Garage Door Won’t Go Down? Here’s What to Check Before You Call

If your garage door won’t close all the way, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common garage door issues we see across Santa Cruz, Monterey, and nearby coastal neighborhoods like Aptos, Capitola, Hollister and Pacific Grove.

Whether your garage door reverses right before it hits the floor or stays stuck halfway, there are a few likely causes and some easy things you can check before calling Aaron Overhead Door.

1. Something’s Blocking the Photo Eye Sensors

Garage doors are designed with safety sensors called photo eyes that stop the door from closing if something’s in the way. If they’re dirty, misaligned, or blocked by something small (like a leaf or spider web), your door may not shut properly.

DIY quick fix:

• Wipe the sensors with a soft cloth.

• Make sure both eyes are aligned and glowing steadily (usually green or red).

• Clear any objects near the tracks.

2. The Remote Batteries Are Weak

If your remote works only sometimes, or not at all, it might be a battery issue. This is especially common in salty-air areas like Santa Cruz, where corrosion can also mess with the battery terminals.

Try this:

• Replace the remote batteries (most use coin-style batteries).

• Check for any rust or corrosion on the battery contacts.

3. Your Door Tracks Are Dirty or Bent

Sand, salt, and moisture can cause your garage door tracks to get dirty or even slightly rusted over time. That buildup can stop your door from closing smoothly.

What to check:

• Look along the tracks for grime, salt residue, or slight bends.

• Wipe them down with a damp cloth and apply garage door-safe lubricant.

⚠️ If you see deep dents or your door seems crooked, call Aaron Overhead Door at 831-219-8648 for service.

4. Salt Air Has Corroded Your Hardware

Coastal areas like Monterey and Santa Cruz are beautiful but the salty air is tough on metal. We often see hinges, rollers, or springs starting to corrode faster than inland homes.

Pro tip:

• Have a garage door technician inspect for rusted or worn parts.

• Regular maintenance (twice a year) helps avoid costly repairs.

5. The Limit Settings Are Off

If your garage door starts to close, then reverses suddenly, your opener might think it hit the ground too soon. This can happen if the limit settings are misadjusted. Something we occasionally see after a power outage or opener reset.

Best option: Call one of our local garage door technicians to adjust the settings safely, especially if you’re unsure how to do it.

6. Manual Lock Engaged

It’s surprisingly common for homeowners to accidentally engage the manual garage door lock.

Check for:

• A metal bar extending into the track from the inside handle

• A lock position marked on the handle mechanism

Disengage the lock and try closing the door again.

7. Weather Conditions or Swollen Door Panels

Garage doors made of wood can swell due to high humidity or rain, which may cause friction against the frame or floor.

Suggested Actions:

• Inspect for signs of rubbing or tightness near the bottom

• Sand or shave affected areas if swelling is minor

• Consider sealing or painting wood doors to prevent future moisture absorption

8. Worn Out Garage Door Rollers

Old or warped rollers can jam within the tracks, making it difficult for the door to lower smoothly.

Symptoms:

• Jerky movement during closing

• Squeaking or grinding noises

• Rollers visibly wobble or leave marks on the track

Replacing old rollers can restore smooth operation and reduce stress on the opener.

When to Call a Garage Door Pro for Help 

Garage door cables assist in lifting and lowering the door. If a cable has snapped or is unwinding from the drum, your door may become unbalanced and unable to close properly. These are dangerous things to try and fix yourself. 

Warning Indicators:

• Slanted or crooked garage door

• Loud banging sound when operating

• Visible frayed or loose cables near the tracks

Do not attempt to fix high-tension cables yourself. Call a professional immediately to avoid injury.

Still Won’t Close? Get Your Garage Door Working Today

If you’ve tried the basics and your garage door still won’t close properly, it’s best to have a technician take a look. Aaron Overhead Door can help today!

In places like Santa Cruz, Monterey, Scotts Valley, or Aptos, climate-related wear and tear is often the root of the issue. We specialize in garage door repairs designed for coastal homes. We’re local, licensed, and know exactly what salt air and fog can do to your system.

Call 831-219-8648 now or schedule an appointment online. We’ll get your garage door back on track, literally and figuratively.