Why won't my garage door open?
If your garage door will not open, the most likely causes are a broken spring, opener problem, disconnected trolley, engaged manual lock, power issue, or door/cable problem. If the door is heavy, crooked, or you heard a loud snap, stop and call a garage door pro.
The biggest mistake is forcing the opener. If the spring or cable failed, the opener can bend the rail, strip gears, or drop the door.
Most likely causes
Broken spring
$180 - $450+How to tellLoud snap/bang, visible gap in spring above door, opener strains but door barely moves
The fixReplace spring and balance door
Opener has no power or failed
$0 - $900How to tellNo lights/sound, wall button dead, or motor clicks but does not run
The fixCheck outlet/breaker/GFCI; repair or replace opener if power is present
Manual lock or trolley disconnect
$0 - $150How to tellMotor runs but door does not move; red emergency cord was pulled; door lock is engaged
The fixReconnect trolley or unlock door after confirming it is safe and level
Cable off drum or door off track
$150 - $600+How to tellDoor is crooked, one side lower, cable hanging loose, or roller popped out
The fixReset cables/track, replace damaged parts, balance door
Door frozen, obstructed, or binding
$0 - $400+How to tellDoor moves a few inches then stops; weatherstrip stuck; rollers grind or scrape
The fixClear obstruction, thaw seal carefully, repair rollers/track if binding
Try this first (before you pay anyone)
- Check power to the opener and try the wall button.
- Make sure the manual lock is not engaged.
- Look for a broken spring above the door before trying again.
- If the door is fully closed and level, you can pull the emergency release and try lifting by hand. If it feels extremely heavy, stop.
Unlock the hiring checklist
Use this before you call a garage door, so you know what to ask and what to avoid.
Call a pro when…
- You heard a snap or see a broken spring
- Door is crooked or off track
- Cable is loose or wrapped wrong
- Door is stuck open and the home is unsecured
- The opener strains or bends the rail
Repair or replace?
A door that will not open is usually a repair, not a replacement, unless the door sections or tracks are damaged. Spring, cable, opener, sensor, and lock problems are fixable. Replacement enters the conversation when panels are bent, parts are discontinued, or the door is unsafe even after repair.
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Related questions
Can I manually open a garage door with a broken spring?
You should not try unless it is absolutely necessary and you have help. Without the spring, the door can be extremely heavy and dangerous.
Why does my opener hum but the door won't move?
Common causes are a broken spring, stripped gear, jammed trolley, or unbalanced/binding door. Stop running the opener until the door is checked.
What if my car is trapped in the garage?
Call for same-day garage door repair and say the car is trapped. Do not force the door or pull the release if the door is crooked or spring/cable damage is visible.
Why won't my garage door open in cold weather?
Weatherstripping can freeze to the floor, grease can thicken, and worn rollers/springs can struggle. If freeing the seal does not solve it, have the balance and hardware checked.