Narrow It Down
Wall button works, one remote doesn't
That remote's battery, or it lost its programming
Wall button works, no remotes work
Lock mode is on, or the receiver has a problem
Remote only works when you're right at the door
Weak battery or radio interference, often from a bulb
Keypad dead, remotes fine
Keypad battery
Nothing works, even the wall button
Power or the opener itself
Step by Step
1. Replace the battery
Remotes use small coin or button batteries. Pop the case open and match the number printed on the old one. Keypads usually take a 9 volt or AA batteries behind the cover.
2. Check the lock button
Most wall controls have a lock or vacation setting that shuts out every remote. A light on the wall control may blink when it's on. Hold the lock button for a few seconds to turn it off.
3. Reprogram the remote
Find the "learn" button on the motor unit, usually under the light cover or near the antenna. Press it, then press the remote button within about 30 seconds.
The opener light blinks or clicks when it's paired. Your opener's manual has the exact steps.
If you've lost a remote, clear all remotes from memory and reprogram the ones you have, so the lost one stops working.
4. Look at your light bulbs
This one surprises people. Some cheap LED bulbs, in the opener or nearby, give off radio noise that drowns out the remote. The classic sign is a remote that only works up close.
Take the bulbs out and try again. If the remote suddenly works from the street, swap in bulbs labeled for garage door openers.
5. Check the antenna
The opener has a short wire antenna hanging from the motor. Make sure it hangs straight down and isn't tucked up or damaged.
When to Call a Technician
If none of that works, the receiver or circuit board in the opener may have failed. Summer thunderstorms around Durham take out a fair number of opener boards. A technician can test it and replace the board or the opener.
On an opener older than about 15 years, new remotes may not even be made for it anymore. That's often the point where a new opener makes more sense than chasing parts.
If the door opens but won't close, that's a sensor problem, not a remote one. See door won't close. If the opener runs but the door barely moves, read opener repair.
Still stuck? Send the form or call (919) 555-0136.