Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them

March 19, 2025

Your garage door is one of the most used entry points in your home, and like any mechanical system, it can develop issues over time. Ignoring small problems can lead to bigger, costlier repairs. At Veterans Garage Doors, we believe in helping homeowners understand common garage door issues and how to fix them. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent problems and their solutions.

1. Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

This is one of the most frustrating issues homeowners face. The cause can range from power supply problems to misaligned sensors. How to Fix:

  • Check if the garage door opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker isn’t tripped.
  • Inspect the safety sensors at the bottom of the door to ensure they are aligned and free from obstructions.
  • If the remote control isn’t working, try replacing the batteries.

2. Noisy Garage Door

A garage door that squeaks, grinds, or rattles is a sign of worn-out or improperly lubricated parts. How to Fix:

  • Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers, hinges, and springs.
  • Tighten any loose nuts and bolts on the tracks and brackets.
  • If the noise persists, it may be due to worn-out rollers or hinges that need replacement.

3. Garage Door Moves Unevenly

If one side of the garage door seems lower or higher than the other, it could be due to a problem with the springs or tracks. How to Fix:

  • Check for debris or obstructions in the tracks and clean them thoroughly.
  • Look for bent or damaged tracks and replace them if needed.
  • If the issue is due to broken springs, call a professional. Spring replacement is dangerous and should only be handled by trained technicians.

4. Garage Door Opens and Closes Too Slowly

If your garage door seems sluggish, it could be a sign of worn-out components or an issue with the opener settings. How to Fix:

  • Check the opener’s speed settings and adjust them if possible.
  • Lubricate moving parts to reduce friction.
  • Inspect the springs for wear and tear; if they are old or damaged, they may need replacement.

5. Remote Control or Keypad Not Working

If your remote control or keypad suddenly stops functioning, the problem could be as simple as dead batteries or signal interference. How to Fix:

  • Replace the batteries in the remote or keypad.
  • Reprogram the remote according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Ensure there’s no interference from nearby electronic devices.

6. Garage Door Won’t Stay Open or Closes Too Quickly

If your garage door refuses to stay open or slams shut, the issue is likely with the springs or the garage door opener’s settings. How to Fix:

  • Check the spring tension; if they’re too tight or too loose, they need adjustment.
  • Test the opener’s force settings and adjust them accordingly.
  • If the issue persists, consult a professional for spring or opener repair.

When to Call a Professional

While some garage door problems can be fixed with basic troubleshooting, others require expert attention. If you notice broken springs, damaged tracks, or persistent operational issues, it’s best to call a professional. Veterans Garage Doors provides expert garage door repair, installation, maintenance, spring replacement, and opener repair & replacement in Louisville, Kentucky. Our team ensures safe and reliable solutions to keep your garage door functioning smoothly.


Contact us today at Veterans Garage Doors for professional garage door services!

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