The springs determine the resistance of your reformer – and they are safety-relevant wearing parts. Regularly inspecting and replacing them on time keeps the equipment safe and ready for use. This guide shows how to recognize when a spring is due for replacement, how to exchange it correctly, which other components are considered wearing parts – and what you are permitted to do yourself without compromising your warranty protection.
Why springs are wearing parts
Springs lose tension and material properties over time – this is normal operational wear and not a defect. To ensure resistance, tension, and safety remain constant, clear replacement intervals apply:
- Replace springs after 2 years or 3,000 operating hours at the latest – whichever comes first.
- A decrease in spring tension of up to approx. 5% per 1,500 operating hours is considered normal operational wear.
- In cases of intensive use, studio operation, or high humidity, earlier replacement may be necessary.
- Damaged or suspicious-looking springs must be replaced immediately, regardless of the interval.
Learn how to select the right resistance for your workout in our guide Reformer Springs & Resistance.
Checking the spring – in an uncompressed state
Inspect the springs regularly in their uncompressed, resting state, i.e., not under load. Look for:
- Gaps between the coils
- Kinks or deformations
- Corrosion or material fatigue
If damage is detected, discontinue use immediately and replace the affected spring. A spring breaking during use can lead to property damage and serious personal injury. During training, also ensure that springs do not snap back uncontrollably or strike against stops – this accelerates wear.
Exchanging a spring – step by step
Replacement is a reasonable DIY task that can be completed in a few minutes. Perform it only on an unloaded, unused device:
- Completely detach the old spring from the spring bar at both ends.
- Attach the new spring exclusively to the designated hooks on the spring bar.
- Verify that the spring is correctly attached, fully closed, and securely tensioned.
- Only then should you use the equipment again.
Use only original springs or replacement springs approved by The Virtù Line. Before every use, ensure that all springs are fully and correctly attached at both ends – a spring that is not fully closed can detach with great force.
Which parts are wearing parts?
In addition to the springs, other components wear out due to normal operation. These components are considered wearing parts and are to be replaced by the user independently as needed:
- Ropes, straps, and foot loops
- Handles (including seams) and grip surfaces
- Rollers, pulleys, and rotation discs
- Spring clips and hooks
- Upholstery and covers
Inspect these parts regularly: check ropes and handles for fraying, cuts, and loose seams; check rollers for smooth, quiet operation; check spring hooks for secure fit. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. You can find the general care and maintenance procedure in the guide Caring for & Maintaining your Reformer.
Warranty & replacement intervals for components
The warranty periods provided by The Virtù Line apply from the date of purchase, provided the equipment is used, cared for, and maintained properly. For orientation:
- Metal/aluminum frames & welded components: 3 years for material and manufacturing defects.
- Wooden frames, gear, and footbar mechanisms: 3 years for material and manufacturing defects.
- Springs: 2 years or max. 3,000 operating hours – decreasing tension within the specified range is normal wear.
- Components subject to wear (ropes, straps, spring clips, handles, wheels, foot loops, rotation discs): 1 year, exclusively for proven quality or manufacturing defects.
- Upholstery: 6 months under normal, intended use.
Normal wear and tear, use-related degradation, and aesthetic changes are not covered by the warranty. Additionally, do not place wooden frames directly next to radiators, air conditioning units, or other heat/cold sources. The decisive factor is always the verified date of purchase according to the original invoice; you can obtain the currently applicable terms via The Virtù Line or your authorized dealer.
What you may do yourself – and what the warranty protects
The proper replacement of wearing parts in accordance with the user manual is considered a reasonable DIY task and does not void the warranty – provided that original parts or approved replacement parts are used. Importantly, in the other direction: if safety-relevant wearing parts (especially springs) are not inspected and replaced on time, warranty protection may be voided.
Unsure about a step? The Virtù Line can provide support via team or video call upon request to guide you through permitted measures. Unauthorized repairs or modifications beyond simple parts replacement are not permitted.
In summary
- Check springs regularly in an uncompressed state; replace after 2 years/3,000 hrs at the latest, or immediately if damaged.
- Replace only on unloaded equipment: detach old spring at both ends, attach new one correctly, verify secure fit.
- Ropes, handles, rollers, clips, and upholstery are also wearing parts – use only original parts.
- Proper DIY replacement does not void the warranty; however, failing to replace springs may cost you your warranty coverage.
For further questions regarding operation, delivery, or warranty, please consult our Help Center. The correct assembly is shown in the guide Assembling your Reformer; all models can be found in the Reformer Overview.
