NordicTrack rowing machines are one of the top choices when it comes to at home cardio machines.
They offer a great value for money and have a fantastic range of models to provide something to suit every individual.
If your NordicTrack rower console not working or the display readout is growing dim, then let’s review the most proven troubleshooting steps you should follow to safely and successfully fix this issue.
Without further ado, let’s get right into it!
Why Is a NordicTrack Rower Display Not Working?
The digital console is an important part of exercising on your machine.
While a NordicTrack unit still works even when its screen doesn’t, an automated unit needs a workable console so users can select their workout programs or see time, distance or estimated calories burned.
Most NordicTrack console problems are the result of low batteries.
NordicTrack Rower Console Not Working – Troubleshooting Guides
The first to troubleshoot a NordicTrack rowing machine is to replace the display monitor batteries to see if it fixes the issue
1. Replace the console batteries
The NordicTrack rowing machine console requires four D batteries. Alkaline batteries are also recommended to use.
Try not to use old and new batteries together or alkaline, standard, and rechargeable batteries together.
If the Console has been exposed to cold temperatures, allow it to warm to room temperature before you insert batteries. Otherwise, you may damage the console displays or other electronic components.
Start off the NordicTrack rowing machine battery replacement process by removing the screws and the battery covers, then remove and discard the old batteries.
Replace all of the batteries, and make sure they are facing the right direction and that the connections are clean, free of damage.
Reattach the battery covers and turn on the NordicTrack rowing machine console.
2. Check The NordicTrack Power Supply
If the console doesn’t work after replacing the batteries and the screen doesn’t receive any power, you need to make sure you’ve already plugged your machine into a power outlet first.
Check your outlet first, ensure the power cord is connected securely, and that the cord and plug are free of damage.
If the power doesn’t come to the console, check if your outlet is workable by plugging an appliance into it.
If the appliance doesn’t power, you may need to check your Circuit Breaker or move the machine to another outlet.
However, if it’s still working correctly, then you need to check the connection at the front of the unit to make sure the connection is secure and undamaged.
If your machine has a loose connection, then you need to replace the power adapter of your equipment.
3. Reset the monitor
If your NordicTrack console does not boot up properly, or if the console freezes and is stuck in a blue screen without any indicators such as effort, distance etc. A factory reset to the factory default settings might be your solution.
Doing this will erase all custom settings you have made to the console.
Resetting the console requires two people. First, turn off NordicTrack rower and unplug the power adapter.
Next, locate the small reset opening near the USB port on the console. Using a bent paper clip, press and hold the reset button inside the opening, and have a second person plug in the power adapter.
Continue holding the reset button until the console turns on. When the reset operation is complete, the console will turn off and then turn back on.
If it does not, unplug and then plug in the power adapter.
Once the console turns on, check for firmware updates. If there is any, make sure to download and install all of them.
4. Adjust The Reed Switch
In case your screen only reads zeros for your RPM’s, or displays inaccurate workout data, it may just be a Reed Switch alignment problem.
The information on the display will not be right if the reed switch is too far from the large pulley magnet. Which means your NordicTrack reed switch should be adjusted.
First, unplug the machine if it is plugged into the wall.
What you are going to do is to remove your NordicTrack rower resistance handle and side shields, then regulate the reed switch using a robust Phillips screwdriver.
Here is how to adjust the NordicTrack rowing machine reed switch:
Start by removing the six M4 x 10mm screws and then gently remove the Resistance Handle.
Next, remove the four M4 x 19mm screws and the ten M4 x 16mm screws from the right and left shields. Then, gently slide both shields off to expose the flywheel magnet.
The next step is to locate your Reed Switch.
Now that you have found your Reed Switch we need to align that with your pulley magnet. You need to turn the Left Fan until the magnet is aligned with the Reed Switch.
Once you see that the magnet and the Reed Switch are in line, you will need to loosen the two indicated M4 x 19mm screws. Do not remove this screw completely.
With the screw loose, slide the Reed Switch so that it is about 1/8th of an inch away from the magnet, and then tighten up the adjustment screw that you loosened earlier.
Plug in the power cord , press the power switch to the reset position to turn on NordicTrack rower, and turn the left fan so that the Magnet passes the Reed Switch repeatedly.
This time keep an eye on your console and see if your console is counting appropriately. You may need to repeat this process a couple of times in order to get the proper alignment and distance between the magnet and Reed Switch.
Repeat these actions until the console displays correct feedback.
When the reed switch is correctly adjusted, press the power switch to the off position, unplug the power cord and reattach the parts that you removed.
5. Check Connections
The exact steps for this portion will vary based on your NordicTrack machine and model number.
This will be a general guide to take you through the necessary steps, but use your manual to identify how to access the parts indicated.
Start by powering off your machine.
Next, use your rowing machine manual to identify how to access the main wire. It typically goes through the upright and connects to the console.
With the main wire now accessible, check this wires connections and pins.
These pins sit inside the plastic casing that connects the wire to the controller or console. You need to make sure none of the pins have been broken or bent.
If a bent pin is found, carefully bend it back into place.
Identify and check any pinch points the wire may have. Pinch points are any place the wire moves between two parts.
If this wire is damaged anywhere, you may want to replace it.
If no damage was found, reconnect the main wire and plug your machine back in.
Check if the console works now.
Final Tip
If none of the above fixes work, then your console is probably damaged and needs to be replaced.
Call NordicTrack customer service for a new part or service.
Conclusion
It can be quite frustrating when your rowing machine console stops operating properly as it should be.
After this article you will be willing to know the reason why your NordicTrack rower display console is not working and the necessary steps to take in order to safely and successfully resolve the issue.
