YES - I Hear the Motor Running
If the motor runs but the door doesn't move (or only moves slightly), the problem is usually mechanical.
Motor Runs, Chain or Belt Moves, Door Doesn't Go Up
First check: Emergency Release / Trolley
Make sure the trolley is engaged. This is the mechanism attached to the red handle and rope.
- If it's disengaged, push the tab up to re-engage it.
- This is often a simple fix.
Do one last check
- Pull the emergency release to disengage the trolley
- Re-engage the trolley
- Test the opener again
Likely cause if still not working
If the chain moves and the trolley is engaged, the opener may have a worn gear and sprocket.
Recommendation: Call a professional. Internal opener parts may need replacement.
Door Moves a Few Inches Then Stops
Most likely cause: Broken spring
Check for a visible gap in the spring above the garage door.
If you have an extension spring, it may look like this:
Other signs
- You heard a loud bang earlier
- The door feels extremely heavy
WARNING: Springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury.
Recommendation: Call a professional for a broken spring.
Door Is Crooked or Jammed
Likely cause: Broken cable
The cable normally runs down both sides under tension. If one cable breaks, the door may lift unevenly, causing the door to become crooked or jammed.
DANGER: Do not remove the bottom bracket unless you truly know what you're doing. It is under high tension.
Recommendation: Call a professional. Operating a door with a broken cable can cause more damage.
NO - I Don't Hear the Motor Running
If nothing happens when you press the button, the issue is most likely electrical or related to the opener's controls.
Check the Power
Is the opener plugged in?
Look up at the ceiling-mounted opener unit. Make sure the power cord is fully plugged into the outlet.
- Check if other lights or devices on the same circuit work
- Check the breaker panel - a tripped breaker is a common culprit
- If your opener has a light, does it come on?
Tip: Many power outages only affect a single circuit. Reset the breaker by flipping it fully OFF, then back ON.
Remote Doesn't Work, But Wall Button Does
Try these steps first
- Replace the batteries in the remote
- Move closer to the opener and try again
- Reprogram the remote to the opener (consult your owner's manual)
If none of those work
The receiver board in the opener may be faulty or the remote may need to be replaced.
Recommendation: A technician can test and replace the remote or receiver board quickly.
Wall Button Doesn't Work, But Remote Does
Check the wiring
This usually points to a wiring issue between the wall button and the opener.
- Inspect the wires for any damage or loose connections at the button and at the opener
- Try shorting the two wires at the opener terminals. If the opener activates, the wall button is faulty.
Caution: Only use low-voltage wiring for this test. Opener terminals use low voltage, but always disconnect power if you're unsure.
Recommendation: If the wiring looks damaged or you're uncomfortable testing, call a professional.
Call Immediately If:
- The garage door is hanging at an angle or looks crooked
- You see a broken spring (gap in the coil above the door)
- A cable has snapped and is hanging loose
- The door fell suddenly or made a very loud bang
- You smell burning or see sparks from the opener
Do not attempt to repair springs, cables, or bottom brackets yourself. These parts are under extreme tension and require specialized tools and training.
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