Having a garage is a convenience that many of us take for granted — but what happens when your garage door suddenly won't open, leaving your car trapped inside or outside? Don't panic! In this blog post from your friendly Fort Worth garage door contractors at Texas Garage Door Magic, we will discuss a few helpful tips to help you navigate this frustrating situation and get your car on the move again.
My Garage Won’t Open and My Car Is Stuck Inside or Outside. What To Do?
Troubleshoot the Issue
The first step is to identify what could be causing your garage door to malfunction. Check for any obvious problems like a dead battery in your remote, power outage, or disconnected garage door opener. Inspect the sensors on either side of the garage door for any obstruction or misalignment. Also, look out for any damaged or worn-out parts. Sometimes, a simple fix like replacing the batteries or realigning the sensors can solve the problem.
Use the Manual Release
Most garage doors have a manual release mechanism designed for situations like these. Look for a cord or lever usually located near the garage door opener motor. Pulling on this mechanism will disengage the door from the opener, allowing you to open and close it manually. Keep in mind that this method requires some physical effort, especially if you have a heavy garage door. Be cautious while manually lifting the door to avoid any injury.
Call a Professional Garage Door Technician
If you've tried troubleshooting and the manual release hasn't worked, it's time to call in our garage door company. At Texas Garage Door Magic, our professional garage door service technicians have the knowledge and tools to diagnose and fix complex issues. We can quickly assess the situation, repair or replace any faulty components, and ensure your garage door is back in working order. Attempting to fix the problem yourself if you're unsure can often make matters worse or lead to further damage.
Preventive Maintenance
Prevention is always better than a cure. Regular maintenance can save you from unexpected garage door troubles in the future. Schedule annual inspections with a reputable garage door company to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Lubricate the moving parts, tighten loose screws, and clean the tracks to keep the door functioning smoothly. By staying proactive, you can minimize the chances of your garage door failing when you least expect it.
Dealing with a garage door that won't open when your car is stuck inside or outside can be a frustrating experience. With the tips above, hopefully you can solve the source of your frustration. Of course, it’s still important to schedule regular maintenance to ensure the smooth operation of your garage door. Have a question? Need to find a Fort Worth garage door company you can trust? Get in touch with Texas Garage Door Magic today!