Lazyboy Recliner 3-Position Locks (Parts & Repair, How it Works)
If you own a Lazyboy recliner, there’s a high chance it comes with 3-positional locks. Each locking position allows you to maximize resting comfort in any of your best position. And I am going to show you how it works and the best way to maximize it. Let’s dive in.
How Lazyboy Recliner 3-Position Lock Works
The recliner chair comes with a lever by the side. You can adjust the footrest for each locking position when you push this lever. The first locking position opens by 1/3, then the second lock position opens by ½, and for the last part, the lazy boy recliner opens by 2/3.
The first locking position gives you the best television view. The second locking position allows for comfortable relaxation. Inclining the footrest to the third footrest position provides the utmost resting position and is a good relief for back pain.
However, once you open up the footrest at the first locking position, you can’t close immediately by default. You have to move the lever to the last locking position and switch the back clockwise to lock up the footrest.
How to Tell If Your Chair Has a 3-Position Lock
- Look under the recliner while adjusting the position — you’ll see a notched locking bar.
- Check your owner’s manual or model number on the label underneath the chair.
- If you hear a “click” when reclining, that’s a good sign it’s a 3-position system.
Signs Your 3-Position Lock May Be Failing
- Chair doesn’t stay in a reclined position
- You hear popping or clicking noises when leaning back
- The recliner “slips” back into an upright position unexpectedly
Can You Replace the 3-Position Lock Mechanism?
Yes! If your lock is worn out or damaged, you can buy replacement parts. These typically come as part of the reclining mechanism or as a standalone locking bar depending on your model.
Check this search on Amazon for options:
Lazyboy Recliner Mechanism Replacements
3-Position Lock Replacement & Repairs
Usually, moving the lever to achieve the best resting position on the recliner should come effortlessly. However, if it becomes difficult to close and gets stuck, there’s a need to check the underside for suitable footrest repairs.
The component responsible for locking the footrest is known as the 3-position lock. Whenever this 3-position lock has a scrape or cuts, it almost becomes difficult to adjust or return to normal position. Hence, there’s a need for change.
To make proper repairs, follow these steps:
• Turnover the recliner and expose the underside. Check whether the components are well-aligned and ensure there’s no displacement.
• With the aid of the recliner’s lever, open the footrest to maximum height.
• Look at both sides of the recliner to take out the 3-position lock. Here you locate clips and remove them on either side. Remember, one clip at a time.
• How you remove the 3-lock position component is different for each side. For one part, you only need to tag out the 3-position lock, which doesn’t have an attaching element.
• Then look at it to check for any deformations or wears and try to file it away.
• For the other side, there’s a spring held on a rotating square bar (attached to the lever or handle by the chair side). It is this spring that aids the movement of the lever for locking. Here, you remove spring from the square bar and a tad off the 3-position lock.
• Look for the correct 3-position clip and push the center clip in a square hole until you hear a click sound.
• Place the 3-position lock along with the click back to each side. Ensure you place the spring on the square tab.
• Carefully close the footrest with the lever and turn furniture to a normal position.
• Once you are done with repairs, test the footrest to ensure all 3-positions are placed securely.
Where to Buy Parts
Getting parts of a Lazyboy (especially the 3-position lock) is relatively easy. All you need is a quick search for the nearest furniture stores near you. You can also look out for parts on official Lazyboy websites. On the good side, you can buy some parts on big e-commerce stores like Amazon, BestBuy, and numerous companies.
Installation Tips for a New 3-Position Lock
- Unplug your recliner (if electric) and flip it upside down on a soft surface.
- Use the model number to order the exact replacement part.
- Take photos before removing any screws or bars — trust us, it helps.
- Check YouTube or La-Z-Boy’s site for repair videos for your model.
FAQs About Lazyboy Recliner 3-Position Locks
Is the 3-position lock standard on all Lazyboy recliners?
Most manual Lazyboy recliners come with it, but some power models use a motorized positioning system instead.
Can I add a 3-position lock to a chair that doesn’t have one?
Not usually. The mechanism must be designed to support that feature.
How long do these locks last?
They can last 5–10 years or more with regular use, depending on care and weight stress.
Conclusion
The 3-position locking system is a small but mighty part of what makes Lazyboy recliners so comfy. If yours isn’t holding steady anymore, grab a replacement part and bring back that smooth, secure recline.
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$13.99 (as of August 18, 2025 02:29 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
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My La-Z-Boy chair does not lock in the closed position please let me know possible fixes