5 min read · A simple checklist before you call anyone
Quick answer: The most common reason a garage door will not open is a broken torsion spring — especially if you heard a loud bang. Other frequent causes: a dead opener, dead remote batteries, misaligned sensors, a pulled disconnect cord, a locked door, or a door off its track.
Before you assume the worst, know that most causes fall into a short, predictable list — and a couple you can fix yourself in under a minute. Here are the eight most common reasons, from quick DIY fixes to jobs that need a professional.
The #1 cause. If you heard a bang and the door will not move (or strains and stops), a spring has snapped. Look for a 1–2 inch gap in the spring above the door. This needs a professional.
If the wall button works but the remote does not, swap the batteries. Free, 30 seconds.
A tripped breaker or unplugged opener is common after a storm. Check the plug and the breaker.
That red cord disengages the door from the motor. Re-engage the trolley if the opener runs but the door does not move.
The floor-level sensors stop operation if dirty, bumped or blocked. Clear obstructions and make sure both lights are steady.
Check for an engaged manual slide lock or a lock button on the wall control.
If the door is crooked or jammed, a roller has left the track. Do not operate it — call a pro.
A snapped cable leaves the door crooked or stuck. Leave it and call a technician.
If the door has a broken spring or cable, or is off its track, do not keep hitting the opener or lift it by hand. These parts are under high tension — leave it and call for help.
Try these in order — they cover the fast, free fixes: test the wall button, confirm power and the breaker, check the red disconnect cord, look for a gap in the spring, clean and align the sensors, and make sure no lock is engaged. If none of those work, it is likely a spring, cable, or opener — time for a technician.
Whatever is stopping your door, we will diagnose it on-site and fix it the same day.