Why won't my garage door remote work?

The most common cause is dead batteries - try replacing them first. If that doesn't work, the remote may need reprogramming (instructions are usually on the opener unit). If multiple remotes fail, the issue is likely the opener's receiver.

How do I reprogram my garage door remote?

Locate the "Learn" or "Program" button on your opener unit (usually near the antenna). Press and release it, then press the button on your remote within 30 seconds. The opener lights will flash to confirm programming. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Why does my garage door reverse when closing?

This is usually a safety sensor issue. Check that both sensors have solid lights (not blinking), clean the lenses, and ensure nothing is blocking the beam. Direct sunlight can also interfere with sensors - a small shade can help.

How long do garage door openers last?

A quality garage door opener typically lasts 10-15 years with normal use. Chain-drive openers tend to be more durable but noisier, while belt-drive openers are quieter but may need replacement sooner. Smart openers have similar lifespans.

Can I replace just the motor in my opener?

In most cases, it's more practical to replace the entire opener unit. Modern openers are more energy-efficient, quieter, and include safety features that older motors lack. The labour required is similar for motor-only vs full replacement.

Why is my garage door opener making a clicking sound?

Clicking usually indicates the opener is trying to work but can't complete the action. Common causes include stripped gears, disconnected trolley, or the door being locked. Check the manual release isn't engaged and the door lock isn't activated.

Should I upgrade to a smart garage door opener?

Smart openers offer real convenience - you can check if your door is closed from anywhere, let in deliveries remotely, and receive alerts. They're worth considering if you often wonder "did I close the garage?" or want to integrate with home automation.

Garage Door Opener Not Working? Troubleshooting Guide for Australians

Remote not responding? Wall button doing nothing? Before you call for a new opener, try these quick checks - 70% of opener issues are simple fixes you can do yourself. This guide covers the most common opener problems and when professional repair is needed.

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Quick Answer: What to Do Right Now

✓ Try these safe checks first:

Replace remote batteries (CR2032 or AAA)
Check the wall switch is responsive
Ensure opener is plugged in and power point is on
Look for blinking lights on the motor unit
Check safety sensor alignment (lights should be solid)

⚠ Call a professional immediately if:

Motor hums but door doesn't move
Opener makes grinding/clicking sounds
Door reverses immediately after closing
Opener is more than 15 years old
Burning smell from the motor unit

Common Opener Problems & Solutions

Symptom	Likely Cause	Safe DIY Check	Call a Tech If...
Remote not working	Dead batteries or needs reprogramming	Replace batteries (CR2032 or AAA)	New batteries don't fix the issue
Wall button not working	Wiring issue or faulty button	Check power supply to opener	Power is on but button still unresponsive
Motor runs but door doesn't move	Broken gear, stripped drive, or disconnect engaged	Check if manual release cord was pulled	Release is engaged but door still won't move
Door reverses immediately after closing	Safety sensors misaligned or obstructed	Clean sensors and check alignment (green lights solid)	Sensors are aligned but issue persists
Opener makes grinding noise	Worn gears or chain/belt tension issue	Listen to locate where noise comes from	Grinding continues or gets worse
Door opens but won't close	Sensor issue or close limit setting	Check for obstructions or sunlight on sensors	No obstructions but door won't close
Opener light not working	Burnt bulb or socket issue	Replace bulb (use LED-compatible)	New bulb doesn't work
Keypad not responding	Dead battery or needs reprogramming	Replace 9V battery and test	New battery doesn't fix the issue

Remote not working

Likely cause: Dead batteries or needs reprogramming

Safe DIY check: Replace batteries (CR2032 or AAA)

Call a tech if: New batteries don't fix the issue

Wall button not working

Likely cause: Wiring issue or faulty button

Safe DIY check: Check power supply to opener

Call a tech if: Power is on but button still unresponsive

Motor runs but door doesn't move

Likely cause: Broken gear, stripped drive, or disconnect engaged

Safe DIY check: Check if manual release cord was pulled

Call a tech if: Release is engaged but door still won't move

Door reverses immediately after closing

Likely cause: Safety sensors misaligned or obstructed

Safe DIY check: Clean sensors and check alignment (green lights solid)

Call a tech if: Sensors are aligned but issue persists

Opener makes grinding noise

Likely cause: Worn gears or chain/belt tension issue

Safe DIY check: Listen to locate where noise comes from

Call a tech if: Grinding continues or gets worse

Door opens but won't close

Likely cause: Sensor issue or close limit setting

Safe DIY check: Check for obstructions or sunlight on sensors

Call a tech if: No obstructions but door won't close

Opener light not working

Likely cause: Burnt bulb or socket issue

Safe DIY check: Replace bulb (use LED-compatible)

Call a tech if: New bulb doesn't work

Keypad not responding

Likely cause: Dead battery or needs reprogramming

Safe DIY check: Replace 9V battery and test

Call a tech if: New battery doesn't fix the issue

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If you're seeing crooked movement, loose cables, or a heavy door, it's safer to stop using it. Call us for opener repair in your area or request a callback in 2 minutes.

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