Few things are more frustrating than a garage door that suddenly won’t open—especially when you’re running late or trying to secure your home. If your garage door won’t open, the issue could be anything from a simple sensor blockage to a serious mechanical failure that requires immediate attention.
Garage doors are complex systems with moving parts under high tension, which means even small issues can quickly become safety hazards if ignored. Knowing what’s causing the problem can help you decide whether it’s a quick fix or time to call a professional.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common reasons a garage door won’t open, what you can safely check on your own, and when it’s best to contact a local garage door repair expert.
Most Common Reasons a Garage Door Won’t Open
Broken Garage Door Springs
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Springs lift hundreds of pounds of weight
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A loud “bang” is often the warning sign
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Door may feel extremely heavy or not move at all
Garage Door Opener Not Working
Common causes:
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Dead remote batteries
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Unplugged opener
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Tripped circuit breaker
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Faulty wall switch
Quick checks:
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Try the wall button
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Replace batteries
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Check power source
Safety Sensors Are Blocked or Misaligned
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Sensors stop the door if something blocks the beam
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Dirt, dust, or slight bumps can misalign them
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Usually causes door to start closing then reverse
Garage Door Is Stuck Closed Due to Track Issues
Signs:
Emergency Lock or Manual Release Engaged
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Manual release cord pulled accidentally
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Often happens during power outages
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Door won’t respond to opener
What You Can Safely Check Before Calling a Pro
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Check remote batteries
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Make sure opener is plugged in
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Clear sensor lenses
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Look for visible obstructions
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Confirm manual release isn’t engaged
❌ Avoid:
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Touching springs
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Forcing the door open
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Adjusting cables
When to Call for Emergency Garage Door Repair
Call a professional immediately if:
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You suspect a broken spring
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The door is off-track
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The door is stuck halfway
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You hear loud grinding or snapping sounds
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The garage won’t secure your home
If your garage door won’t open, fast response matters—especially when safety or property security is at risk.
How Professional Garage Door Repair Saves You Time & Money
Benefits:
Preventing Future Garage Door Problems
Tips:
Conclusion
A garage door that won’t open is more than an inconvenience—it’s a safety and security issue. While some problems are easy to spot, others require professional expertise to fix safely and correctly.
If your garage door won’t open in Sacramento, CA, Moja Garage Doors is ready to help with fast, reliable service you can trust. Contact us today for expert diagnosis and same-day repair.
