Garage door motor runs but the door wont move?
If the opener motor runs but the door does not move, the trolley is usually disconnected from the door (red release cord pulled), the opener's drive gear is stripped, or the belt or chain has broken.
If the opener motor runs but the door does not move, the trolley is usually disconnected from the door (red release cord pulled), the opener's drive gear is stripped, or the belt or chain has broken.
Common Causes
- 1 Trolley disengaged, the red emergency-release cord was pulled
- 2 Stripped main drive gear inside the opener (common on chain drives after ~10 years)
- 3 Broken or thrown drive belt or chain
- 4 Sheared trolley carriage or broken trolley
- 5 Broken spring, the opener runs but cannot lift the unbalanced door
What to Check First (DIY)
- Check if the red release cord is hanging down, re-engage by pulling it toward the door or running the opener until it re-latches
- Watch the chain or belt while you run the opener, if the motor spins but the belt does not move, the gear is likely stripped
- Look for a broken spring (a gap in the coil) before assuming it is the opener
- Listen, a grinding hum usually means a stripped gear; a fast free-spin means a broken belt or gear
When to Call a Pro
If re-engaging the trolley does not fix it, the opener likely needs a gear kit or belt/chain replacement, and if a spring is broken that must be handled first. A pro can diagnose in one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my opener run for a few seconds then stop with the door closed?
The trolley is disconnected from the door arm. Re-engage it by pulling the release cord back toward the motor or pressing the remote until it re-latches. If it will not re-latch, the trolley or gear is damaged.
Is a stripped opener gear worth fixing?
If the opener is under ~8 years old, a gear kit ($129 to $200) is usually worth it. Older or chain-drive units are often better replaced with a quiet belt-drive opener, we will give you both options and prices.
How do I know if it's the opener or a broken spring?
Pull the release cord and lift the door by hand. If it is heavy or will not stay up, it is a spring problem. If it lifts easily but the powered opener will not move it, it is the opener.
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