How Do I Fix a Garage Door That Stops Halfway Down?

A garage door that stops midway when closing is more than just a hassle—it could be a safety risk or a sign of a deeper issue. Thankfully, several common problems could be causing this, and most can be addressed with the right troubleshooting steps.

1. Obstructed or Misaligned Sensors

Garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing on objects. If the sensors are misaligned or dirty, they may cause the door to stop midway or reverse direction. Check the alignment and clean the lenses.

2. Limit Settings Need Adjustment

Garage door openers have limit settings that control how far the door travels. If these settings are incorrect, the door may believe it has hit the ground and stop early. Refer to your opener's manual to adjust these limits properly.

3. Damaged Tracks or Rollers

If the tracks are bent or obstructed, or if the rollers are worn out, the door may struggle to move smoothly and stop halfway. Look for visible signs of wear or misalignment.

4. Broken or Worn Springs

If a spring is broken or weakened, the door may lack the force to close completely. Springs carry the door's weight and are vital for proper operation.

5. Motor Issues

A weak or overheating garage door motor might shut off prematurely to avoid damage. If this happens often, the motor may need servicing or replacement.

Conclusion

If your garage door consistently stops halfway, check the sensors, tracks, rollers, and settings. Some adjustments are safe for DIY, but issues involving springs or motors should be handled by professionals. We offer expert diagnostics and free on-site quotes to help you get your door functioning smoothly again.