A Craftsman garage door opener light that goes off then back on can be frustrating, especially if it happens frequently. The garage door opener light is essential for visibility and security, so when it behaves unpredictably, it might indicate an underlying issue.
In this guide, we will explore why this happens, potential causes, and how to fix it. Whether the issue is due to faulty wiring, a malfunctioning circuit board, or a simple setting adjustment, we’ll help you troubleshoot and resolve it effectively.
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Why Does the Craftsman Garage Door Opener Light Go Off Then Back On?
Several factors can cause this issue, including:
✅ Loose or damaged wiring – Faulty wiring can interrupt the power supply to the light.
✅ Defective light socket – The socket may be worn out or corroded.
✅ Control board malfunction – A faulty control board can cause unpredictable light behavior.
✅ Interference from LED bulbs – Some LED bulbs can cause interference with the garage door opener system.
✅ Timer settings or auto-detection – The unit might be programmed to turn off and on automatically.
Now, let’s go through each possible cause and how to fix it.
1. Check the Light Bulb and Socket
The first thing to check is the light bulb itself. If the Craftsman garage door opener light goes off then back on, it could be due to:
🔹 A loose light bulb
🔹 A burnt-out or defective bulb
🔹 A faulty light socket
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the power to the garage door opener.
- Remove the light bulb and inspect the socket for dirt or corrosion.
- Replace the bulb with a compatible one (avoid LED bulbs that may cause interference).
- Ensure the bulb is screwed in tightly.
- Turn the power back on and test the light.
If the issue persists, move on to the next step.
2. Inspect the Wiring for Damage or Loose Connections
Faulty or loose wiring can cause intermittent power supply, leading the light to flicker or turn off and on unexpectedly.
How to Fix It:
- Unplug the garage door opener from the power source.
- Remove the opener’s light cover to access the wiring.
- Check for loose, disconnected, or frayed wires.
- Secure any loose wires and replace damaged ones.
- Plug the opener back in and test the light.
If the wiring is in good condition, the problem might be elsewhere.
3. Reset the Garage Door Opener’s Light Timer
Most Craftsman garage door openers have an adjustable light timer that determines how long the light stays on before turning off. If it’s set too short, it may appear to go off and back on unexpectedly.
How to Fix It:
- Locate the light timer settings in the opener’s user manual.
- Adjust the timer to a longer duration (typically 4-5 minutes).
- Test if the problem persists.
If adjusting the timer doesn’t work, proceed to the next step.
4. Replace or Reprogram the Logic Board
The logic board (circuit board) controls the opener’s light functions. If it’s malfunctioning, the light may flicker, turn off unexpectedly, or cycle back on.
How to Fix It:
- Power cycle the garage door opener – unplug it for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
- If the issue persists, reset the opener by pressing and holding the Learn button for 6-10 seconds.
- If resetting doesn’t work, consider replacing the logic board.
A replacement logic board costs between $50-$100, depending on the model.
5. Avoid LED Bulb Interference
Certain LED bulbs can interfere with the garage door opener’s frequency, causing the light to turn off and back on.
How to Fix It:
- Use garage door opener-compatible LED bulbs.
- Try a traditional incandescent bulb instead.
- Move wireless devices away from the opener to reduce interference.
6. Check the Safety Sensors and Auto-Detect Feature
Craftsman garage door openers have motion detection and safety sensors that can trigger the light unexpectedly. If the sensors are misaligned or dirty, the light may turn off and on unpredictably.
How to Fix It:
- Locate the safety sensors near the bottom of the garage door.
- Clean them with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
- Make sure they are aligned properly.
- Test the opener to see if the issue is resolved.
7. Consider a Full System Reset
If none of the solutions above work, resetting the garage door opener to its factory settings might resolve the issue.
How to Reset Your Craftsman Garage Door Opener:
- Unplug the unit from power for 10 minutes.
- Press and hold the Learn button for 6-10 seconds.
- Reprogram the remote control and keypads.
- Test the opener to check if the light works correctly.
When to Call a Professional
If your Craftsman garage door opener light goes off then back on despite trying all these fixes, it may require professional repair. Contact a garage door technician if:
❌ The circuit board is completely unresponsive.
❌ There’s significant wiring damage.
❌ The problem persists after replacing the bulb and resetting the system.
A professional can diagnose and repair internal electrical issues that may not be visible.
Final Thoughts
A Craftsman garage door opener light that goes off then back on can be caused by a variety of factors, including wiring issues, faulty sockets, or interference from LED bulbs. By troubleshooting step by step, you can usually fix the problem yourself.
If the issue persists after trying all the solutions, consider calling a technician for professional repair. Maintaining your garage door opener regularly can help prevent similar issues in the future.
Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know in the comments!