
A garage door that refuses to budge is more than a minor inconvenience—it can trap your car, disrupt your day, and even pose safety risks. At Queens NY Garage Door Repair, we’ve seen it all and we’re here to help you troubleshoot the most common issues and get your garage door working again.
Common Reasons a Garage Door Won’t Open
1. Dead Remote Batteries
Start with the simplest fix: check the remote. If the LED light doesn’t blink, try replacing the batteries. Still nothing? Reprogram the remote following your opener’s manual.
2. Disconnected or Damaged Power Source
Ensure the garage door opener is plugged in and hasn’t tripped a circuit breaker. If the outlet isn’t working, reset the breaker or test another appliance.
3. Broken Garage Door Springs
One of the most frequent causes of a non-opening garage door is a broken spring. Springs bear the weight of the door and help it move up and down. If a spring snaps, you may hear a loud noise, and the door may feel unusually heavy. Replacing springs is dangerous and should only be done by trained technicians. To understand more, visit our post on Why Garage Door Springs Break and How to Replace Them.
4. Photo Eye Sensor Blocked or Misaligned
Modern doors won’t close (or open fully) if the photo eye sensors detect an obstruction. Clean the lenses and make sure both sensors are aligned and glowing steadily.
5. Snapped Cables or Track Misalignment
Visibly frayed cables or bent tracks are major red flags. These mechanical failures require professional intervention to avoid further damage or injury.
Quick Troubleshooting Tips
- Check the wall switch: If the remote doesn’t work but the wall button does, it’s likely a remote issue.
- Listen for noises: Grinding or clicking can indicate a motor or track problem.
- Test manual release: Pull the emergency release cord to see if you can lift the door manually.
If your garage door opens manually, but not automatically, the issue likely lies with the opener or sensors.

When to Call a Professional
While some garage door fixes are DIY-friendly, many require specialized tools and training. Don’t risk injury or costly damage. If your door is unresponsive, off its tracks, or has broken springs, reach out to the experts.
Our technicians specialize in safe, fast repairs throughout Queens. Learn about the Top 5 Signs Your Garage Door Needs Repair to know when it’s time to act.
Final Thoughts
A stuck garage door doesn’t always mean major trouble—but ignoring it can lead to bigger issues. Whether it’s a simple remote fix or a full spring replacement, knowing what to look for can save time and stress. For comprehensive help, visit our Ultimate Guide to Garage Door Repair in Queens.