Have you ever had to program or reprogram your garage door remote? If so, you may have found the process frustrating or confusing. The good news? It doesn’t have to be! Whether you have a modern garage door opener or an older model, follow these steps to get your remote synced and working in no time.
Programming a Garage Door Remote with a Learn Button
Most garage door openers today use rolling code technology, making them easy to program. If you’re setting up remotes for a newly installed garage door opener, follow these simple steps:
- Locate the Learn button on your garage door motor unit.
- Press and release the Learn button.
- Within 30 seconds, press and hold the button on your remote.
- Wait for the garage door opener lights to flash or listen for a clicking sound—this confirms your remote is synced.
Reprogramming After Moving or Losing a Remote
If you’ve moved into a new home or lost a remote, you’ll want to erase the previous codes and reset the system:
- Press and hold the Learn button until the indicator light turns off or you hear two clicks. This erases all previously programmed remotes.
- Follow the steps above to program new remotes.
Pro Tip: If your garage door motor doesn’t have lights, listen for a clicking sound to confirm successful programming.
How to Program a Garage Door Remote Without a Learn Button
If your garage door opener was made before 1993, it likely uses DIP switches instead of a Learn button.
- Locate the DIP switches inside the garage door motor unit (usually behind the cover).
- Find the DIP switches inside your remote (near the battery).
- Adjust the switches inside the remote to match the ones in the motor unit.
- Press the remote button to test if the garage door opens.
Older systems don’t have rolling codes, so they aren’t as secure as modern openers. If you’re still using a DIP switch system, consider upgrading to a newer, more secure model.
What If You Can’t Find a Compatible Remote?
If your garage door remote is lost or discontinued, a universal remote may be a great alternative. However, not all universal remotes work with all garage door openers.
- If your garage door opener uses DIP switches, make sure to buy a universal remote with DIP switch compatibility.
- For openers with a Learn button, check the manufacturer’s compatibility list before purchasing.
Universal remotes typically program the same way as brand-name remotes, but always read the included instructions for specific steps.
Need Help with Programming or Garage Door Repairs?
At Above & Beyond Door Systems, we specialize in garage door opener installation, repairs, and programming. Whether you need help setting up a new remote, troubleshooting an issue, or upgrading your system, our team is here for you.
Programming a garage door remote doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right steps, you can have your remote working quickly—whether you’re setting up a brand-new system or reprogramming an old one. And if you ever run into trouble, Above & Beyond Door Systems is just a phone call away!