Elliptical Noise

Your elliptical is engineered and manufactured to the strictest industry standards and tolerances. All elliptical trainers, no matter the manufacturer, have a multitude of moving linkages and parts. Be aware that even with the tightest mechanical tolerances there still could be a slight amount of play between some parts. This inherent play can result in slight noises during use such as clicks and small thumps. Please expect that your elliptical will not be completely silent.

Identifying the Noise

Before you troubleshoot the machine’s inner components, start by determining the following:

• Where the noise is coming from. Figure out where the noise seems to be coming from on your machine and prioritize this area when troubleshooting.
• How often the noise occurs. Knowing whether the noise occurs consistently throughout the entire rotation of your pedaling motion, or whether it occurs only once or twice per rotation, will help narrow down the source of the noise. 
• When the noise occurs. Determine if the noise occurs every time you pedal, or if it only occurs during certain instances. The noise may only occur (or become more noticeable) when your elliptical is at a particular setting, when it is connected to power, or when you use your machine in a particular way. Try pedaling with the machine unplugged to see if the noise still occurs. 
• If you can “feel” the noise during use. Knowing whether the noise coincides with part of your pedaling motion will further narrow down potential causes.

Types of Elliptical Noise

Causes of elliptical noise include the surface on which the elliptical is placed and using the elliptical incorrectly. Mechanical causes include worn bearings and belts or loose belts and other parts. Some elliptical noise during operation is normal; the friction of the parts rubbing together creates some amount of noise.

To prevent elliptical noise from improper use, place the elliptical on a lightly carpeted surface or place a mat underneath it. Before each use, check for loose parts and tighten as needed. To address mechanical noise causes, inspect and replace bearings and belts, if necessary.

Grinding Noise

• A grinding sound near the bottom of the elliptical that only occurs when you pedal may be coming from a loose or defective crank, pulley, or flywheel bearing. For assistance resolving this noise, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511.

Squeaking Noise

To keep your elliptical operating smoothly and reduce noise, you may apply a small amount of silicone spray once weekly on the brake pads. XTERRA does not recommend the use of lubricants or other cleaning solutions to resolve squeaking. Use of lubricants or cleaning solutions other than those specified will result in diminished performance and a shorter life span for that part.

• When there’s a squeak coming from the flywheel area, it could be caused by dirty or worn brake pads vibrating against the rim. Clean the braking surface and apply a small amount of silicone spray. If this cleaning does not resolve the noise, you may need to replace your brake pads if they’re worn and toe them in toward the rim. If your elliptical is still within the limitations of its warranty, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511 to receive replacement pads.
• If you have a squeak in the same general area as your elliptical belt mechanism and you’re sure a dirty or worn belt isn’t the problem, a loose screw may be the culprit. Check each of your elliptical's screws and see if any have come loose. Retighten to see if it solves the problem. If it’s still occurring, it could be a problem with your pedal. For assistance, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511.