Garage door won't open?
A garage door that won't open usually has a broken spring, a snapped cable or an opener fault. Check the slide lock, the opener's power and the red release cord first.
Car stuck inside? Call (707) 754-1755 and we'll talk you through it.
Most likely causes
- A broken spring Spring replacement, from $245
- A snapped or loose cable Off-track door and cables, from $225
- The opener Opener repair, from $185
- The door is locked Check the slide lock on the inside first
- No power to the opener Check the outlet and reset a tripped GFCI
- The wall control's lock button is on Turn it off and try the remote again
- The remote battery is dead If the wall button works, change the battery
Do not
- Lift a door with a broken spring. It is far heavier than it looks.
- Cut or loosen the cables. They hold the door under tension.
Won't-open questions
Why does the opener run but the door won't move?
Usually the red release cord has been pulled, which disconnects the door from the opener, or the opener's drive gear has worn down. A broken spring can do it too. The opener-runs page walks through all three.
How do I open the door during a PG&E power shutoff?
With the door all the way down and both springs whole, pull the red release cord, then raise the door with both hands. It should feel light, because the springs carry most of its weight. If it feels heavy or won't stay up, a spring may be broken: leave it closed and call. New openers sold in California since July 2019 have a battery backup that runs the door during an outage.
Can I drive out if the door is stuck half open?
Only if the opening is clear and the door isn't moving. Don't drive under a door that's sagging, crooked or hanging on one cable. If you're not sure, keep the car parked and call (707) 754-1755.