Proform Rower Console Not Working

Proform 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 Proform 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 Proform Rower Display Not Working?

a picture of proform rowing machine from my garage gym

The digital console is an important part of exercising on your machine.

While a Proform 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 Proform console problems are the result of low batteries.

Proform Rower Console Not Working – Troubleshooting Guides

The first to troubleshoot a Proform rowing machine is to replace the display monitor batteries to see if it fixes the issue

1. Replace the console batteries  

four batteries in a grey background

The Proform rowing machine console requires four AA 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 Proform rowing machine battery replacement process by removing the screw and the battery cover from the top of the Console, then pull out the old batteries holder.

Replace all of the batteries, and make sure they are facing the right direction and that the connections are clean, free of damage.

Reinsert the battery holder and reattach the battery cover. 

2. Check The 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. Adjust The Reed Switch

a picture of proform rowing machine from my garage gym

If your rower 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 Proform reed switch should be adjusted.

First, unplug the machine if it is plugged into the wall to turn off Proform rower

What you are going to do is to remove your Proform rower resistance handle and side shields, then regulate the reed switch using a robust Phillips screwdriver.

Here is how to adjust the Proform 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.

technogym rowing machine picture from my home gym

Plug in the power cord , press the power switch to the reset position to turn on the Proform 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.

4. Check Connections

The exact steps for this portion will vary based on your Proform 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.

a female trainer exercising on a rowing machine

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 Proform customer care at 1-888-533-1333 for a new part or service.

Final Thoughts

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 Proform rower display console is not working and the necessary steps to take in order to safely and successfully resolve the issue.

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