How to Identify Motor or Roller Issues Early in Your Massage Chair

Introduction

A massage chair is more than just a luxury item — it’s an investment in your health and relaxation. Whether you use it to unwind after a long day or manage chronic tension, consistent performance is key. But what happens when something feels a little “off”? Is the roller not moving like it used to? Does the motor sound louder than normal?

Identifying issues with the motor or rollers early can save you money, extend the lifespan of your chair, and prevent disruptions to your daily relaxation routine. In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to recognize early warning signs, what they mean, and what steps to take before the problem escalates.

Why Early Detection Matters

Massage chairs rely on a sophisticated system of motors, rollers, and electronics to mimic the hands of a human masseuse. Over time, normal wear and tear can lead to issues — but early detection allows for:

• Preventive maintenance before breakdowns
• Reduced repair costs
• Less downtime
• Longer lifespan for your massage chair

Let’s dive into how to identify common symptoms of motor or roller issues.

Common Signs of Motor Problems

1. Unusual Noises

If your chair starts making grinding, clicking, or buzzing noises — especially from the back or seat area — it could be a motor struggling to operate.

What to listen for:

• A grinding noise when rollers begin to move
• A constant hum that wasn’t there before
• Intermittent buzzing when changing modes or intensities

Possible causes:

• Worn-out motor bearings
• Dust/debris in the motor housing
• Electrical surges causing stress on motor coils

2. Inconsistent Speed or Stalling

If the rollers or massage functions move slower than usual or stop and start during a session, it’s a likely sign the motor is under strain.

Check for:

• Jerky or slow movement during rolling
• Chair “freezing” mid-program and resuming later
• Speed variations without input

What it could mean:

• Motor overheating
• Low voltage or inconsistent power supply
• Internal resistance from aging parts

Common Signs of Roller Issues

3. Reduced Range of Motion

Massage rollers are designed to cover a specific path along your spine, shoulders, and lower back. If you notice they are not reaching certain zones like before, it may indicate roller misalignment or damage.

Symptoms:

• Rollers no longer reach the neck or lower back
• One side feels stronger than the other
• Program runs but certain areas feel “missed”

Causes:

• Dislocated or jammed roller track
• Motor failing to move rollers fully
• Internal sensor malfunction

4. Excessive Vibration or Roughness

Massage rollers should feel smooth and consistent. If they start to feel rough, bumpy, or overly forceful, it may be a problem with roller alignment or surface wear.

Look for:

• Uncomfortable pressure points
• Uneven massage compared to previous sessions
• Rollers “rattling” or bouncing

Possible issues:

• Rollers out of track
• Cushion padding degradation
• Loose internal brackets

How to Perform a Basic Self-Check

Here are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot your massage chair at home before calling a technician.

Step 1: Unplug and Inspect

• Turn off and unplug the chair.
• Visually inspect for loose wires, broken panels, or foreign objects.
• Use a flashlight to peek into the roller area if accessible.

Step 2: Run a Diagnostic Mode (if available)

• Many high-end chairs have a built-in self-diagnostic feature.
• Consult the user manual for instructions on activating this mode.

Step 3: Test with a Basic Program

• Run a short, low-intensity program and observe the motor and roller behavior.
• Make note of any abnormal sounds, irregular movement, or lagging.

Step 4: Check Power Supply

• Ensure the massage chair is plugged into a surge protector.
• Fluctuating power supply can cause intermittent motor issues.
• Try a different power outlet or circuit if problems persist.

When to Call a Professional

If you experience any of the following, stop using the chair and contact a certified technician:

• Burning smell or smoke from motor area
• Complete roller failure
• Loud grinding or knocking sounds
• Flashing error codes on the control panel

Note: Most modern massage chairs come with at least 1–3 years of manufacturer warranty. If your chair was purchased through Brendan Massage Chair, you can contact our support team for assistance and certified repair services.

Tips to Prevent Future Issues

1. Regular Cleaning and Dusting

Dust buildup can affect motor ventilation. Use a soft cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the back and underside of the chair monthly.

2. Don’t Overload the Chair

Avoid using the chair beyond its weight or usage capacity. Check your manual for specific limits.

3. Keep It Cool

High temperatures or direct sunlight can cause materials to degrade and motors to overheat. Place your massage chair in a shaded, cool area.

4. Use Surge Protection

Protect the electronics and motors from voltage spikes using a high-quality surge protector.

5. Schedule Yearly Maintenance

Even if your chair is running fine, a technician can detect early wear and tear that may not be visible to users.

Conclusion

Early detection of motor or roller issues in your massage chair can make the difference between a quick fix and an expensive repair. Listen to your chair — literally and figuratively. Any unusual sounds, movements, or sensations should prompt a closer look.

At Brendan Massage Chair, we understand the importance of uninterrupted comfort. That’s why we offer premium support, warranty protection, and professional guidance to keep your chair in top shape.

Don’t ignore the signs — your comfort depends on it.