Why Does My Garage Door Open and Then Close?

A door that reverses unexpectedly may be responding to a safety sensor, resistance in its travel, or an opener setting.

By Everyday Home Advice Editorial Team

Black paneled garage door on a residential home exterior

A door that reverses unexpectedly may be responding to a safety sensor, resistance in its travel, or an opener setting.

When does it reverse?

Notice whether it reverses immediately, near the floor, halfway through travel, or at the same point every time. The pattern can point to the cause.

Check the doorway

Remove obvious obstructions and inspect the area around the safety sensors.

Look at the tracks

From a safe position, check for obvious debris or damage. Don't loosen track or spring hardware.

Is the door moving unevenly?

If one side moves differently from the other, stop using it. Cable or spring problems can make continued operation unsafe.

Don't keep forcing it

Repeatedly running an obviously struggling door can turn a mechanical problem into a worse one. Find Local Garage Door Help