Opener runs but the door doesn't move
Check the release cord first. If the trolley is engaged, the drive gear has likely stripped. Repairs from $185.
Updated Oct 2026
Stop pressing the button.
Each run grinds more of a stripped gear away and can take the sprocket with it.
Three things to do now
- 1. Look at the trolley A hanging release lever means it is disconnected.
- 2. Lower the door first Re-engage the trolley only with the door closed.
- 3. Still grinding? Call That points to the drive gear.
Opener repair, from $185
Opener repairOpener repair
from $185Gear kit, logic board, limits or sensors
What can raise the price
- A logic board instead of a gear kit
- A part that has to be ordered for an older unit
- Sensor wiring that has to be rerun
Opener installation
from $620New opener with the battery backup California requires, installed and set up
What can raise the price
- Belt drive or a wall-mount unit instead of chain drive
- Wiring for the wall control or the sensors that has to be rerun
- A door out of balance, with the spring work priced separately
Opener questions
Why does my opener run but the door stays still?
Either the trolley is disconnected from the door or the nylon drive gear has stripped, the most common failure on chain-drive openers past about ten years. Chen Garage Door replaces gear kits in San Rafael and across Marin as part of opener repair, from $185.
How do I reconnect the trolley?
Close the door, then run the opener once. On most models the trolley latches back onto the carriage by itself. If the door is heavy by hand, call first, because a spring may have broken.
Is a stripped gear worth repairing?
On a sound opener under about fifteen years old, usually yes. Past that, the next part tends to follow. You get the repair price and the price of a new opener, from $620, at the same visit.
