How To Fix a Couch That Won't Recline? What Are the Fixes?

Few things are as disappointing as settling down on your favorite couch, eagerly anticipating a moment of pure relaxation, only to find that it stubbornly refuses to recline. A non-reclining couch can quickly turn into a frustrating obstacle standing between you and your much-needed comfort.

But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, I will provide you with step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and expert advice to diagnose and resolve the most common causes of a couch that won’t recline. With a little patience and some basic tools, you’ll be well on your way to reclining bliss.

Key Takeaways

[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]

To fix a reclining sofa that isn’t reclining

Lubricate the reclining mechanism by applying oil to all the moving parts and cleaning and oiling the footrest’s handle
Inspect and replace the broken mechanism cable if it has slipped off or is damaged.
Secure the lever action by checking its tightness, locating missing nuts or bolts, and adjusting the fabric.
If necessary, you can also replace the stripped handle.[/su_note]

Types of Reclining Couch Mechanisms

When it comes to reclining couches, there are typically two types of reclining mechanisms that determine their functionality.

The First Uses Cable System for Its Operations.

The first type employs a cable system to manage the reclining mode. By manually lifting or releasing the footrest lever, the couch tilts back, allowing you to relax. However, issues arise when the cable becomes loose or breaks, hampering the reclining function.

The Second Uses Arm Positioned On the Outer Side.

The second type of reclining couch utilizes an arm positioned on the outside of the couch. This arm is responsible for turning a crank that lifts the footrest and reclines the couch.

Problems with this type of mechanism occur when the bolt holding the arm becomes loose or strips, impairing the smooth operation of the couch. Additionally, unrelated problems can arise when bolts loosen on the lift mechanism itself, affecting the couch’s ability to recline fully or at all.

[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]Note: Whether it’s a loose or broken cable, a bolt-related issue with the arm, or a problem within the lift mechanism, any of these issues can result in your couch only partially reclining or refusing to budge altogether.

Identifying the specific mechanism type and understanding these common problems will greatly assist you in troubleshooting and fixing your non-reclining couch.[/su_note]

What Causes a Couch To Not Recline? How To Troubleshoot It?

Before diving into a quick DIY fix for your couch that isn’t reclining, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes first. Well, the most frequent reasons may comprise the following.

Mechanical issues – Problems can arise with the reclining mechanism itself, such as broken cables, disconnected parts, or misalignment, which can prevent the couch from reclining properly.
Obstructions or blockages – If there are objects or debris lodged in the reclining mechanism, it can hinder the movement and prevent the couch from reclining smoothly. Checking for any foreign items or buildup is important.
Wear and tear – Over time, the moving parts of the reclining mechanism can experience wear and tear, leading to stiffness or worn-out components. This can impede the couch’s ability to recline as intended.
Loose or broken components – If there are loose bolts, screws, or other fasteners within the reclining mechanism, it can cause instability and affect the couch’s ability to recline properly. Damaged parts, such as a broken armrest or footrest, can also impact the overall functionality.
Lack of lubrication – Insufficient or dried-out lubricants can result in increased friction within the reclining mechanism, making it difficult for the couch to recline smoothly. Regular lubrication of the moving parts is necessary to maintain optimal functionality.

Now that you know the possible reasons behind a couch that is not reclining, it’s time to troubleshoot the problem more precisely. To troubleshoot a non-reclining couch, you can follow these steps:

Check the power source – Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged in and that the outlet is functioning properly. Try plugging the couch into a different outlet to see if that resolves the issue.
Clear obstructions – Examine the reclining mechanism for any debris or obstructions that may be stopping proper movement. Clear away any objects or buildup that could hinder the reclining function.
Examine the release lever – Test the release lever or handle that activates the reclining function. Ensure it is not jammed or stuck. Give it a firm pull to see if it engages the reclining mechanism.

Suppose you have followed these troubleshooting tactics but are still facing the issue, it means something serious is happening within the reclining mechanism of the couch. Now, jump to the next section of this guide to start fixing the non-reclining couch.

How To Fix a Couch That Won’t Recline?

If you have been following us on our platform, you would know that we keep you updated with the issues that people face with their recliners, reclining couches, and more.

In the previous week, we had a discussion regarding the manual recliner won’t close with the solution. Go check it out; you may find other ideas, tips, and tricks for fixing your couch.

Well, coming back to the topic, I have added a list of fixes in the following section. Start by checking and implementing from the basics (first) to the last which is the most advanced.

However, even before that, gather these tools first (you may need them in a few fixes that I will discuss below).

File
Screwdrivers
Small wrenches
Oil for lubrication
Spring attached to “L” rod (only if you need to replace it)
Mechanism cable (if you want to replace it)
Old rags
Plier

Now, let me get started with the actual solutions.

Lubricate the Reclining Mechanism Properly.

As I mentioned earlier, I’ll start introducing different fixes from the very basic to the advanced ones. Therefore, the first method on the list is simply lubricating the reclining mechanism to check whether the problem goes or not. Here are the steps to follow for this method.

Access the Underside Of the Couch – Flip the couch over to access the underside. Inspect the inner screws and ensure they are tightened securely.
Protect the Upholstery From the Lubricating Oil – Prior to lubrication, protect the couch’s upholstery by wrapping it with rags. This prevents oil or grease from staining or damaging the fabric.
Carefully Apply the Lubricating Oil – Apply lubricant to all the moving parts of the couch’s mechanism. If you don’t have sprayable oil, you can use an old rag to rub the lubricant onto the components.
Take Care of the Footrest’s Handle As Well – Pay attention to the handle that operates the footrest. Clean it thoroughly and apply oil to ensure smooth movement. This helps prevent corrosion and maintain functionality.
Wipe the oil spills with a clean rag – After lubrication, use a clean rag to wipe away any oil spills or excess lubricant, ensuring a clean finish.

Once you have properly lubricated the reclining mechanism, put the couch in the test and check whether it’s reclining or still facing the same issue. If the issue exists even if you have tried multiple times, go to the next fix on the list.

Inspect/ Replace the Broken Mechanism Cable.

Sometimes, the cable that attaches the lever to the reclining mechanism is either slipped off or broken making it unable to recline the couch upon pulling the lever. Follow this method and check whether this is the cause behind the issue or not.

Check For Cushion Removal – If possible, remove the cushion. If not, pull it aside to reach the lever or handle on the inside of the couch.
Locate the Handle or Lever – Look for the handle or lever inside the arm of the couch. It may be held in place by two screws inside a cup-shaped, recessed holder.
Remove the Screws and Cup Holder – Take out the two screws and, if needed, use a screwdriver to pry out the recessed cup holder.
Check the Cable Connection – Inspect the cable to see if it has slipped off. If so, hook it back up to the lever. Look for a small ball at one end of the cable.
Replace a Broken Cable – If the cable is broken, you should invert the couch to locate the point where the cable connects to the mechanism at the bottom. Release the cable, typically held by a small clip. Use pliers if necessary to compress the clip and remove the cable.
Measure for Replacement – Measure its length accurately to ensure you get the proper size. This type of cable is sometimes called a parachute cable. You can order a new one online or take the measurements to a furniture store and place an order based on the brand of your couch.
Install the New Cable – Hook up the new cable to the mechanism and ensure it is securely attached. Screw the recessed handle or lever back on.
Test the Couch – Once the new cable is in place and the handle is secured, test the couch to see if it reclines normally.

Suppose the cable isn’t the issue. In such a case, you should check whether the level action itself is working fine or if it has some issue underlying it. Here is how you can do that.

Secure the Lever Action Given On the Couch’s Side.

Securing the lever is a bit more advanced DIY fix than the one we have seen so far. However, with a bit of patience and guidance, you’ll get from this guide’s section, you can do it in no time. Here are the steps to inspect and secure the lever action.

Check the Lever Tightness – If the lever on the side of the couch feels loose, it is likely causing the issue. Examine the exterior side of the lever where it connects to the couch. Look for any missing nuts or fasteners.
Search For The Missing Nut – Check underneath the couch to see if the missing nut has fallen off. If you locate it, use a socket and ratchet to securely bolt the arm back onto the couch.
Look For a Plastic Cap – If you don’t find a visible bolt, there may be a small plastic cap on the arm. Pry off the cap and inspect the inside for the nut or bolt that needs to be tightened.
Inspect Under the Couch – Tip the couch over and examine the underside. Look for any visible threads or bolts that may need to be tightened.
Adjust the Fabric – If none of the previous steps works or there are no visible threads or bolts, gently push the fabric back in the place where the lever connects to the couch on the outside. This can help ensure a tighter fit.
Replace a Stripped Handle – If the shaft of the arm is square and the handle is stripped, causing the square shaft to spin inside the lever body, remove the lever by prying or pulling it off. Replace it with a new one, as the stripped handle may have already detached.

Suppose the lever is working fine. Or, there was an issue that you have cured but still facing the same issue. In such a case, only one fix is remaining in my head; it is given as the following.

Smoothen the “L” Rod and Inspect the Spring.

Smoothening the “L” rod or inspecting/ replacing the spring attached to it is the ultimate and most advanced fix on the list. Therefore, carefully follow all the steps discussed to break down the issue.

Rotate the Couch and Access the Footrest Area – Rotate the couch to the side, providing better access to the footrest area.
Use the Handle to Access the Footrest – Extend the footrest using the handle, which will expose the underlying spring mechanism.
Inspect the L-Shaped Rod – Inspect the “L” rod supported by the spring and check for the presence of a burr, or any small rough or sharp edge.
Remove the Burr And/Or Smoothen the Rough Edges – If a burr is found, carefully remove it using a file. Gently smooth out the burr until the surface is even and free from any rough edges.

[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]Note: If unevenness or roughness on the edges still exists, you can use appropriate sandpaper to sand the edges. This way, you can not only remove the remaining buff but also make the edges smooth.[/su_note]

(Optional) Replace the Spring – If necessary, consider replacing the recliner’s springs. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper installation. Once the springs are replaced, reposition the footrest back into its original position.
Lubricate the Recliner’s Mechanism – Use a cloth to absorb an appropriate lubricating oil and apply it to the moving parts of the mechanism. Ensure that the lubrication is evenly distributed for smoother operation.

Tips & Tricks For the Methods Explained So Far.

Although I have kept you informed throughout all the fixes we have looked at so far in this guide. Still, I think, it’s essential to tell you everything that you should know when fixing the recliner that isn’t reclining.

Check the Weight Limit.

Ensure that the weight and balance of your place on the couch do not exceed the stated load capacity. This helps prevent stress and damage to the couch.

Find and Tighten Loose Screws.

Inspect the couch for any loose screws or nuts and tighten them accordingly. This is especially important for office couches that may stop functioning properly due to this issue.

Examine the Latching System.

Check the latching system for any broken pieces. If the couch still retains spring tension, it indicates that the mechanism is still functional. Also, look beneath the recliner to see if a bar has been properly placed into the receiver.

Don’t Solely Blame the Cable Release.

If the footrest doesn’t extend, don’t immediately assume that the cable release is the problem. It could be a loose lock or screw causing the issue.

Watch Out for Worn-Out Rivets.

Rivets can wear out and come loose from nuts and screws, while latches may weaken. These can affect the movement of the couch, especially if it lacks a cable release.

Consider Adjusting the Spring Force.

If the couch has spring-related problems, tightening a screw or drilling anew can help adjust the spring force. Replacement springs are also available if needed.

Seek Professional Help.

If you have tried various troubleshooting methods without success, it’s advisable to contact local support or the manufacturer for further assistance.

Core Maintenance Tips for Reclining Couches

Regularly Tighten Equipment Screws.

Loose screws can compromise the stability and safety of the couch so take the time to regularly inspect your reclining couch for any loose screws or bolts. Use appropriate tools to tighten them as needed to make sure everything is correctly in place.

Lubricate joints and mechanisms every 3-4 months

The joints and mechanisms of your reclining couch require proper lubrication to maintain smooth operation.

Every 3-4 months, apply a suitable lubricant specifically designed for furniture mechanisms. This helps reduce friction, prevents wear and tear, and increases the components’ lifespan.

Check internal connections for pressure when something’s not right

If you experience any issues with your reclining couch, such as uneven reclining or difficulty in adjusting positions, check the internal connections.

Examine the joints and connections for signs of pressure or misalignment. Gently adjust or realign them as necessary to restore proper functionality.

Don’t overwork the chair. Don’t smash chair covers

Avoid putting excessive strain on your reclining couch. Do not use excessive force when operating the reclining mechanisms, as this can lead to damage or premature wear.

Additionally, be mindful of the chair covers or upholstery. Avoid sitting or stepping on them forcefully, as it can cause tearing or damage to the fabric.

Recliners shouldn’t be overloaded

Be mindful of the weight capacity recommended by the manufacturer for your reclining couch. Avoid overloading the chair with excessive weight, as it can strain the mechanisms, springs, and frame.

Distribute weight evenly and avoid placing heavy objects on the footrest or armrests to maintain the longevity of your reclining couch.

FAQs

How Do You Fix a Recliner Mechanism On a Couch?

To fix a recliner mechanism on a couch, follow these steps:

Determine the specific problem with the recliner mechanism, such as a loose cable, broken lever, or faulty motor.
Check for any loose screws or bolts and tighten them. If a screw is missing or damaged, replace it with a suitable replacement.
If the recliner mechanism uses cables, ensure they are properly connected. If a cable has come loose or broken, reattach it or replace it with a new one.
If a lever, handle, or other component is broken or malfunctioning, consider repairing or replacing it. Seek professional help or consult the manufacturer’s instructions if needed.
After making any necessary repairs, test the reclining mechanism to ensure it functions appropriately. Make any adjustments as needed for smooth operation.

Why Does My Recliner Not Recline?

There can be several reasons why a recliner does not recline:

Malfunctioning power cord or outlet, drained or dead batteries in electric or motorized recliners.
Objects lodged in the reclining mechanism, debris, or foreign materials blocking the movement of the footrest or seat.
Loose cables, levers, bolts, or other components that affect the reclining mechanism’s operation.
Internal mechanical issues, such as worn-out springs, damaged gears, or malfunctioning mechanisms, prevent the recliner from reclining properly.
Excessive wear, tears, or damage to the upholstery restricts the movement of the reclining mechanism.
Improper assembly or installation of the reclining mechanism or related components causes functional problems.

How Do You Fix a Recliner That Won’t Stay Reclined?

If your recliner won’t stay reclined, try these steps:

Adjust Recliner Tension Properly

Assess the current tension and determine if it needs tightening or loosening.
Locate the tension adjustment mechanism and use the appropriate tools to make small adjustments.
Test the recliner after each adjustment and continue fine-tuning until the desired tension is achieved.

Replace Tension Springs/ Other Damaged Parts

Gather the required tools and replacement components.
Flip the recliner over to access the frame beneath the seat.
Locate the attachment points and remove the old springs.
Stretch and install the new springs, ensuring a secure grip.
Test the tension of the newly installed springs.

How Do You Reset a Recliner Couch?

To reset a recliner couch, follow these steps:

Look for a small lever or release button on the recliner mechanism. It is typically located on the bottom of the recliner near the footrest.
Depress or engage the reset lever/button using a tool or your hand. Hold it in place while gently pushing down on the footrest to release any tension.
Slowly release the reset lever/button and allow the recliner to return to its original position.
Verify that the recliner is now functioning properly by attempting to recline it. If the issue persists, refer to the specific troubleshooting tips or contact a professional for further assistance.

How To Fix a Couch That Won’t Recline? What Are the Fixes?