Symptoms
- No movement or sound when pressing the button
- Remote or control panel lights don't turn on
- Motor hums but nothing moves
Likely causes
- CommonPower cord unplugged or loose at the outlet or unitCords can shift loose during cleaning or moving the furniture.
- CommonTripped outlet or breakerGFCI outlets can trip and cut power without an obvious sign.
- PossibleFaulty remote, hand control, or its connection cableThe small control unit and its cable are common failure points.
- PossibleFailed motor or actuatorIf power and controls check out, the motor itself may have failed.
What to do
- Confirm the outlet has power by plugging in another device.
- Check that the power cord is fully seated at both the wall and the recliner's power module.
- Reset a tripped GFCI outlet or breaker if applicable.
- Unplug the hand control, check the cable and connector for damage, then reconnect firmly.
- Listen for a motor hum when pressing the button; a hum with no movement suggests a jammed or failed motor, while silence points to the control or power.
- If available, try a different compatible hand control to rule out a bad remote before assuming motor failure.
Tools and parts
- None required for basic checks
Recliner hand control/remoteSearch: “power recliner hand control replacement”
Power recliner motorSearch: “power recliner replacement motor actuator”
When to call a pro
Motor and wiring replacement inside the frame is best handled by a furniture repair technician familiar with your recliner's model.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.