Why Do Elevators Make Noise? 5 Common Causes and Effective Solutions

Publication Date 29-01-2026

Elevator noise is an abnormal sign that many families and buildings encounter in during operation. Sounds such as squealing, rattling, or strong vibrations are not only annoying but may also indicate potential underlying faults. So why do elevators make noise, and what are the five most common causes? Below, Xiolift Vietnam will helps you identify the causes and provides effective solutions to handle noisy elevators safely.

1. Causes of Elevator Noises

Noise in elevators is a warning sign that certain components are experiencing technical issues or require maintenance. Below are the most common causes.

1.1 Elevator noise due to brake malfunctions

Symptom: You may hear an elevator making loud scraping noise or metallic clashing when starting or stopping.

Causes:

Worn brake pads: Brake pads are excessively worn or dirty. This reduces braking efficiency and causes a high-pitched screech.
Brake not releasing fully: The brake piston does not open completely while the elevator is running. This causes the brake pads to rub against the brake disc.
Incorrect installation: The distance between the brake pads and the drum deviates from technical standards.

Elevator noise due to brake malfunctions

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1.2 Elevator noise due to compensation chain faults

Symptom: Clicking or clashing sounds occur while the elevator moves especially at high speeds or when the cabin is in the middle of the shaft.

Causes:

Loose compensation chain: The chain balances the weight of the hoist cables. If it is loose or improperly installed, it may hit the hoistway walls or the pit floor.
Lack of guidance: The compensation chain guide shoes are damaged or worn. This causes the chain to sway and create noise.

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1.3 Elevator noise due to unlubricated screw shafts

Symptom: High-pitched screeching, heavy friction, or labored working sounds come from the screw column. This happens when the elevator moves up or down.

Causes:

Lack of grease: The screw shaft and main nut are the drive components, requiring periodic lubrication. Lack of oil increases friction and causes an elevator making loud scraping noise.
Dirty or dry grease: Old grease becomes clogged or hardened, reducing lubrication efficiency.

Elevator noise due to unlubricated screw shafts

1.4 Elevator noise due to relays and contactors

Symptom: Clicking or loud noises from the control panel whenever the elevator starts or stops.

Causes:

Mechanical Failure: Contacts of contactors or relays are worn, loose, or pitted. This causes indecisive operation and noise.
Old relays/contactors: The devices have operated for too long, resulting in no longer flexible internal mechanical parts. They create louder noises than normal when switching.

1.5 Elevator noise due to hydraulic pump failure

Symptom: A loud humming or unusually strong vibration comes from the machine room (where the pump is placed). This occurs when the elevator begins to move.

Causes:

Incorrect hydraulic oil amount: Insufficient or excessive oil can make the pump unstable.
Worn pump bearings: Bearings inside the pump motor are worn out.
Air in the pump: The oil suction system leaks and sucks in air. This causes loud noise and intense shaking.

Elevator noise due to hydraulic pump failure

2. Guide to handling elevator noise issues

Cause of noise	Solution	Important notes
Brake malfunctions	Adjust or replace brake pads: Technicians will inspect brake clearance, clean accumulated dust, or replace worn brake pads and springs.	Must adjust according to the manufacturer’s exact specifications to ensure safety.
Compensation chain faults	Adjust tension or guidance: Technicians tension the chain to standards or replace damaged guide shoes.	Do not overtighten, as it may affect the hoist cable length.
Unlubricated Screw Shafts	Re-lubricate: Clean the screw shaft and apply specialized grease recommended by the manufacturer.	Lubrication must be performed periodically during routine maintenance.
Noisy relays/contactors	Replace devices: Loud clicking is a sign to replace components with new, identical ones.	Ensure the replacement has equivalent or better technical specifications.
Hydraulic pump Failure	Check oil or repair pump: Technicians check oil levels, fix air leaks, or replace internal mechanical parts.	Carefully check the hydraulic system’s pressure and safety valves.
General advice	Periodic Maintenance: Inspect all mechanical systems (rails, guide shoes, and cables) and tighten loose bolts.	Ensure all connecting bolts and mechanical parts are securely tightened.

When you hear an elevator making loud scraping noises or any strange sounds, contact a reputable maintenance unit immediately. Do not interfere with electrical or mechanical parts yourself. This may pose serious safety risks and void your warranty.

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Conclusion

Here is a detailed explanation of why an elevator makes noise. We covered 5 common reasons and solutions for timely detection and repair. Monitoring abnormal sounds and maintaining schedules ensures smooth operation and also extends the equipment’s lifespan.

If noises persist or more serious signs appear, contact a reputable technical unit immediately to ensure professional inspection and handling. For any questions or service requests, customers and partners are kindly invited to contact XIOLIFT Vietnam via Hotline 0789 35 3838. We commit to providing detailed product information and the best consultation on genuine installation and maintenance.

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