How do you repair ergonomic office chairs?

One of the most important pieces of furniture for any office or home office is an ergonomic office chair. These chairs are made to be comfortable, supportive, and good for extended hours of work. Like all things that are used a lot, even the nicest office chairs can get worn out over time. Problems are prevalent, such as armrests that are too loose, wheels that squeak, or tilt mechanisms that stop working. But they don't always mean you need to buy a new one.

Beyond Space has a wide choice of high-quality office chairs that businesses in Dubai trust. We also know how important it is to take care of what you already have. We'll show you how to fix common problems with your desk chair and restore it back to great shape in this article.

Also Read: Best Ergonomic Office Chair for Long Hours of Sitting

 Common Problems with Ergonomic Chairs

• The base of the chair is wobbly
• Wheels or casters that are broken
• Armrests that aren't tight
• Tilt or recline mechanism that doesn't work
• The height of the seat isn't changing right
• Sounds that squeak or movements that are stiff

Let's talk about how to fix all of these problems.

1. Fixing a Base That Wobbles

Problem: Chair feels unstable or leans to one side
 Solution:

• Turn the chair upside down and look for any screws or bolts that are loose.
• Use a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to tighten them.
• If the base is broken, you might want to get a new one that works with your chair model.

Tip: Most high-end office chairs feature a five-star base to keep them stable. Make sure the load is spread out equally.

2. Fixing or Replacing Broken Wheels

Problem: Wheels that don't roll smoothly or have come off completely
 Solution:

• You can pull out the caster wheels by hand or with pliers.
• Put in new casters that meet the size of your chair base (typically 11mm stems).
• Use silicone spray to keep wheels from being rigid by lubricating them often.

 Source: You can find it at hardware stores or from the company that made your office chairs.

3. Tightening Loose Armrests

Problem: Armrests seem loose or shift around
 Solution:

• Take off the armrest coverings (if there are any) to see the screws.
• Use a screwdriver to tighten screws tightly.
• If the screw holes are stripped, use longer screws or fill holes with a wooden dowel for better grip.

 Note: Regular tightening will stop this problem from recurring.

4. Fixing a Tilt or Recline Mechanism

Problem: Chair won't recline or lock the right way
 Solution:

• Check the tilt tension knob under the seat — it may be too tight.
• Adjust it based on how much resistance you require.
• If it still doesn't function, the tilt mechanism may be broken and should be replaced.

 Tip: Oil the reclining parts every few months to keep them functional.

5. Height Adjustment Issues

Problem: Chair won't go up or down
 Solution:

• Likely a broken gas lift cylinder.
• Remove the chair base and cylinder.
• Replace with a compatible gas lift.

Replacement cylinders are affordable and can extend your chair’s life significantly.

6. Eliminating Squeaks and Stiffness

Problem: Squeaky noises or stiff movements
 Solution:

• Use silicone lubricant at pivot points, casters, and tilt mechanisms.
• Avoid oil-based sprays—they attract dirt.
• Ensure all parts are tightly fastened.

When to Repair vs. Replace

You should consider replacing your chair if:

• The frame or armrests are broken
• Cushions are worn and uncomfortable
• The tilt mechanism can’t be fixed
• The chair no longer supports your back properly

 If that’s the case, browse our collection of ergonomic office chairs at Beyond Space.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

• Clean your desk chair weekly to avoid dust buildup
• Tighten nuts and bolts once a month
• Lubricate moving parts every 2–3 months
• Avoid excessive leaning or putting weight on the chair

These small steps go a long way in keeping your office chairs like new.

Also Read: 7 Best Ergonomic Chairs to Help with Neck Pain (2025)

Final Thoughts

When your chair starts to show symptoms of wear, you don’t always need to replace it. With just a few basic tools and this guide, you can fix most problems and restore comfort and functionality.

But when it’s finally time to upgrade, trust Beyond Space for the best ergonomic, stylish, and long-lasting office chairs for any Dubai workspace.

Visit Beyond Space today to explore premium ergonomic seating options made for performance and comfort in Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q 1: Is it possible to fix a hydraulic gas lift at home?
 A: It's usually easier to replace than to fix. Gas lift cylinders are affordable and come with instructions.

Q:2 How long should a good office chair with good ergonomics last?
 A: A quality chair can last 5 to 8 years or more with regular care.

Q 3: What tools do I need to fix a chair?
 A: A basic toolbox with screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, pliers, and silicone spray.

Q 4: Is it easy to find spare parts in Dubai?
 A: Yes! Beyond Space sells parts for its products and recommends local hardware stores.