Signs of Garage Door Motor Failure: When to Call a Professional

Your garage door motor is the powerhouse behind the seamless opening and closing of your garage door. However, like any other mechanical system, it’s bound to experience issues over time. Whether you’re hearing strange noises, noticing uneven movement, or struggling with an unresponsive remote, these signs often point to a garage door opener motor failure.

In this article, we’ll break down the common symptoms of a failing motor, explore the underlying causes, and help you decide whether to repair or replace your motor. Let’s dive in!

Common Signs of Garage Door Motor Failure

Knowing the early warning signs of a broken garage door opener motor can save you time, money, and frustration. Below are the most common symptoms to watch out for.

Unusual Noises

If your garage door motor is making grinding, clicking, or buzzing sounds, it’s likely struggling to function. These noises can indicate:

• Worn-out gears
• Loose components within the motor
• Motor strain due to excessive weight

Ignoring unusual noises can worsen the damage over time. If the sounds persist, it’s time to consider garage door motor repair.

Garage Door Fails to Open or Close

One of the most obvious signs of garage door motor broken issues is when the door simply refuses to move. If you’re stuck with a door that won’t open or close, the motor might have completely failed or be experiencing a power issue.

Before assuming the worst, check for other factors like power outages or dead remote batteries. If everything else works fine, the motor is likely the culprit.

Garage Door Moves Unevenly or Shakes

When your garage door starts jerking, shaking, or moving unevenly, the motor may be having trouble evenly distributing power. This problem often points to:

• Damaged gears 
• A weakened motor unable to handle the door’s weight

Not addressing these issues promptly could lead to further motor damage or even damage to the door itself.

Remote Control or Wall Switch Becomes Unresponsive

Another sign of how to tell if garage door motor is broken is when the remote control or wall switch doesn’t activate the door. If replacing the batteries or checking the connection doesn’t fix the problem, the motor could be experiencing electrical or internal issues.

Causes of a Broken Garage Door Motor

Understanding what causes failure can help you take better care of your garage door system. Below are some common reasons behind issues.

Overloading the Motor with Excessive Weight

Garage doors come in different weights, and motors are designed to handle specific loads. If your door is too heavy—perhaps due to a broken spring or incorrect garage door installation—the motor will strain to lift it. Over time, this strain can lead to failure.

Poor Maintenance and Lack of Lubrication

Neglecting routine maintenance, such as lubricating moving parts or inspecting the system, can put unnecessary stress on the motor. A lack of lubrication can cause friction, which forces the motor to work harder than necessary, reducing its lifespan.

When to Call a Professional for Motor Repairs

So, how do I know if my garage door motor is broken, and when should I call an expert? While some minor issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting (like replacing remote batteries or resetting the system), most motor problems require professional attention.

Call a professional if:

• You notice grinding noises or a burning smell.
• The motor overheats frequently.
• The door moves erratically or refuses to open/close.
• Electrical issues persist despite resetting the system.

Experienced technicians can diagnose the problem, determine if a repair is possible, and ensure your garage door system operates safely.

Repair vs. Replacement: What’s the Best Option?

Deciding between motor repair and replacement depends on several factors, including:

• Age of the Motor: If your motor is more than 10-15 years old, replacement is often the best choice.
• Cost of Repairs: If repair costs exceed half the price of a new motor, it’s more economical to replace it.
• Frequency of Issues: Recurring problems might indicate the system is nearing the end of its lifespan.

A professional can help you weigh the costs and benefits of repairing versus replacing your motor to make the right decision for your budget and long-term needs.

Preventive Maintenance for a Healthy Garage Door Motor

Preventing failure is all about routine care and attention. Here are some tips to keep your motor running smoothly:

1. Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a high-quality lubricant on springs, chains, and rollers to reduce strain.
2. Inspect for Wear and Tear: Check for signs of damage, like frayed belts or worn-out gears, and address them early.
3. Schedule Regular Maintenance: Annual tune-ups from a garage door repair professional can catch potential issues before they escalate.
4. Balance Your Door: Make sure the door is balanced and not putting unnecessary weight on the motor.
5. Use Surge Protection: Protect circuit board from power surges with a surge protector.

Taking these steps can extend the life of your motor and ensure your garage door operates reliably.

Conclusion: Ensuring Long-Term Garage Door Reliability

A failing garage door motor can disrupt your day and compromise the security of your home. By knowing the signs of garage door opener motor failure—such as unusual noises, unresponsiveness, and overheating—you can address issues before they worsen.

Whether you’re dealing with a broken garage door opener or deciding whether to repair or replace your system, calling a professional is often the safest and most effective solution. And with regular maintenance, you can keep your motor running smoothly for years to come.

For expert garage door installation and other services, visit Marko Door. With years of experience and a reputation for reliability, their team is here to keep your garage door in top condition.