Key takeaways
- Short answer: The most common reason is the safety sensors (photo eyes) near the floor are blocked, dirty or out of alignment, which makes the door reverse.
- Check the photo-eye sensors first
- Clear debris from the tracks
- Broken cables or springs need a pro
- Typical garage door repair cost: $80–$675 per repair.
Fixes to try
- Look for anything blocking the door's path or the sensors.
- Wipe the sensor lenses clean.
- Check sensor lights — both should be solid. Gently adjust the bracket until they are.
- Make sure the wall control isn't in Lock or Vacation mode.
- Look for bent tracks or debris.
- Hold the wall button down — many openers will close manually if sensors fail; then fix the sensors.
When to call a technician
- Door is crooked or off track
- Cables are loose or frayed
- Door reverses even with sensors aligned
- You hear grinding from the opener
Related questions
Why does my garage door go down then back up?
Usually blocked or misaligned sensors, or the close-force setting needs adjusting.
Can sunlight affect garage door sensors?
Yes. Direct sun on the receiving sensor can interfere with it. Swapping sensor sides or adding a shield helps.
How much does it cost to fix garage door sensors?
Often just a cleaning or alignment. Replacing sensors is a relatively minor repair within the typical $80–$675 range.
Other garage door repair questions homeowners ask
Why won't my garage door close?
The most common cause is misaligned or dirty safety sensors. Obstructions, limit settings and track problems are next.
How much does garage door repair cost?
Most garage door repairs cost about $80–$675. The national average is around $260.
How much does garage door spring replacement cost?
Spring replacement typically costs $150–$350, with about $250 average. Replace both springs together so they wear evenly.
How long do garage door springs last?
Standard torsion springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, which is roughly 7–10 years at a few openings a day. Higher-cycle springs last longer.
Is it safe to use a garage door with a broken spring?
No. The door can slam down and the opener can be damaged. Leave it closed and call a technician.
Should I repair or replace my garage door?
Repair springs, cables, rollers and openers. Replace the door when panels are cracked, rusted or badly dented, or when repairs keep stacking up.
How much does a new garage door opener cost?
Installed openers usually cost a few hundred dollars, with quiet belt drives and smart models at the higher end.
How often should a garage door be serviced?
Once a year, plus lubricating the moving parts every 6 months and testing auto-reverse monthly.
Garage Door Repair at a glance
Timeline
Most repairs take 1–2 hours. A new door is usually installed in half a day.
Permits
Repairs need no permit. A new door may need one in high-wind code areas.
DIY or pro?
Lubricating rollers, tightening hardware and testing auto-reverse are DIY jobs. Springs and cables are under high tension, so call a pro.
What garage door repair costs
Garage door repair averages about $260, and most repairs cost $80–$675. Broken springs — the most common call — usually cost $150–$350 to replace.