June 01, 2015

How to replace a treadmill motor controller

How to replace a treadmill motor controller

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the motor controller on a treadmill. The motor controller runs the motor at the speed you select at the console. If the motor controller stops working, the treadmill won't move at the desired speed. Replace the motor controller with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

This procedure works for common ProForm, Weslo, Weider, Lifestyler, NordicTrack, Sole and Horizon treadmills.

Quick links
Tools required
Work gloves
Phillips screwdriver
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Replacing a motor controller on a treadmill

This video explains how to replace the motor controller on a treadmill.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Remove the key and unplug the treadmill’s power cord from the wall outlet.

    PHOTO: Remove the key.

    PHOTO: Remove the key.

  2. 02.

    Remove the motor hood

    Remove the screws securing the motor hood to the belly pan.

    Pull the motor hood forward and remove it from the treadmill frame.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor hood screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor hood screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the hood.

    PHOTO: Remove the hood.

  3. 03.

    Remove the motor controller

    Disconnect the wires.

    Remove the mounting screws.

    Remove the motor controller.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the motor controller wires.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the motor controller wires.

    PHOTO: Remove the controller mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the controller mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor controller.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor controller.

  4. 04.

    Install the new motor controller

    Position the new motor controller on the frame.

    Reinstall the motor controller mounting screws.

    Reconnect the wires to the new motor controller.

    PHOTO: Install the new motor controller.

    PHOTO: Install the new motor controller.

    PHOTO: Reconnect the motor controller wires.

    PHOTO: Reconnect the motor controller wires.

  5. 05.

    Reinstall the motor hood

    Slide the motor hood onto the frame.

    Reinstall the motor hood mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the motor hood.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the motor hood.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the hood mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the hood mounting screws.

  6. 06.

    Restore power

    Plug the treadmill into the electrical outlet.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Symptoms for treadmills

Choose a symptom to see related treadmill repairs.

Main causes: damaged walking belt, improper belt tension, lack of belt lubricant, bad drive motor…

Main causes: damaged walking belt, improper belt tension, bad roller bearing…

Main causes: rear roller out of alignment, damaged walking belt, bad roller…

Main causes: missing safety key, bad control console, wiring failure, faulty motor control board, bad drive motor…

Main causes: faulty sensors, wiring failure, bad control console…

Main causes: bad control console, wiring failure, bad motor control board…

Main causes: no power, bad power cord, tripped or faulty overload switch, bad power switch, wiring failure, bad motor co…

Repair guides for treadmills

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

How to replace a treadmill motor controller

How to replace a treadmill motor controller

Your treadmill motor won't run with a defective motor controller. Replace the motor controller if it doesn't operate the…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a treadmill drive motor

How to replace a treadmill drive motor

A defective drive motor won't run when activated by the motor controller. Replace the treadmill drive motor if it doesn'…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a treadmill walking board

How to replace a treadmill walking board

A worn-out walking board creates friction with the walking belt and causes the belt to slow down during use. Replace the…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 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 treadmill.

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.…