Rowing machine squeaking or seat sticking

Find where the noise comes from

Row slowly with no effort and listen. A squeak that follows the seat up and down the rail points to the rail or rollers. A noise only on the drive, when the handle is pulled, points to the chain, strap or flywheel area. A creak when you push with the legs often comes from the footplate or frame bolts.

Then slide the seat by hand with nobody on it. If it moves smoothly when empty but sticks under load, the rollers or their bearings are the likely cause. If it sticks in one spot, look for dirt, a dent or a burr on the rail at that point.

Clean the rail and seat rollers

The rail is the most common culprit. Wipe it along its full length with a damp, lint-free cloth, then dry it. Many makers advise against oiling or greasing the rail itself, because grease attracts dust and can make the seat slip or stick; check your manual. Concept2, for example, advises wiping the monorail regularly.

Tip the seat or look underneath it and check the rollers. Remove hair, fluff and grit wrapped around the wheels or axles. Spin each roller with a finger: it should turn freely and quietly. A flat spot, crack or rough bearing means the roller is worn.

1. 1

   Slide the seat to one end of the rail.

2. 2

   Wipe the rail with a damp, lint-free cloth and dry it.

3. 3

   Repeat with the seat at the other end.

4. 4

   Clear hair and grit from the seat rollers.

5. 5

   Spin each roller to check it turns smoothly.

Chain, strap and pulleys

Air rowers such as the Concept2 RowErg use a chain. A dry chain can squeak and feel rough. Concept2's manual describes wiping the chain and applying a light oil at regular intervals; follow the product and interval in your own manual, and wipe off any excess so it does not drip on the floor.

Water and many magnetic rowers use a strap or belt instead. Straps should be kept clean and dry and should not be oiled. Check the full length for fraying or cuts by pulling it out slowly. A frayed strap should be replaced before it breaks. Also check that the return mechanism pulls the handle back smoothly; a weak or noisy return can mean a worn shock cord or recoil spring.

Note:Never row with a frayed strap, a damaged chain or a cracked seat. Keep fingers clear of the chain, strap and pulleys when inspecting them, and unplug any rower that uses mains power before removing covers. If a repair needs the machine dismantled, contact the maker's support.

Seat pads, bolts and when to buy parts

A worn seat cushion does not squeak, but it can make the seat uncomfortable on longer sessions. Some makers, including Concept2, sell seat pads and replacement seats. For other brands, check the seller's parts list or contact support with your model number, which is usually on a sticker under the rail or near the monitor.

Go round the frame bolts, the footplate bolts and the joint where a folding rail locks. Folding and upright-storing rowers have extra joints that can loosen as they are moved. If you are replacing an older machine, our best rowing machines guide and small spaces guide list how each rower stores and folds.

Prevent it coming back

Wipe the rail and seat after each session, and the handle and footplates every so often. Keep the rower on a mat to reduce dust and protect the floor; our mats article covers lengths for long rowers. Store it away from damp garages if possible, as moisture can cause corrosion on rails and bolts.

Check the strap or chain once a month and the bolts every few months. If your rower is under warranty, keep a note of what you have done, as some makers ask about maintenance when handling a claim.

Frequently asked questions

Should I oil a rowing machine rail? Usually not. Most makers advise wiping the rail clean and dry, as oil or grease attracts dust. Check your manual, because advice differs between brands.

Why does my rowing seat stick in one place? Look for grit, a dent or a burr on the rail at that point, and check the rollers for hair or flat spots.

Where can I buy Concept2 parts in the UK? Concept2 sells spare parts such as seat pads, rollers and chains through its UK website. For other brands, contact the maker or seller with your model number.

Is a squeaking water rower normal? The water itself makes a soft swoosh, but a squeak usually comes from the rail, rollers or strap. Clean those first, then check the bolts.