Yes, if you want the reminder to be accurate for next time. If you don’t reset it, the light will stay on or come back on too soon, confusing your maintenance schedule. It only takes a moment to do.
Keeping up with treadmill maintenance, including knowing how to reset the lube indicator, saves you money on repairs and ensures your workouts are smooth and quiet. Always refer to your specific owner’s manual for the most accurate instructions, as features can change between model years. With a little care, your Xterra treadmill will provide reliable service for a long time.