A garage door that won’t budge, makes a screeching noise, or randomly reverses isn’t just annoying—it’s a problem you can’t ignore.
The good news? Most issues have straightforward fixes.
Whether it’s a dead remote, misaligned sensors, or something more serious like broken springs, knowing what to check can save you time and money.
Here are seven common garage door problems and how to fix them.
Key Notes
- Power issues and remote control problems are the most common causes of non-responsive doors.
- Regular lubrication prevents excessive noise and extends the life of moving parts.
- Safety sensors that reverse the door can be fixed with proper cleaning and alignment.
- DIY simple fixes like hardware tightening, but leave spring repairs to professionals.
1. Garage Door Won’t Open or Close
A garage door that refuses to move is one of the most frustrating issues homeowners face. Before assuming the worst, check for these common causes:
Power Source Issues
A simple power problem is often the culprit.
- Make sure the garage door opener is plugged in. A loose or disconnected cord can stop it from working.
- Check the circuit breaker. If it has tripped, reset it and test the door again.
- If you recently had a power outage, your opener might have switched to manual mode. Re-engage the motor by pulling the emergency release cord.
Remote Control Problems
If the door won’t respond to the remote, try these fixes:
- Replace the batteries. Weak batteries are a common cause of remote failures.
- Reprogram the remote if it has lost its connection to the opener. Instructions for this can be found in the manufacturer’s manual.
- Check for signal interference. Wi-Fi routers or other devices operating on the same frequency may disrupt the remote’s function.
2. Noisy Garage Door Operation
Garage doors make some noise when operating, but excessive grinding, squeaking, or rattling can be a sign of trouble.
Grinding or Squeaking Sounds
These noises often point to a lubrication issue or worn-out parts.
- Apply a high-quality silicone-based lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and tracks.
- If the noise persists, inspect the rollers. Metal rollers can wear out over time, causing extra friction. Swapping them for nylon rollers can quiet things down.
Rattling Noises
Loose hardware is another common source of noise.
- Check for loose nuts and bolts along the door and track system. Tighten them with a wrench.
- If the garage door opener chain is rattling, adjust the tension according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
ℹ️ Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the line. A quick inspection now can save you from a costly breakdown later.
3. Uneven or Sagging Garage Door
A garage door should open and close smoothly. If one side is lower than the other, or if the door looks lopsided, it’s time for an adjustment.
Balance Issues
An unbalanced garage door puts extra strain on the opener, leading to premature wear.
- Disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release cord.
- Manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the balance is fine. If it falls or rises, the springs may need adjustment.
- Spring adjustments can be dangerous. If you suspect a problem, call a professional for repair.
Structural Problems
If the door itself is sagging, worn panels or damaged hinges could be the cause.
- Inspect the panels for warping, cracks, or bending.
- Reinforce weak areas with a strut or replace damaged sections.
Garage Door Stuck, Noisy, Or Just Won’t Close?
4. Slow Response Time
A garage door that takes too long to open or close can be frustrating and might indicate a problem.
Opener Settings
Some garage door openers have adjustable speed settings.
- Check the opener’s manual for instructions on adjusting the speed.
- If the door still moves slowly, the motor could be struggling due to age or wear.
Signal Interference
A weak or delayed response can also be caused by signal disruptions.
- Make sure there are no obstructions blocking the opener’s antenna.
- If the problem persists, inspect the antenna for damage or reposition it for better reception.
5. Garage Door Reverses Before Closing Completely
A garage door that starts closing but then suddenly reverses is likely experiencing an issue with the sensors or limit settings.
Sensor Issues
Modern garage doors have safety sensors that prevent them from closing on an object or person.
- Inspect the sensors located near the bottom of the door tracks.
- Wipe off any dust, dirt, or cobwebs that might be blocking the sensor’s beam.
- Make sure the sensors are aligned. If one is out of place, the door may not close properly.
Limit Settings
If the garage door closes partway and then reopens, the opener’s limit settings might need adjustment.
- Locate the limit adjustment screws on the opener unit.
- Turn them slightly to modify how far the door travels before stopping.
- Test the door after each adjustment to avoid over-correcting.
6. Remote Control or Keypad Not Working
If your remote control or wall-mounted keypad stops working, it can leave you locked out of your own garage.
Battery Problems
This is the easiest issue to fix.
- Replace the batteries in the remote or keypad.
- Check that the batteries are inserted correctly.
Programming Issues
If replacing the batteries doesn’t work, reprogramming may be required.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for resetting the remote or keypad.
- If the opener has a “learn” button, press it and then enter the new code on the keypad or remote.
7. Garage Door Opens Slightly and Then Closes
If your garage door starts to open but then quickly shuts, you may have a spring or track problem.
Broken Springs
Garage door springs do most of the heavy lifting. When they break, the door can no longer function properly.
- Look for visible gaps in the torsion or extension springs.
- If a spring is broken, avoid using the door and call a professional. Spring replacement can be dangerous if not handled correctly.
Track Obstructions
If the tracks are blocked or misaligned, the door may not be able to move properly.
- Inspect the tracks for debris, dents, or loose fasteners.
- Clean out any obstructions and tighten the brackets securing the tracks to the wall.
DIY Fixes vs. When to Call a Pro
| DIY Fixes | Call a Pro For |
|---|---|
| Lubricate noisy rollers and hinges | Broken springs |
| Tighten loose nuts and bolts | Track misalignment or severe damage |
| Replace remote batteries | Opener motor failure |
| Align safety sensors | Garage door balance issues |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I lubricate my garage door parts?
Lubricate the rollers, hinges, and tracks every six months with a silicone-based lubricant. Avoid using WD-40, as it attracts dust and grime.
Why does my garage door open or close by itself?
This can be caused by signal interference, a stuck remote button, or a short in the opener’s wiring. Try resetting the opener and reprogramming the remote.
Can cold weather affect my garage door’s operation?
Yes, extreme cold can cause metal parts to contract, thickening lubricants and making movement sluggish. Regular maintenance helps prevent weather-related issues.
Why is my garage door opener light flashing but the door won’t move?
Flashing lights often indicate a sensor issue, power interruption, or an opener overload. Check the manual for specific error codes.
How can I manually open my garage door if the power is out?
Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the door from the opener, then lift it manually. Be cautious if the springs are damaged.
Is it safe to replace garage door springs myself?
Torsion springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury. Unless you’re experienced, spring replacement should be left to a professional.
Conclusion
A faulty garage door isn’t just frustrating—it can be a security risk and a safety hazard. Many common problems, like sensor misalignment or noisy operation, have quick fixes.
Others, such as broken springs or track issues, need professional attention before they worsen. Regular maintenance goes a long way in preventing costly repairs down the road.
If your garage door isn’t working as it should, let the experts handle it. We offer free appointments to assess the problem and recommend the best solution. Book your appointment today and get your garage door back to perfect working order.
