IKEA kitchen hardware: the guide to repairing and adjusting your furniture

A sagging cupboard door or a sticking drawer is rarely caused by a warped piece of furniture. The problem is almost always related to the hardware: a loose screw, a worn-out spring, or a dirty rail.

METOD or FAKTUM: which system do you have?

IKEA changed its drilling standards around 2014. The METOD system replaced the FAKTUM range.

These two systems are not compatible. The center-to-center distances and fasteners differ. If you have an older kitchen, do not order METOD parts: they will not fit.

Characteristic	FAKTUM System (Old)	METOD System (Current)
Warranty	Limited	25 years
Dampers	Often optional	Integrated
Assembly	Standard screwing	Suspension rail

Why is my IKEA kitchen door sagging?

This is the most common failure. The door rubs against the cabinet or is no longer aligned.

Daily vibrations loosen the adjustment screws. Use a screwdriver to adjust the front screw and correct the lateral movement.

If the door slams despite the "soft-close" system, the internal spring is broken. Replace the UTRUSTA hinge. It clips in without tools in a few seconds.

My IKEA drawer is jerky, what should I do?

A drawer that "jumps" or slides poorly often indicates a problem with the MAXIMERA runners.

Factory grease attracts dust and crumbs. This blocks the ball bearings. Carefully vacuum the rail before taking any other action.

If the blockage persists, a ball bearing is worn. Replace the entire runner. Never use household oil: it worsens clogging in the long term.

Why is my IKEA cabinet moving?

A visible gap between two panels weakens the entire kitchen structure.

The culprit is often the cam lock. If it was poorly tightened or forced during assembly, it no longer locks the dowel.

Replace the damaged cam lock. Tighten it by exactly a half-turn. Do not force it, otherwise you risk splitting the chipboard of the panel.

My tips for a lasting adjustment

IKEA assembly requires specific tools to avoid damaging the hardware.

The PZ2 bit is essential

A standard Phillips screwdriver (PH2) is not suitable. IKEA hardware uses Pozidriv (PZ2) heads. The wrong bit will strip the screw head, making disassembly impossible.

Choosing the right wall plugs

IKEA provides the suspension rail, but not the wall fasteners. For plasterboard, use metal expansion plugs (Molly). For concrete, opt for UX plugs. A poorly fixed rail makes door alignment impossible.

The spacer tip

To position your drawer runners, do not work by eye. Use a small wooden spacer the exact width of the cabinet as a guide. Your drawers will slide perfectly.

How to handle missing or broken parts?

For small screws and shelf supports, the in-store after-sales service often provides free self-service bins.

Mechanical parts (runners, hinges) are sold as standard products. For FAKTUM kitchens, IKEA no longer sells original parts. You must then turn to the second-hand market or specialized adapters.

You will find the precise references and PDF manuals for your repairs below.