Is there a slight problem with your garage door... like for instance, it won't open at all? Or it won't open smoothly, but instead creaks and grinds and makes every kind of unholy noise while it makes its way slowly to the other end of the track? If so, we've got a problem.

It's time to fix it. If you don't know much about garage door openers, it may seem daunting. But, before you call a repair person and start spending money, let's look at how to repair garage door openers. It may be something simple that you can fix yourself.

Something In The Way

Before you start getting elbow deep in repair work, check to see if anything is in the way of the tracks, genius. It's really easy for a tool or something to fall off the wall and land right on the edge of your track. If something's there remove it, and keep your garage in better order from now on!

Tighten Everything

Nine times out of ten, just tightening all the bolts and screws will fix the problem. Garage door openers often don't run as smoothly as they should because something is just loose. Especially on the tracks, go through and tighten everything, then give it a test run and see if it works better.

Check The Alignment

The tracks should be aligned perfectly. They should be at exactly the same height. One cause of problems with garage door openers is that they aren't quite aligned, and this is causing the door to move unnaturally when it opens. To fix this, loosen the track and tap it back into place. Then, retighten it.

Maybe It's The Motor

Now, troubleshoot your motor. If it isn't opening at all, this is probably the source of the problem. Make sure everything is plugged in tight. If it won't open with the remote, try doing it manually on the motor's control box.

If that works, you'll know it's the remote or sensors. Most garage door openers come with a spare remote, so see if you can find it and try that one. This way, you can tell if it's just the remote.

Serious motor problems need the help of a professional. There could be a problem with the motor's wiring, or you might need replacement parts that only a repair company can provide.

Most simple problems with garage door openers can be fixed by tightening or adjusting the tracks. If the trouble is something over your head, go ahead and call the repair company, and dig around and find that warrantee!