Craftsman Garage Door Opener Closes When You Hit The Button: Troubleshooting & Fixing the Issue

Introduction

A Craftsman garage door opener is designed to provide seamless access to your garage with the push of a button. However, if your Craftsman garage door opener closes when you hit the button without opening, or if it behaves erratically, it can be both frustrating and inconvenient.

This guide will help you diagnose and fix the problem by explaining the potential causes and step-by-step solutions. Whether it’s an issue with the safety sensors, remote control, or motor settings, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

Read tooo: Craftsman Garage Door Opener 1/2 HP Programming for Effortless Setup

Why Does My Craftsman Garage Door Opener Close When I Hit The Button?

If your Craftsman garage door opener closes when you hit the button and doesn’t respond as expected, several factors could be at play, including:

1. Misaligned Safety Sensors – If the infrared sensors are blocked or not aligned, the door might behave unpredictably.
2. Faulty Remote Control or Wall Button – A malfunctioning remote or button can cause unintended door movements.
3. Wiring Issues – Damaged or loose wiring can interfere with the opener’s signals.
4. Garage Door Travel Limits Set Incorrectly – If the opener’s travel limits are misadjusted, the door may not open properly.
5. Obstructions in the Door’s Path – If the system detects an object blocking the door, it may automatically close.
6. Malfunctioning Logic Board – A faulty control board can cause unexpected door behavior.

Let’s go step by step to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Craftsman Garage Door Opener Closes When You Hit The Button – Troubleshooting Guide

Step 1: Check the Safety Sensors

The most common reason a Craftsman garage door opener closes when you hit the button is misaligned or dirty safety sensors. These sensors prevent the door from closing on people or objects, but if they are not working correctly, they may cause the door to malfunction.

How to Fix It:

1. Locate the sensors – They are mounted near the bottom of the garage door tracks, about 6 inches off the ground.
2. Ensure alignment – Each sensor should face directly at the other. If they are out of alignment, adjust them until their LED lights are solid (not blinking).
3. Clean the sensors – Use a soft cloth to wipe away dirt or dust from the sensor lenses.
4. Check for obstructions – Remove any objects that may be blocking the sensors’ line of sight.

Step 2: Test the Wall Button and Remote Control

A malfunctioning remote or wall button may cause the door to close unexpectedly.

How to Fix It:

1. Check the remote battery – Replace the battery in your remote control if it’s weak or dead.
2. Test the wall button – Press the wall button to see if the door operates correctly. If it still closes immediately, the button may be defective.
3. Reprogram the remote – Sometimes, reprogramming the remote can resolve signal issues. Follow your Craftsman opener’s manual for reprogramming steps.

Step 3: Inspect the Garage Door Travel Limits

The travel limits determine how far the garage door opens and closes. If these are set incorrectly, the opener might not open the door properly.

How to Adjust Travel Limits:

1. Locate the adjustment screws – These are usually on the back or side of the motor unit.
2. Turn the “Up” adjustment screw – Rotate clockwise to increase the opening distance.
3. Turn the “Down” adjustment screw – Rotate counterclockwise to prevent the door from closing too far.
4. Test the door – Open and close the door a few times to check the adjustments.

Step 4: Check for Wiring Issues

Damaged or loose wiring can cause erratic garage door behavior.

How to Fix It:

1. Inspect the opener’s wiring – Look for loose connections or frayed wires.
2. Secure loose wires – Tighten any loose connections to the motor unit.
3. Replace damaged wires – If wires appear cut or frayed, replace them or call a professional electrician.

Step 5: Look for Obstructions in the Door’s Path

If something is blocking the garage door tracks, the system may automatically reverse.

How to Fix It:

1. Inspect the tracks and rollers – Remove any debris or obstructions.
2. Lubricate the rollers – Apply garage door lubricant to ensure smooth movement.
3. Manually move the door – If the door feels stuck, check for track misalignment.

Step 6: Reset the Garage Door Opener

Sometimes, a simple reset can fix the issue.

How to Reset Your Craftsman Garage Door Opener:

1. Unplug the opener – Disconnect the power and wait 30 seconds.
2. Reconnect power – Plug it back in and test the door.
3. Reprogram remotes and keypads – If needed, reset remote settings according to the manual.

Step 7: Inspect the Logic Board

A faulty logic board can cause unexpected garage door movements.

How to Fix It:

1. Check for burn marks – Open the motor unit and inspect the logic board for visible damage.
2. Look for blinking LED lights – Certain error codes may indicate a logic board failure.
3. Replace the logic board – If you suspect failure, replace the board following manufacturer instructions.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve gone through these troubleshooting steps and your Craftsman garage door opener closes when you hit the button without opening correctly, it may be time to call a garage door technician. Professional help is recommended if:

• The issue persists after resetting and adjusting settings.
• There’s visible electrical damage.
• The opener motor is making loud, unusual noises.

Preventative Maintenance for Your Craftsman Garage Door Opener

To avoid future issues, perform regular maintenance:

1. Clean safety sensors monthly – Prevents obstruction-related malfunctions.
2. Lubricate moving parts – Apply lubricant to rollers, hinges, and tracks every 6 months.
3. Check remote batteries – Replace batteries once a year.
4. Inspect travel limits periodically – Prevents incorrect door movement.

Conclusion

If your Craftsman garage door opener closes when you hit the button, the problem could be due to sensor misalignment, faulty remote controls, wiring issues, or incorrect travel limit settings. By following this troubleshooting guide, you can diagnose and fix the problem effectively.

Regular maintenance and proper adjustments will help keep your garage door opener functioning smoothly, ensuring safety and convenience for years to come.