The Most Common Garage Door Repairs and How to Avoid Them

On the electronic side, sensor misalignment is a leading cause of frustration. Modern doors feature safety eyes near the floor that prevent the door from closing if an object blocks the path. If these sensors get bumped by a bike tire, a trash can, or even a stray ball, they lose their connection. The result is a door that opens fine but refuses to close, often reversing immediately and blinking its lights.

Similarly, the metal tracks that guide the door must remain perfectly aligned and clean. Dust, debris, and old hardened grease can build up in the tracks, causing the rollers to drag rather than roll. This friction forces the opener to work harder, leading to premature motor burnout. You can easily avoid these headaches by keeping the area around your sensors clear and wiping down the inside of your tracks with a damp cloth periodically. Do not use grease in the tracks, as it attracts dirt; instead, keep them clean and ensure the mounting brackets are tight against the wall.

By keeping an eye on these critical components and performing simple visual checks, you can catch problems while they are small, ensuring your garage door remains a reliable convenience rather than a source of stress.