Why Won't My Garage Door Close?

If the door starts down and then reverses, check the safety-sensor area first.

By Everyday Home Advice Editorial Team

Suburban home exterior with an attached two-car garage and driveway

If the door starts down and then reverses, check the safety-sensor area first.

Look near the bottom of the tracks

Automatic garage doors commonly use safety sensors near the floor. Make sure nothing is blocking the path.

Check for dirt or misalignment

A dirty or bumped sensor can interfere with normal operation. Follow the opener manufacturer's instructions for checking sensor alignment.

Look at the door path

Make sure nothing is physically obstructing the door.

What if the door is crooked?

Stop operating it if it appears badly uneven or unstable. A cable, spring, roller, or track problem may be involved.

Don't defeat the safety system

Don't bypass or permanently override the safety sensors just to make the door close. They're there for a reason. Find Local Garage Door Help