Flexsteel Recliner Problems: A Comprehensive Guide

Flexsteel recliners are popular for their superior comfort and smooth reclining function. However, like any mechanical device, they can develop issues over time that affect performance. In this comprehensive DIY guide, we will explore the most common Flexsteel recliner problems and provide tips to diagnose and fix them yourself.

Flexsteel is an American furniture manufacturer known for its high-quality upholstered furniture since 1929. The company uses premium-grade materials and sturdy mechanical construction in its reclining chairs and sofas.

Flexsteel recliners feature thick padded cushions, smoothly operating reclining mechanisms, and plush upholstery. Most models have power adjustability with buttons to recline the backrest and activate the extending footrest.

The reclining functionality relies on mechanical linkages, gears, springs, levers, and motors. Over years of use, these components can loosen, wear out, or malfunction. Let’s look at some of the most prevalent issues with Flexsteel recliners.

Common Flexsteel Recliner Problems

Here are some of the typical problems faced by Flexsteel recliner owners:

1. Power Button Not Working

If the power recline buttons on your Flexsteel chair have stopped working, there could be a few reasons behind it.

• Faulty electrical connection: Check that the power cord is firmly plugged into the wall outlet. Try connecting to another outlet to ensure there is power supply.
• Bad switch: The switch on the recliner connecting to the power buttons could be damaged. Replace the switch.
• Loose wiring: Open the control box to inspect the wiring harness. Refasten any loose connections.
• Blown fuse: The electrical fuse may have blown out. Check and replace the fuse if needed.
• Defective control box: If the wires and connections seem fine, the control box containing the control circuitry may be defective. Replace the control box.

2. Recliner Not Reclining Smoothly

If you feel significant resistance when reclining your Flexsteel chair, it could indicate issues in the recline mechanism.

• Dry joints: Lubricate all pivot joints and linkages in the reclining mechanism using silicone spray.
• Broken spring: Open the base to inspect the main torsion spring. Replace it if found broken.
• Bent recline linkage: Check movable parts like connecting rods and gears for damage. Replace bent components.
• Obstruction under chair: Make sure there are no objects stuck under the chair impeding the recline motion.

3. Uneven Reclining

When a Flexsteel recliner does not recline evenly, with one side dipping lower than the other, it points to a problem with the reclining mechanism.

• Incorrectly latched mechanism: Open the base and ensure all the latching pins and brackets are correctly meshed.
• Broken spring coils: Inspect the main torsion spring for broken coils. Replace damaged springs.
• Worn bushings: Lubricate or replace any worn nylon bushings on pivot joints.
• Bent reclining rods: Check connecting rods and replace any bent parts.

4. Squeaking Noises

As recliners age, they can start making squeaking sounds due to wear and tear of parts rubbing against each other.

• Dry joints: Lubricate pivot joints, sliders, gears, and pulleys using silicone grease.
• Loose fasteners: Tighten screws on brackets and tighten nuts on bolts.
• Worn bushings: Check nylon bushings around pivot shafts and replace if badly worn.
• Loose recline linkage: Tighten nuts and screws on connecting rods and gears.

5. Footrest Not Extending Fully

If the footrest does not extend fully when reclining your Flexsteel product, it usually indicates an obstruction.

• Blocked under-seat area: Clear any objects stuck under the seat impeding footrest motion.
• Jammed mechanism: Inspect the rails, rollers, and linkages under the seat for any jamming. Lubricate and realign parts if required.
• Catching upholstery: Check that upholstery fabric is not caught between movable parts. Refasten the fabric if needed.
• Broken springs: Weak or broken extension springs can prevent the footrest from extending fully. Replace any damaged springs.

6. Leather Cracking and Peeling

Flexsteel uses top grain leather on the upholstery of many of its recliners. Over time, the leather can dry out and start cracking or peeling.

• Lack of conditioning: Frequently apply leather conditioner to keep the material supple and moisturized.
• Exposure to sun: Avoid placing the recliner in direct sunlight that can dry out the leather.
• Pet scratches: Pets scratching the furniture lead to cracks in the leather. Use scratch resistant covers.
• Improper cleaning: Use only recommended leather cleaners and gentle brushing action. Avoid harsh chemicals.

Troubleshooting Flexsteel Recliner Problems

When your Flexsteel recliner starts malfunctioning, follow these basic troubleshooting steps before deciding on any repairs:

• Inspect the power supply – Plug another appliance into the outlet to confirm power availability. Check all electrical connections.
• Review owner’s manual – The manual will have useful troubleshooting tips specific to your recliner model.
• Check floor clearance – Ensure no obstruction around or under the chair is hindering its movement.
• Examine for visible damage – Look for any loose fasteners, disconnected wires, broken springs or tubes.
• Test after lubrication – Lubricate joints and linkages, then test if the problematic movement has improved.
• Locate unusual sounds – Listen closely to pinpoint the location of any squeaking or grinding noises.
• Compare with other chairs – If you own two identical recliners, compare their mechanisms to isolate the problematic part.

Based on these checks, you can zero in on the likely faulty component and proceed to repair it.

DIY Fixes for Common Flexsteel Recliner Problems

Many issues with Flexsteel recliners can be fixed at home with some simple tools and replacements parts. Here are some DIY solutions:

Electrical problems

• Check all wires and connections in the control box. Refasten loose wires or replace damaged cables.
• Inspect the fuse and replace it with a new 15 amp 125V fuse if blown out.
• Test the switches, bulbs, and power cord. Replace any defective parts.

Squeaking and grinding

• Lubricate joints and pivot points with silicone spray or lithium grease.
• Tighten screws on brackets. Replace any loose fasteners.
• Check and replace any worn nylon bushings or plastic pulleys.

Uneven reclining

• Detach and realign the recline linkage. Tighten any loose pivot bolts.
• Inspect the torsion spring and replace broken coils.
• Replace any bent or broken connecting rods in the mechanism.

Not reclining fully

• Remove obstructions under the chair. Detach and lubricate the mechanism.
• Check and reinstall any loose latching cams or brackets.
• Replace the footrest extension spring if it is too weak or damaged.

When to Call a Professional

While many problems can be fixed DIY, it’s best to leave complex repairs to trained professionals. Seek professional help for:

• Total failure of power functions
• Significant dislodging or breakage of mechanical parts
• Major unevenness in reclining function
• Very frequent squeaking or grinding noises
• Any problem you are unable to diagnose yourself

Obtain assistance from authorized Flexsteel service technicians. Refrain from repairs by untrained handymen as they may worsen the problems.

Preventing Problems with Proper Maintenance

You can minimize many Flexsteel recliner problems by providing regular maintenance:

• Keep the chair clean by frequently vacuuming and spot-cleaning the upholstery.
• Apply leather conditioner regularly to nourish and hydrate leather.
• Lubricate movable joints every 4-6 months to prevent squeaking.
• Avoid exposing the recliner to moisture that can corrode mechanisms.
• Ensure kids and pets do not jump on the chair or damage the levers.
• Do not place excessively heavy items on the chair that can bend components.
• Follow the weight capacity limit and avoid sudden drops while reclining.

When to Consider Recliner Replacement

Despite your best maintenance efforts, recliners do wear out over years of use. Consider replacement if your Flexsteel product shows:

• Significant deterioration and stretching of upholstery
• Unresolvable clunking, grinding or squeaking noises
• Frequent breakdowns and very costly repairs
• Irreparable sagging or misshaping of cushions
• Mechanical problems that cause unsafe reclining motion
• Damaged or obsolete parts that cannot be replaced

If repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, it makes better sense to purchase a new Flexsteel recliner and enjoy an extended warranty.

Key Takeaways: Troubleshooting Flexsteel Recliners

• Inspect power supply, floor clearance and visible damage when problems arise.
• Lubricate joints and tighten fasteners to fix squeaking issues.
• Replace any damaged electrical components like fuses, switches and wiring.
• Align, detach and lubricate mechanism to fix uneven reclining problems.
• Look for obstructions under seat and detach parts to fix non-reclining issues.
• Tighten loose hardware and replace worn bushings and pulleys causing noises.
• Consider professional help for complex repairs. Seek reputable authorized technicians.
• Provide regular maintenance to maximize recliner life.
• Replace irreparable recliners showing extensive wear and tear.

With some inspection, lubrication and part replacements, you can troubleshoot most problems with your Flexsteel recliner. When in doubt, seek assistance from skilled experts. Follow the maintenance tips provided to get the most durability out of your high-quality Flexsteel product.