Garage door remote openers have made life a lot simpler since the 1950s, when controlling your garage door meant doing a lot of heavy lifting by hand. Today, all it takes is the touch of a button to open or close your garage door—until the remote breaks or gets lost, that is. Happily, while dealing with a broken or missing garage door opener remote might be inconvenient, replacing it isn’t a big deal.

Choosing a Replacement Garage Door Opener Remote

Like your TV, your garage door is designed to work with a specific remote. So the first thing you want to do is determine if you can get a replacement directly from the door manufacturer. If you have your original manual that came with your door, there’s a good chance it contains the contact information you need. Contact the manufacturer’s customer service department or technical help line to see if you can order a replacement remote directly.

To order a replacement, you’ll need the model number for your remote. Most remotes have the model numbers printed on them, either on a label on the back or side or sometimes in the battery compartment, underneath the batteries or on the back of the battery cover. If you can’t find the number on the remote, check the housing for the opener unit itself. Many manufacturers list the make and model number right on the box that contains the motor or drive unit. Be sure to turn off the power before checking these areas to avoid accidents.

Consider a Universal Garage Door Opener Remote

There are lots of garage door makes and models, and that means there are lots of different remote controls, too. Again, like your TV, some companies have made it easier to replace a broken or missing remote with a universal option that’s designed to work with many different makes and models.

Just like a remote from the original manufacturer, a universal remote needs to be programed and paired with your door before you can use it. Setting up a universal remote might take a few more steps than a remote from the door manufacturer, but as long as you follow the steps in the remote manual, setup is fairly straightforward.

Not all doors work with universal remotes, and not all universal remotes are compatible with every garage door manufacturer. Before buying a universal remote, check to make sure the remote you’re considering is designed to work with your specific door make and model.

What if you don’t have your manual or can’t find a way to contact the original company? Or what if you’re not sure which universal remote will work with your door? Give us a call. Chances are we can find the information you need to contact the company, or we may be able to order a new remote on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions