Why Is My Recliner Making a Grinding or Clicking Noise?
Unusual noises from an electric recliner or lift chair are one of the most common signs that a component is worn or failing. The type of noise — grinding, clicking, squeaking or straining — usually points to a specific part. This guide explains what each noise means and what to check first. If you are unsure which system is fitted to your chair, start with our guide to identifying Okin, Kaidi, Limoss and Dewert recliner systems.
Grinding Noise
A grinding noise during recliner operation almost always indicates a mechanical issue with the actuator or motor.
- Worn actuator: The most common cause. The internal gears or lead screw inside the actuator have worn and are grinding against each other. The actuator should be replaced.
- Mechanical obstruction: An object caught in the recliner mechanism can cause a grinding sound as the motor tries to push past it. Check under and around the chair for obstructions before assuming the motor has failed.
- Dry or corroded mechanism: Metal-on-metal contact in the chair frame or pivot points can produce a grinding sound. Check the mechanical linkages and apply a suitable lubricant to pivot points if accessible.
If the actuator is confirmed faulty, follow our step-by-step actuator replacement guide.
Clicking Noise
A clicking noise can come from several different sources depending on when it occurs.
- Clicking when a button is pressed but the chair doesn’t move: This is usually the relay in the control box activating. If the relay clicks but the motor does not respond, the fault is likely in the motor, actuator or the cable between the control box and the motor.
- Clicking during movement: A repetitive clicking during operation often indicates a worn actuator with a damaged lead screw or internal gear. The actuator should be inspected and replaced if worn.
- Single click at the end of travel: A single click when the chair reaches its fully open or closed position is normal — this is the mechanism reaching its end stop.
If the click occurs when a handset button is pressed, compare the handset and connector with our connector identification guide and handset replacement guide.
Squeaking Noise
Squeaking is usually caused by friction between metal or plastic components rather than a motor fault.
- Frame or mechanism squeak: Pivot points, hinges and metal linkages in the chair frame can squeak when dry. Apply a suitable lubricant such as a silicone spray or white lithium grease to the pivot points.
- Actuator squeak: A squeaking actuator may indicate the external tube or mounting points need lubrication. If lubrication does not resolve the squeak, the actuator may need replacement.
- Plastic component squeak: Plastic covers or trim pieces rubbing against the frame can squeak during movement. Check that all covers are correctly seated and not catching on the mechanism.
Straining or Labouring Noise
A motor that sounds like it is straining or working harder than usual may indicate an overload condition or a failing actuator.
- Check that the chair is not loaded beyond its rated weight capacity.
- Check for mechanical obstructions in the recliner mechanism.
- A power supply that is undersized for the chair’s motor load can cause the motor to strain. Confirm the power supply amperage matches or exceeds the original specification.
- A worn actuator with increased internal friction will cause the motor to work harder. If the straining noise has developed gradually over time, the actuator is likely worn and should be replaced.
If the chair is also moving slowly or stopping mid-cycle, see our slow-movement troubleshooting guide.
How to Identify Which Component Is Making the Noise
- Operate the chair slowly and listen carefully to identify where the noise is coming from — front, rear, left or right side of the mechanism.
- If the chair has two motors, operate each function independently (backrest and footrest separately) to isolate which motor is producing the noise.
- Check for visible damage, wear or corrosion on the actuator, cables and mechanical linkages.
- Check for obstructions in the mechanism before assuming a component has failed.
Before ordering a motor or actuator, read our guide to reading a recliner motor label so you can record the correct model and specifications.
Common Noise Symptoms and Likely Causes
- Grinding during movement: Worn actuator, mechanical obstruction or dry pivot points.
- Clicking when button pressed, no movement: Control box relay activating — fault in motor, actuator or cable.
- Repetitive clicking during movement: Worn actuator lead screw or internal gear.
- Squeaking during movement: Dry pivot points, hinges or plastic trim rubbing.
- Straining or labouring sound: Overload, mechanical obstruction, undersized power supply or worn actuator.
- Single click at end of travel: Normal end-stop behaviour.
Frequently Asked Questions
My recliner started making a grinding noise suddenly. Does the motor need replacing?
Not necessarily. Check for a mechanical obstruction first — an object caught in the mechanism can cause a sudden grinding noise without any motor fault. If no obstruction is found and the grinding persists, the actuator is the most likely cause and should be inspected.
Can I lubricate a recliner actuator to stop the noise?
External lubrication of the actuator tube and mounting points can help with squeaking. However, grinding noises from inside the actuator indicate internal wear that lubrication will not fix. A grinding actuator should be replaced.
My recliner clicks when I press the button but doesn’t move. Is the motor broken?
The click is the control box relay activating, which means the handset and control box are working. The fault is likely in the motor, actuator or the cable between the control box and the motor. Check the cable connections first, then inspect the actuator.
How do I know if my recliner actuator needs replacing?
Signs that an actuator needs replacing include grinding or clicking during operation, the chair moving slowly or stopping mid-cycle, the chair moving in one direction only, or visible damage to the actuator body or cable.
Step 6: Contact CouchGuard
If you have worked through the checks above and still need help identifying the fault or sourcing a replacement part, call 1300 268 244 or email info@couchguard.com.au.
Shop CouchGuard’s range of recliner motors and actuators with fast Australia-wide shipping.