April 19, 2023

Elliptical Machine: Why does my elliptical display the wrong speed?

A problem with the reed switch, wiring failure or faulty console can cause the elliptical to display the wrong speed.

Unplug the elliptical if it has a power cord and check the position of the reed switch if displayed speed is extremely slow when you're treading at a fast pace. The reed switch won't detect the crank arm pulley magnet if the switch is too far away from the pulley. Adjust the reed switch closer to the pulley so the reed switch detects the magnet and sends the proper speed signal to the console.

If the reed switch is properly positioned close to the crank arm pulley, check wiring between the reed switch and the console. Reconnect any loose wires and repair any broken wires.

If the wires are okay, you may need to replace the console because it isn't displaying the correct speed even though it's receiving the correct speed signal from the reed switch.

elliptical machine

THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR ELLIPTICAL MACHINE PROBLEM

JC-ELL-Adjust-the-reed-switch

Adjust the elliptical reed switch

The reed switch detects a magnet attached to the rotating pulley to sense the elliptical's speed. The reed switch transmits the speed signal to the console, which displays the user data. If the console doesn't display the correct speed, the reed switch may not be close enough to the magnet. Adjust the position of the reed switch.

Adjust the elliptical reed switch

Find the required part specific to your product.

RG-ELL-Replace-Elliptical-Reed-Switch-Intro-Image
June 01, 2015

How to adjust an elliptical reed switch

If pedaling your elliptical feels the same at every resistance setting, the resistance motor could be the problem. This repair guide and video show how to replace an elliptical resistance motor in 30 minutes or less.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
JC-ELL-Replace-the-console

Replace the elliptical console

The console displays the elapsed time, distance traveled, estimated calories burned, current speed and the user's pulse. If the console doesn't light up, replace the battery. If the problem continues, replace the console assembly. The console also controls the resistance motor. Replace the console if it fails to adjust the resistance motor.

Elliptical console

Find the required part specific to your product.

RG-ELL-Replace-Elliptical-Console-Intro-Image
June 01, 2015

How to replace an elliptical console

If your elliptical console won't turn on or if the console display isn't working, the console might be broken. The DIY repair guide and video show how to replace an elliptical console in 3 quick steps.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Symptoms for elliptical machines

Choose a symptom to see related elliptical repairs.

Main causes: leveling feet need to be adjusted, loose frame bolts, unstable flooring…

Main causes: dead batteries, power supply failure, bad wiring connections, faulty control console…

Main causes: loose fastening bolts, damaged handle bars…

Main causes: weak batteries, loose wires, faulty control console…

Main causes: bad resistance motor, faulty control console, wiring failure…

Main causes: faulty reed switch, reed switch needs adjustment, wiring failure, bad control console…

Main cause: lack of lubrication on pivot points…

Main causes: dirty heart rate sensors, wiring failure, bad control console…

Repair guides for elliptical machines

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your elliptical.

How to replace an elliptical resistance motor

How to replace an elliptical resistance motor

If the resistance motor is not changing the resistance on your elliptical, replace it using these steps.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to adjust an elliptical reed switch

How to adjust an elliptical reed switch

If the console doesn't display the correct speed on your elliptical, adjust the reed switch using these steps.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace an elliptical console

How to replace an elliptical console

If the console on your elliptical doesn't work, replace it by following these 3 easy steps.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your fitness & exercise

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your elliptical.

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…