Got a cranky Knoll Life? No sweat. With a hex/Torx set and a couple of inexpensive parts, most fixes are simple DIY. Below: quick troubleshooting, realistic repair costs, where to order parts, official manuals/warranty links, and easy habits to keep your Life chair quiet, supportive, and looking sharp.
Quick Fix to Common Knoll Life Problems
Chair slowly sinks: The gas cylinder is leaking. Remove the base, twist the old cylinder free with a pipe wrench, and press-fit a new one. Match overall length and stroke. Reliable options appear if you search for gas lift cylinders that fit standard tapered mounts.
Wobbly base or loose feel: Flip the chair and snug all seat/base fasteners. Reseat the cylinder taper fully into the hub. If the five-star base shows hairline cracks, replace it with a compatible unit—see replacement chair bases that accept standard cylinders.
Creaks, squeaks, or clicks: Isolate noise at caster stems, the tilt interface, or arm pivots. Tighten hardware a quarter-turn. Add a tiny dab of dry PTFE at caster stems only (never on fabric). Upgrading to rollerblade-style casters often quiets chatter and improves glide.
Seat depth slider stuck: Lift the left-side lever, then gently rock the seat to free grit. Clean/dry the rails and tighten mounting screws evenly. If the lever doesn’t spring, inspect the linkage under the seat for pinched parts or missing washers and re-align before reassembly.
Back won’t recline or lock as expected: Make sure the upright tilt lock is fully released. Give the tension control several full turns—changes can be subtle at first. If the knob slips/binds, remove the seat to inspect the mechanism fasteners. Severely worn mechanisms should be replaced via an authorized dealer.
Arms loose or pads drifting: Life’s arms adjust in height/width, and some have “orbital” pads. Remove caps and snug pivot/height screws (don’t over-torque). If pads are split, measure hole spacing and replace with low-profile replacement arm pads that clear your desk.
Lumbar feels uneven or pops: Center the back suspension and tighten back-frame hardware to even torque. Cycle through full recline while listening for rubbing. If a bracket/flexor is cracked, order the correct back assembly through Knoll/MillerKnoll—don’t improvise with third-party hardware.
Casters jammed with hair/debris: Pull each wheel, tweeze out hair, wipe stems, and push back until each clicks seated. For hard floors, switch to soft-tread wheels—check soft casters—to protect surfaces and reduce future tangles.
How much does it cost to repair a Knoll Life?
- Gas lift (cylinder): $20–$40 DIY universal; $60–$120 with shop labor.
- Caster set (5): $20–$60 (standard vs. rollerblade-style; soft treads cost a bit more).
- Arm pads/arm hardware: $25–$70 pair for third-party pads; OEM arm assemblies vary by finish.
- Seat/base hardware refresh: $0–$20 for a hex/Torx kit and medium thread locker.
- Tilt/under-seat mechanism: $80–$180+ depending on configuration and source.
- Five-star base: $80–$160 (nylon/aluminum). Confirm cylinder taper compatibility.
- Professional tune-up: $60–$150 shop minimum; request a written estimate.
Order Parts for Your Broken Knoll Life
- Go OEM first: find an authorized partner via the Knoll Location/Dealer Locator or the MillerKnoll Find a Dealer.
- For help identifying assemblies (arms, mechanism, back), contact Knoll via the Help Center or Workplace Contact.
- Common wear items are universal: gas cylinders, casters, a solid hex/Torx bit set, and dry PTFE lube.
Before ordering, photograph underside labels, note options (arm type, upholstery), and measure bolt spacing, cylinder length, and base bore depth. Dealers can confirm exact part numbers/finishes—ask for written compatibility, especially for mechanisms and back assemblies.
Knoll Life Repair & Service Center Near You
Use the official Knoll Location/Dealer Locator to find an authorized service partner near you. You can also reach Customer Service via the Contact Us page or submit a workplace inquiry at Workplace Support for assistance and parts guidance.
Warranty Coverage for Knoll Life
Knoll states an industry-leading 12-Year Warranty (North America) that includes parts and labor to repair; specific coverage varies by product/region. Review the official terms and start a claim via the Knoll Warranty page or the shop’s Warranty & Service section.
Knoll Life Diagram & Manual
Grab the official operating instructions (adjustments, tilt lock, arms, seat slider) here: Life Chair Operating Instructions (PDF). For broader installation/care resources, see the Knoll Installation Instructions Library and Instructions & Product Care.
Tips to Make Your Knoll Life Last Longer
- Vacuum back/seat surfaces monthly; wipe with mild, non-solvent cleaner.
- Tighten all hex/Torx fasteners every 6 months—snug, not overtight.
- Use soft-tread casters on hard floors and keep hair out of wheels.
- Set seat depth/height correctly so knees clear the front edge—reduces mesh strain.
- Avoid using arms as “push-off” handles; that loosens pivots/orbital pads.
- Keep out of direct sun/heat to preserve upholstery and suspension feel.
- Follow the official manual during adjustments and any part replacements.
- Do an annual “tune-up”: tighten, clean, and inspect for wear.
Conclusion
Most Life chair fixes are easy: tighten, clean, and replace small wear items like cylinders or casters. Confirm OEM parts through an authorized dealer, lean on Knoll’s documentation, and stick to light maintenance. Your Life will stay smooth, quiet, and ready for long work sessions.
