Few things are more frustrating than hitting the garage door remote— and nothing happens. Or worse, the door starts to close, then reverses for no clear reason. When garage doors are often the main entry point for the home, this kind of issue can throw off your whole day.
Before you panic (or call for service), let’s walk through some of the most common reasons your garage door won’t close and what you can do to fix them.
Check the Safety Sensors
Modern garage doors are equipped with photo-eye sensors on either side of the door, a few inches off the ground. If something is blocking the beam, or the sensors are dirty or misaligned, your door won’t close.
Quick fix:
Make sure nothing is in the way. Wipe the sensors clean with a soft cloth and check that they’re facing each other directly.
Your Remote Needs a Battery (or Reprogramming)
Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a dead battery in your remote. If the wall button works but the remote doesn’t, this is likely your issue. If the remote and wall control don’t work, it may be a programming or wiring problem.
Quick fix:
Try replacing the battery first. If that doesn’t help, you may need to reprogram the remote or call a technician to inspect the wall unit wiring.
The Door Tracks Are Blocked or Damaged
Even a small object in the track — or a bent section — can stop the door from moving properly. California’s dry climate can cause dust, small debris, or even a loose bolt to cause problems over time.
Quick fix:
Look along the tracks for anything out of place. Clear any obstructions, and don’t try to bend or force anything yourself, as damaged tracks require professional repair.
Broken Garage Door Springs or Cables
If you hear a loud snap or the door feels incredibly heavy when trying to close it manually, a spring or cable might be broken. These are essential parts of your system and can be dangerous to fix on your own.
What to do:
Call a garage door technician immediately. Do not attempt to repair or replace springs or cables without the proper tools and experience, serious injuries may occur.
The Door Limit Settings Are Off
Garage door openers have settings that tell the door how far to open or close. If these settings shift (especially after a power outage or installation), the opener may think the floor is an obstruction and reverse.
Quick fix:
Check your owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the limit settings. It’s a small adjustment, but it can make a big difference.
Still Stuck? Let the Pros Handle It.
If your garage door still won’t close after checking these issues, it might be time to call in the experts. Our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all makes and models. We serve homeowners throughout California with fast, reliable service. Contact The Door Company today for emergency garage door repair and get your door (and your day) back on track!