What Causes a Garage Door to Get Stuck Halfway?

A garage door that gets stuck halfway open or closed is more than just an inconvenience—it can be a serious safety risk and security issue. Many homeowners in Indianapolis experience this problem unexpectedly, often when they are rushing to work or returning home. Understanding why a garage door gets stuck halfway can help you act quickly, avoid further damage, and know when to call a professional.

Below are the most common causes, explained clearly and professionally.

1. Broken or Worn Garage Door Springs (Most Common Cause)

Garage door springs do most of the heavy lifting. When a spring breaks or loses tension, the door can no longer move smoothly.

Signs this is the problem:

• The door lifts a few feet, then stops

• The door feels extremely heavy

• You hear a loud bang from the garage

• The opener struggles or shuts off automatically

In Indianapolis, temperature changes and regular use can shorten spring lifespan. Never try to replace springs yourself—they are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury.

2. Garage Door Opener Issues

Sometimes the problem is not the door itself, but the opener.

Common opener-related causes:

• Motor overheating

• Faulty circuit board

• Worn internal gears

• Incorrect force or travel limit settings

When the opener senses resistance, it may stop the door halfway to prevent damage. This is a built-in safety feature.

3. Misaligned or Bent Tracks

Garage doors rely on metal tracks to move smoothly. If these tracks become misaligned, bent, or loose, the door may jam halfway.

Causes of track problems:

• Vehicle impact

• Loose bolts or brackets

• Natural wear over time

If you notice gaps between the rollers and track or hear grinding noises, the tracks may be the issue.

4. Worn or Damaged Rollers

Rollers guide the garage door along the track. Over time, they can wear out, crack, or seize.

Symptoms include:

• Jerky or uneven movement

• Loud squeaking or grinding sounds

• Door stopping at the same point each time

Ignoring worn rollers can cause damage to tracks and the opener.

5. Broken or Frayed Cables

Lift cables work together with the springs to raise and lower the door evenly. When a cable snaps or frays, the door may lift unevenly and get stuck.

Warning signs:

• Door looks crooked

• One side lifts higher than the other

• Visible fraying near the drum

Cable issues are dangerous and should only be handled by professionals.

6. Obstructed or Dirty Tracks

Even small debris can stop a garage door mid-cycle.

Common obstructions:

• Dirt and buildup

• Small stones

• Tools or stored items

Regular cleaning and inspection can prevent this simple but frustrating problem.

7. Sensor or Safety System Problems

Modern garage doors use photo-eye sensors near the floor.

Sensor-related issues:

• Misalignment

• Dirt or spider webs

• Sunlight interference

• Faulty wiring

If sensors fail to communicate properly, the door may stop or reverse unexpectedly.

8. Limit Setting or Force Adjustment Issues

Garage door openers have programmed limits that control how far the door travels. Incorrect settings can cause the door to stop halfway.

This often happens after:

• Power outages

• DIY adjustments

• New opener installation

A professional can quickly recalibrate these settings.

Is It Safe to Use a Garage Door That’s Stuck Halfway?

No. Operating a malfunctioning garage door can:

• Cause the door to fall suddenly

• Damage the opener

• Lead to costly repairs

• Create serious safety hazards

It’s best to stop using the door and call a professional garage door technician immediately.

When to Call a Professional Garage Door Technician

You should contact a professional if:

• The door is heavy or unbalanced

• Springs or cables appear damaged

• The door makes loud or unusual noises

• The problem keeps happening

Professional technicians have the tools, training, and experience to diagnose the issue safely and fix it correctly the first time.

A garage door getting stuck halfway is usually a sign of a mechanical or safety-related issue. Addressing the problem early can prevent further damage and keep your home safe. Regular maintenance and professional inspections are the best ways to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

If you’re in Indianapolis, Indiana, working with a local garage door expert ensures faster service and solutions designed for local weather conditions.