Common Reasons Why Your Garage Door Keypad is Not Working

Garage door keypads are one of those things we don’t think about until we're standing outside, punching in our code like it's a secret mission - and nothing happens. Cue the frustration.

At Moses Garage Doors in Houston, we hear this all the time: "My garage door keypad stopped working!" Don’t worry, you're not alone. Garage door keypads are reliable for the most part, but like all tech, they can fail. Let’s break down the most common reasons your keypad might be acting up, and what you can do about it (before you throw it across the driveway).

1. Dead or Weak Batteries

Yes, we’re starting with the obvious, but you'd be surprised how often this is the culprit.

Symptoms:

• Keypad doesn't light up

• No response when you enter the code

Fix: Pop open the keypad, usually from the bottom or back, and replace the batteries. Most keypads use a standard 9V battery. Replace it and test again. If this fixes the issue, congratulations - you just saved yourself a service call!

Pro tip: Don’t wait until the battery dies completely. Set a reminder to change it annually.

2. Worn-Out Keypad Buttons

If you have to press your code in with the force of a toddler pounding mashed potatoes, it’s time to investigate button wear.

Symptoms:

• Certain numbers don’t register

• You need to press very hard to get a response

Fix: Sometimes, cleaning the keypad can help. Use a soft cloth and some gentle cleaner (never water directly!). But if the buttons are physically damaged or worn through, it's probably time to replace the unit. Good news: they're usually affordable and easy to install.

3. Reprogramming Issues

Sometimes your keypad simply forgets who it is. (Hey, don’t we all?)

Symptoms:

• Code suddenly stops working

• Nothing happens even though you changed the battery

Fix: Check your keypad model and follow the instructions to reprogram it. You may need to access your garage door opener unit and press the "Learn" button. Then enter your new code within 30 seconds.

Note: If you don't have the manual, check the manufacturer’s website. Or just give Moses Garage Doors a call - we’ve seen every make and model out there.

4. Interference or Signal Blockage

Just like with your Wi-Fi, interference can mess with your keypad’s signal.

Symptoms:

• Inconsistent opening/closing

• Works sometimes, not others

Fix: Make sure nothing is obstructing the signal between the keypad and the opener. Metal siding, LED lights, or nearby electronics can interfere. Try moving these items or upgrading to a newer keypad with stronger frequency capability.

5. Damaged Wiring or Internal Electronics

Keypads live outside, which means they deal with Houston heat, rain, and humidity. Over time, the internal components can corrode or break.

Symptoms:

• No lights or beeping

• Doesn’t respond even with new batteries and reprogramming

Fix: If it's not responding at all, internal circuitry may be fried. Unfortunately, this isn’t a DIY fix. Time to call in the pros (that’s us - Moses Garage Doors).

6. Garage Door Opener Is the Real Problem

Your keypad might be totally fine, but the opener is having a meltdown.

Symptoms:

• Keypad, remote, and wall unit all fail to open the door

Fix: Check if the opener is plugged in and the breaker hasn’t tripped. If it's humming but not moving, the motor or gears may be the issue. Again, best handled by a professional.

7. Old Age (It Happens to the Best of Us)

Garage door keypads generally last 10-15 years. If yours is a relic from the Bush administration, it might just be time for an upgrade.

Fix: There are modern keypads with better range, backlit buttons, and even smartphone integration. We can help you choose and install the right one.

When to Call Moses Garage Doors?

If you've tried replacing batteries, reprogramming, cleaning, and cursing at it - and nothing works, it's time to call the professionals.

At Moses Garage Doors, we offer:

• Keypad repairs & replacements

• Garage door opener diagnostics

• Fast, friendly service across Houston

We're a locally owned company with over a decade of experience helping homeowners just like you. We know garage doors (and their keypads) like the back of our wrench.

Final Thoughts

A non-working garage door keypad can be frustrating, but often, the fix is simpler than you think. From dead batteries to programming issues, most problems are DIY-friendly. But when it gets complicated, Moses Garage Doors is here to help.

Don’t let a busted keypad keep you locked out - give us a call today at (832) 295-8875 and we’ll get you back in action.