Treadmills have a lot of moving parts. These parts become worn, damaged or loose, which can cause the treadmill to squeak when you walk on it. Some squeaking problems are more easily fixed than others. Start by trying to identify where the squeak is coming from and what is causing it.
Loose Parts
Icon Health and Fitness, a fitness equipment manufacturer, recommends users to routinely check the exposed nuts and bolts around the treadmill. The constant pounding from you walking or running on the machine can cause bolts to become loose, which may cause the treadmill to squeak. Walk around the treadmill, check all the nuts and bolts, and tighten them if necessary. Do not adjust the rear roller bolts, which are on the back end of the machine in the end caps. These bolts change the tension of the walking belt.
Bearings
The bearings under the motor hood may cause a squeaking noise if they go bad. Run your treadmill and kneel by the motor hood. Listen if the sound comes from this area. If so, remove the hood and use a long-handled screwdriver to isolate the squeak. Touch the metal end of the screwdriver to the nonmoving parts around the motor. Place your ear next to the other end of the screwdriver. The screwdriver will amplify the squeak when you touch an area near the origin of the noise.
Belt
The walking belt can cause a squeaking noise if it becomes dry or if it rubs against the side rails. Treadmill belts can shift to the side over time. If your belt shifts too far, it may rub the plastic rails and cause a squeaking noise. Run the belt at a medium speed, stand at the end of the treadmill and observe the belt. If it shifts to one side, follow the instructions in your manual to adjust the belt. Some treadmill belts require regular lubrication. Feel the underside of the belt. If it is dry, it may need lubrication. Check your manual for specific instructions.
Precautions
Not all treadmills require the same maintenance. Some treadmill belts are maintenance-free and do not require regular lubrication. If you apply any substance to the belt or remove the motor hood cover, you may void your warranty. Contact the manufacturer of your treadmill for assistance if you are unsure of what is causing the squeak. According to Horizon Fitness, you should be able to tell customer support how long the squeak has been occurring, under what circumstances it occurs, and what area of the treadmill it comes from.
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