Why Won’t My Garage Door Go Up?
If your garage door won't open, start with the quick checks below. In many cases, the issue is simple and can be identified in under a minute.
Quick Diagnosis: Check These First
Before calling for service, run through these common fixes:
- Confirm the opener has power. Check for a tripped breaker or GFCI outlet.
- Wipe and realign the safety sensors near the floor.
- Look for a visible broken spring or hanging cable.
- Make sure the trolley is engaged, not in manual release mode.
- Turn off vacation or lock mode on the wall control.
- Clear any objects blocking the door's path.
If none of these solve the problem, use the guide below to narrow it down.
What to Do When Your Garage Door Won't Open
Garage door problems usually follow a clear pattern. Matching the symptom to the likely cause can help you decide whether this is a quick fix or a job for a professional.
| Symptom | Likely Cause |
| Motor runs but door doesn't move | Broken spring or disengaged trolley |
| Door starts to open, then reverses | Dirty or misaligned safety sensors |
| Door won't respond to remote | Dead batteries, lock mode or signal issue |
| Door feels heavy when lifted | Failed tension spring |
| Grinding or jerking movement | Track or roller misalignment |
Fixing a Garage Door That's Stuck Closed
If your garage door is fully closed and won't budge, avoid forcing it. This often points to a spring or cable issue.
Springs counterbalance the door's weight, so a broken spring is one of the most common reasons a garage door won't go up. When one fails, the opener may run, but the door will stay put. You may also hear a loud bang when the spring breaks or notice the door feels unusually heavy.
Because garage doors can weigh hundreds of pounds, spring repairs are dangerous and should be handled by trained technicians.
Troubleshooting a Garage Door That Won't Go Up
If the door moves slightly or stops partway, sensors or tracks are often to blame.
Safety sensors, also called the photo eye, sit a few inches above the floor and must face each other. Even light dirt, bumped brackets or sunlight interference can stop the door from opening. Cleaning the lenses and checking alignment may restore operation.
Track problems can also prevent smooth movement. Look for bends, gaps or debris along the track. If the door grinds, jerks or comes off track, stop using it and schedule service to prevent further damage.
Garage Door Not Responding to the Button or Remote?
When wall controls work, but the remote doesn't, the issue is often simple. Replace the remote batteries and make sure you're within range, and then try to open the door. Check that Lock or Vacation mode is turned off on the wall panel.
If neither the wall button nor the remote responds, you'll need a professional, as the opener may need to be reset or may have lost power. In some cases, reprogramming the remote or reconnecting loose wiring solves the issue.
When to Call Door Pros
If your garage door still won't open, Door Pros can help diagnose and resolve the issue quickly. With decades of experience and status as a Clopay® Master Authorized dealer, our team provides residential and commercial garage door repair, installation and spring services throughout San Mateo, San Rafael, Sacramento, San Francisco and surrounding areas.
Contact Door Pros today to schedule service or request an estimate.