How do I move a garage door that's stuck halfway?

A door that stops partway is often being held there by the opener while something else has failed, such as a broken spring, a broken cable or a door that has come out of its track. Pulling the emergency release or pushing the door the rest of the way can take away that support and let it drop without warning. The safe way to move it is to have a technician support the door and fix the cause.

Read the symptom

• It stopped after a loud bang: likely a broken spring or cable. Do not touch the door.
• It slowed with grinding or scraping: possible track obstruction or misalignment.
• It reverses partway on its own: often a blocked or misaligned safety sensor, an obstruction, or an opener force setting that needs adjustment.
• Nothing happens, or the motor runs but the door does not move: check power and the opener's chain or belt.

Checks that keep you out of harm's way

• From outside the door's travel, look for anything visibly blocking the track and note the sensor lights.
• Confirm the opener has power and the remote has working batteries.
• Look up at the springs, if visible, for a gap in the coil. Do not touch them.
• Do not reach under the door to clean sensor lenses or pull out objects.

When to call

If you heard a bang, see a broken spring or loose cable, or the basic checks do not get the door moving again, stop and call. A half-open door also leaves the garage unsecured. We offer emergency help when a door is unsafe or the home cannot be secured. Call with your address and we confirm the next available appointment and an arrival window.

Read more

• Garage door stuck halfway
• Emergency garage door repair
• Garage door spring replacement

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