How to Fix a Recliner that Won’t Close – [Problem Solved]

Last Updated on October 31, 2024 by John

Do you have a problem with your recliner seat? Are you looking for a proper solution and want to learn how to fix a recliner that won’t close? If yes, then you have come to the right place.

In this article, we will walk you through a complete and step-by-step solution to the problem. At the end of this article, you can fix your broken recliner seat at home without calling any professional.

However, if you are looking for a quick solution, then you can skip the article and go to the bottom of this page. Here, we have provided a complete step-by-step guide on how to fix a recliner that won’t close quickly.

Once the footrest is released, it will fold up automatically if there is no obstruction or obstacle between the frame and the base. Sometimes it happens that, even if you release the footrest from its locked position, it doesn’t fold up automatically.

In this case, there may be a problem with the recliner’s locking mechanism or the locking pawl.

To release the footrest manually, follow the given guide:

Step 1: Check out the Power Cable

The first and the most basic solution is to check out the power cable. Sometimes, in order to prevent it from folding up while you are still using it, the footrest is held in place with a locking mechanism that allows the footrest to be released only when there is no power supply to the recliner.

If this is your situation, check out the following:

1. Ensure that the power is not interrupted at all.
2. Check if the footrest’s locking mechanism is turned off completely.

If you find any interruptions in your power supply, then here are a few things you can check out:

1. Inspect the plug socket and ensure it is plugged properly to its designated power source;
2. Ensure that the wires are properly connected to your socket;
3. Check your power supply unit if it has tripped and needs to be reset. On the other hand, if everything is fine and turned on and you still feel that there is a problem with the locking mechanism, then we have got another step for you.

Step 2: Switch Sides for the Power Cord

As mentioned earlier, it is possible that your recliner may not be functioning properly due to a damaged outlet. Sometimes the power cord connected to a damaged power outlet will result in frequent problems related to the recliner mechanism.

Since the motor of the seat run on stead current, therefore, you can switch sides of the power cord. If the side was causing the problem, your recliner may start working normally now.

However, if nothing happens, then perhaps this isn’t the main cause of the issue. Under such conditions, you will need to move on to the next step.

Step 3: Check the Seat Switch

The seat switch is another possible cause of this problem. The seat switch controls the reclining motion of your seat. If you find that it isn’t working properly, your footrest won’t be able to fold up automatically.

The seat switch may get damaged due to prolonged use leading to problems in the functioning of the recliner.

Here is how you can check it:

1. Switch off the power supply to your recliner;
2. Locate the electrical box and open it;
3. Check out all wires connected to your seat switch;
4. If any of them is burnt, then replace the damaged wire immediately.

Step 4: Check for Burnt Wiring

Even if the seat switch is working properly, it may still result in problems related to your recliner. This may happen due to faulty wiring. Sometimes, over time certain wires inside your electrical box can also get damaged leading to problems with your recliner’s mechanism.

To check this out, follow these steps:

1. Switch off the power supply to your recliner and locate its electrical box;
2. Check each and every wire in the box;
3. If you find any burnt wires, then replace them immediately.

Step 5: Reset Your Recliner’s Locking Mechanism

A damaged seat switch may also result in frequent problems with your recliner’s locking mechanism. This is because, the switch triggers the recliner to lock and unlock from its locked position.

To reset your locking mechanism, follow these steps:

1. Switch off the power supply of your recliner;
2. Locate the locked position of your footrest and pull it towards you;
3. Now, release it slowly and it will lock into its original place;

If you find that the locking mechanism is still not working, then try the same procedure all over again. If this doesn’t help either, then move on to our next step.

Step 6: Try Resetting Your Recliner’s Motor Assembly

The motor assembly is another possible reason for problems with the mechanism of your reclining chair. Just like your seat switch, your motor assembly may also get damaged due to prolonged use leading to frequent problems related to the recliner.

In order to reset it, follow these steps:

1. Switch off the power supply of your recliner;
2. Locate the circuit box and open it;

Locate the motor section and switch off its power supply. You will find a wire connected to the motor assembly. Disconnect this wire from the circuit box and then reconnect it back to reset your recliner’s motor assembly.

If you can do that, your problem with the locking mechanism is now resolved. However, if the problem still persists, then continue with our next step.

Step 7: Replace a Damaged Motor

If both the seat switch and motor assembly are working properly but your recliner is still not locking or unlocking from its locked position, then you will have to replace a damaged motor because it may be preventing your recliner from locking properly.

1. To replace a damaged motor, follow these steps:
2. Switch off the power supply of your recliner;
3. Locate the circuit box and open it;

Remove the wires connected to the faulty motor section and replace them with new ones. You can now switch on the power supply of your recliner again to check if the problem still persists.

Step 8: Replace Your Recliner’s Circuit Board

If both the seat switch and motor assembly are working properly but your recliner is still not locking or unlocking from its locked position, then you will have to replace a damaged circuit board of your recliner which may be preventing you from getting complete access to your recliner.

To replace the circuit board, follow these steps:

• Switch off the power supply of your recliner;
• Locate the circuit box and open it;
• Remove wires connected to faulty motor section;

Now, open the cabinet where you will find a circuit board mounted on metal brackets. Disconnect it carefully and then replace it with a new one. You can now switch on the power supply of your recliner again to check if the problem still persists.

So, these are some simple troubleshooting steps, which you should follow to resolve issues related to your reclining chair’s locking mechanism.

Even though this is not a very complicated process, you need to be very careful while performing it because improper or wrong repair can further damage your reclining chair.

So, handle the repairing process with care and follow all the steps carefully for the best results. If you are still unable to fix locking problems of your recliner after following all these steps, then contact a professional recliner repair service.

Common Problems that Causes the Footrest to Stuck

Now that you know how to fix a recliner that won’t close, let’s take you through the main causes. In this section, you will learn what causes the footrest of the recliner seat to be stuck, therefore, causing all the trouble.

Once you learn the main reasons, then solving the issue won’t be a problem at all.

Let’s see what causes the recliner footrest to stuck.

Too Much Pressure on the Recliner’s Footrest

If there is too much pressure on the footrest, then it may get locked and cause problems. The reclining mechanism of your recliner can hold up to 250 pounds, which means you should not sit on the footrest if it is in a closed position.

Excessive pressure requires a lot of power to be moved and can result in problems. So, make sure your feet are not on the footrest while reclining or rising from its seats.

Regular Cleaning

If you do not clean the footrest regularly, then it may get stuck with dirt and dust. In order to keep your chair clean, take a wet cloth and clean the footrest daily.

If you do not clean your recliner, then it will lose its smoothness. This may cause problems with the reclining mechanism and cause the footrest to stick. You should also use a vacuum cleaner to remove all dirt particles from inside your recliner before they get stuck on the footrest.

Damaged Footrest Hinge

If the footrest hinge is damaged, it may not open easily and cause problems. This may also create a lot of pressure on the recline mechanism, preventing the footrest from closing after lowering it. So, if you find any problems with your footrest hinge or linkage, then get it repaired by a professional repairman.

Footrest Hinge Replacement

Replacing the footrest hinge is another way to fix your recliner’s locking problem. If your reclining chair has a damaged or broken hinge, then you should replace it with a new one. This will also prevent further damage of your chair’s recline mechanism.

See Also: How to Fix a Recliner Footrest

Final Words

If you have followed our step-by-step guide, we hope you have fixed your recliner seat now. We know it can be a pretty frustrating process, but we hope that this article has helped you in solving your locking problem with the recliner.

Lastly, if the problem still persists after following all these steps then you should contact a professional recliner repair service who will be able to fix it for you without charging an arm and a leg!

Moreover, we hope you’ve enjoyed reading our guide on how to fix a recliner that won’t close. If you did, please don’t forget to share it with your friends and family using the social buttons.