Lubrication

Proper lubrication of moving parts reduces wear, lowers noise levels, and ensures precise movement. Bambu Lab printers use linear motion systems that require periodic lubrication.

Lubrication types

Component	Lubrication type	Product
Linear rods (XY)	Light machine oil or PTFE spray	3-in-1, Super Lube
Z-axis lead screw	Thick grease	Super Lube grease
Linear rails	Light lithium grease	Bambu Lab grease
Cable chain links	None (dry)	—

Linear rods

X and Y axes

The rods are hardened steel rods that slide through linear bearings:

Interval: Every 200–300 hours, or when squeaking sounds occur
Amount: Very little — one drop per rod point is enough
Method:
1. Turn off the printer
2. Move the carriage manually to the end
3. Apply 1 drop of light oil at the midpoint of the rod
4. Move the carriage slowly back and forth 10 times
5. Wipe off excess oil with lint-free paper

Do not over-lubricate

Too much oil attracts dust and creates an abrasive paste. Use minimal amounts and always wipe off excess.

Z-axis (vertical)

The Z-axis uses a lead screw that requires grease (not oil):

Interval: Every 200 hours
Method:
1. Turn off the printer
2. Apply a thin layer of grease along the lead screw
3. Run the Z-axis up and down manually (or via maintenance menu)
4. Grease distributes automatically

Linear rails

Bambu Lab P1S and X1C use linear rails (MGN12) on the Y-axis:

Interval: Every 300–500 hours
Method:
1. Remove some old grease with a needle or toothpick from the injection opening
2. Inject new grease with a syringe and thin cannula
3. Run the axis back and forth to distribute the grease

Bambu Lab sells official lubricant (Bambu Lubricant) that is calibrated for the system.

Lubrication maintenance for different models

X1C / P1S

• Y-axis: Linear rails — Bambu grease
• X-axis: Carbon rods — light oil
• Z-axis: Dual lead screw — Bambu grease

A1 / A1 Mini

• All axes: Steel rods — light oil
• Z-axis: Single lead screw — Bambu grease

Signs that lubrication is needed

• Squeaking or scraping sounds during movement
• Vibration patterns visible on vertical walls (VFA)
• Inaccurate dimensions without other causes
• Increased pitch from the motion system

Lubrication intervals

Activity	Interval
Oil XY rods	Every 200–300 hours
Grease Z lead screw	Every 200 hours
Grease linear rails (X1C/P1S)	Every 300–500 hours
Full maintenance cycle	Semi-annually (or 500 hours)

Use the maintenance module in the dashboard to track intervals automatically.