5 Common Garage Door Problems You Can Fix Yourself Nov 03, 2025

When your garage door starts acting up, it can be a frustrating experience, especially if you aren't sure what's causing the problem. Conveniently, some garage door issues can be tackled with a bit of guidance and a few tools. At JM Garage Door Enterprises LLC, we understand the importance of a smooth, functioning garage door in your daily life. Here's a guide to five common problems you can address yourself, saving you time and avoiding unnecessary service calls.

Firstly, let's discuss the issue of a garage door refusing to open or close properly. This can often be traced back to the photo-eye sensor. Located on either side of the door, the photo-eye sensors are responsible for safety, preventing the door from closing if something is beneath it. Over time, these sensors can become dirty or misaligned, causing them to malfunction. To fix this, gently clean the sensor lenses with a soft cloth and ensure they are aligned correctly. If the door still doesn't move as expected, check that nothing is obstructing the sensors’ path.

Another frequent problem homeowners face is a garage door that makes excessive noise when opening or closing. While some noise is normal, grinding or screeching sounds can indicate an issue with the tracks or rollers. Begin by inspecting the tracks for any dirt or debris that could be causing friction. Cleaning these tracks and lubricating them with a silicon-based lubricant can often reduce or eliminate the noise. Don't forget to check the rollers themselves, as worn out or damaged rollers may need replacing.

A garage door that won’t open completely can be a perplexing issue. More often than not, this is a problem with the limit settings on the garage door opener. These settings tell the opener when to stop raising or lowering the door. Refer to your garage door opener's manual and adjust the limit settings until the door opens and closes all the way. This adjustment can usually be made using a screwdriver on the sides of the opener motor unit.

When your garage door opener doesn’t respond to remote commands, it could be as simple as a faulty remote or depleted batteries. Begin by replacing the batteries in your remote. If the problem persists, reprogramming the remote can often resolve the issue. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for programming your particular model. If reprogramming isn’t effective, consider replacing the remote altogether or checking for interference from nearby electronic devices.

Lastly, a misaligned garage door track is another common problem that can be resolved with a bit of technical know-how. If the door appears to be crooked or off-center, the tracks might be out of alignment. Examine the vertical tracks on either side for gaps between the rollers and the rail. Loosen the screws holding the track to the frame and adjust it until the gap is even, then retighten. Be sure to support the door while adjusting to prevent any accidents.

In conclusion, while some garage door problems require professional attention, many can be solved with a bit of patience and effort. Always prioritize safety when working on your garage door—disconnect the opener and keep your hands clear of moving parts. Should these solutions not resolve the issues, remember that JM Garage Door Enterprises LLC is here to provide expert assistance with a smile. With a little DIY knowledge, you can keep your garage door functioning smoothly and efficiently.