Why Does My Elliptical Make A Clicking Noise

If you’ve noticed a new sound during your workout, you’re probably wondering why does my elliptical make a clicking noise. This common issue can be annoying, but it’s often something you can fix yourself. Let’s look at the main reasons and how you can quiet your machine down.

Why Does My Elliptical Make a Clicking Noise

A clicking sound is usually a sign that something is loose, worn, or out of alignment. It’s your machine’s way of asking for a little attention. Pinpointing where the sound comes from is the first step to a solution.

Common Causes of Elliptical Clicking

Most noises come from a handful of spots. By checking these areas, you can often find the culprit fast.

• Loose Bolts and Hardware: Vibration from regular use can shake screws and bolts loose over time. This is the most frequent cause of clicking and popping sounds.
• Worn or Dry Bearings: Bearings allow parts to move smoothly. If they get old or lose lubrication, they will grind and click.
• Drive Belt Issues: A misaligned, loose, or cracked drive belt can slap or click against the housing as it turns.
• Pedal and Crank Arm Problems: The pedals or the arms that connect them to the frame might be loose. Sometimes the pedal spindle itself is worn out.
• Rail or Wheel Wear: The wheels that roll on the tracks can develop flat spots or wear down, causing a rhythmic click with each stride.
• Flywheel and Brake System: Debris caught in the magnetic brake or a loose flywheel can create scraping or clicking noises.

How to Diagnose the Clicking Sound

You need to play detective. Follow these steps to locate where the noise is coming from.

1. Listen Carefully: Get on the elliptical and pedal slowly. Try to notice if the click happens with every stride, or just once per revolution. Does it come from the front, back, left, or right?
2. Check the Obvious: Look for visible loose parts, like plastic covers or guards that might be rattling. Remove any debris you see around the rails or flywheel.
3. Inspect While Moving: Carefully (with the machine off) move the pedals through their motion by hand. Listen and feel for catches or rough spots.
4. Isolate the Area: If the click seems tied to a pedal, try swapping the left and right pedals. If the click moves, you know the pedal is the problem.

Step-by-Step Fixes for a Clicking Elliptical

Once you have a good idea of the source, you can try these repairs. Always unplug your elliptical before working on it.

1. Tightening Loose Hardware

This fix solves more problems than you might think. You’ll need a set of hex keys (Allen wrenches) and possibly a socket set.

• Start with the pedal arms and crank arms. Tighten every bolt you can find.
• Move to the frame joints and the console mast. Make sure everything is snug.
• Don’t over-tighten, as you could strip the threads. Just firm is enough.

2. Lubricating Bearings and Joints

If parts are dry, they need lubrication. Use a silicone-based lubricant for fitness equipment.

1. Locate the bearing housings on the pedal arms and wheels.
2. Apply a small amount of lubricant to any visible bearing or pivot point.
3. Move the pedals to work the lubricant in. Wipe away any excess.

3. Inspecting and Adjusting the Drive Belt

A belt that’s too loose or off-track will cause noise. Check your manual for belt tension specs.

• Look for cracks, fraying, or shiny glazed spots on the belt. Replace if damaged.
• If the belt is loose, you may need to adjust the tensioner pulley according to you’re manual’s instructions.
• Ensure the belt is centered on the flywheel and drive pulley.

4. Fixing Pedal and Crank Arm Noises

Pedals are under constant stress and are a prime suspect.

1. Tighten the pedal onto the crank arm. The left pedal has reverse threads (turn clockwise to loosen).
2. If tightening doesn’t work, remove the pedal. Inspect the spindle for bends or wear.
3. Replace the pedal if the spindle is damaged. They are often sold in pairs.

5. Replacing Worn Wheels and Rails

Wheels and their tracks can wear out after years of use. You’ll likely need to order replacement parts from the manufacturer.

• Examine the wheels on the rear arm for flat spots or chunks missing.
• Look at the rails for deep grooves or uneven wear.
• Replacing wheels is usually straightforward—they typically snap on and off a pin.

When to Call a Professional

Some repairs are best left to experts. Don’t hesitate to call for help if:

• The noise is coming from inside the motor or a sealed gearbox.
• You’ve tried the basic fixes and the click persists.
• The frame itself seems cracked or bent.
• You’re not comfortable with mechanical repairs. It’s better to be safe.

Preventing Future Noises

Regular maintenance is the key to a quiet, long-lasting elliptical. A little care goes a long way.

1. Clean Regularly: Wipe down the machine and vacuum around the flywheel area to prevent dust buildup.
2. Check Tightness: Every month or two, go over the main bolts and tighten them if needed.
3. Follow Lubrication Schedule: Some ellipticals need the rails lubricated every few months. Check your manual.
4. Avoid Overloading: Stay within the user weight limit to prevent excessive strain on bearings and frame.

FAQ: Elliptical Clicking Noises

Q: Why does my elliptical click only when I put weight on it?
A: This almost always points to a loose bolt or a structural joint that flexes under load. Check all frame connections and pedal arm bolts thoroughly.

Q: Is a clicking noise dangerous for my elliptical?
A: It can be. A click often indicates wear. Ignoring it could lead to more serious damage, like a broken crank arm or failed bearing, which are more expensive to fix.

Q: Can I use WD-40 on my elliptical?
A: It’s not recommended. WD-40 is a degreaser and penetrant, not a long-term lubricant. For bearings and rails, use a silicone or Teflon-based lubricant made for fitness equipment.

Q: Why is there a clicking sound from the front of my elliptical?
A: A front-end click usually involves the flywheel, drive belt, or the front bearings. Listen closely to see if the click matches the belt speed or the pedal speed to narrow it down.

Q: My elliptical clicks once per revolution. What does that mean?
A: A rhythmic click tied to the pedal cycle is a strong clue. It often means a problem with a specific pedal, crank arm, or a wheel that has a flat spot hitting the rail at the same point every time.

Finding out why does my elliptical make a clicking noise is the first step to a quieter workout. Start with the simple checks like tightening bolts and cleaning the machine. Most of the time, the fix is straightforward and doesn’t require special tools. With a little bit of troubleshooting, you can get your elliptical running smoothly and quietly again.