Your garage door opener uses a flashing light pattern to communicate specific problems. Count the blinks carefully—the pattern repeats after a pause. For a complete list of all 12 reasons a garage door won't close, see our main troubleshooting guide.

Blinks Problem Typical Fix
10× Safety sensor misalignment or obstruction Realign sensors, clean lenses
4-5× Sensor wiring problem Check wire connections
1-2× Motor overload or gear issue Wait 15 min, check balance
6× Motor travel limits need adjustment Adjust down-force setting
Continuous Logic board failure or major issue Call professional

Checking Your Safety Sensors

Safety sensors (photo eyes) are mounted 4-6 inches off the ground on either side of the door opening. They use an invisible beam to detect obstructions. When the beam is blocked or sensors are misaligned, the door won't close.

Sensor LED Status Guide

Sending
Should be solid
Receiving
Solid = aligned

If receiving LED blinks or is off, sensors are misaligned or obstructed.

How to Align Sensors

  1. Loosen the wing nut or screw holding the blinking sensor
  2. Gently adjust the sensor angle until both LEDs glow solid
  3. Tighten the mounting hardware while maintaining alignment
  4. Test by pressing the wall button—door should close smoothly

Quick Fixes to Try

Clean the Sensor Lenses Easy

Dust, cobwebs, and dirt on the sensor lenses can block the beam. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe both sensor lenses. This fixes about 30% of sensor issues.

Remove Obstructions Easy

Check for objects blocking the beam path: boxes, tools, garbage cans, even leaves or cobwebs. The beam path runs at about 4-6 inches off the ground between sensors.

Check Wiring Connections Medium

Inspect the wires running from each sensor to the opener. Look for damaged wires, loose connections at terminals, or wires pulled from the sensor. Tighten any loose connections.

Shield from Sunlight Medium

Direct sunlight can overwhelm the receiving sensor, causing false "obstruction" readings. If this happens only on sunny afternoons, install a small shade above the sensor or slightly reposition it.

The Wall Button Test

Quick Diagnostic: If holding the wall button continuously makes the door close completely, the sensors are definitely the problem. The wall button overrides safety sensors (a safety feature allowing manual close when needed).

This confirms the opener motor and door mechanics are working—only the sensor system is failing. Try the sensor fixes above. If sensors appear properly aligned and clean but still don't work, they may need replacement ($120-180 for parts and labor).

When to Call a Professional

  • Sensors are aligned and clean but LED still blinks
  • Wiring appears damaged or frayed
  • Opener light blinks continuously without pattern
  • Door reverses violently after starting to close
  • You hear grinding, clicking, or unusual noises
  • Wall button doesn't override the problem
Safety Note: Never disconnect or bypass safety sensors permanently. They're federally mandated to prevent injuries. If sensors are malfunctioning, have them repaired or replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my garage door light blink 10 times?
10 blinks typically indicates a safety sensor issue. Check that sensors are aligned (LEDs should be solid, not blinking), clean the sensor lenses, and verify wiring connections. If one sensor LED is blinking while the other is solid, they're misaligned.
How do I know if my garage door sensors are bad?
Signs of bad sensors include: one or both sensor LEDs blinking, door reverses immediately after starting to close, door only closes when holding the wall button, or visible damage to sensors. Test by checking LED indicators—both should glow steady when properly aligned.
Can I bypass garage door sensors?
While you can temporarily close the door by holding the wall button continuously, you should never permanently bypass or disconnect safety sensors. They're required by law to prevent injuries. If sensors fail, have them repaired.
How much does it cost to fix garage door sensors?
In Toronto, sensor repair typically costs $120-180 including parts and labor. This covers sensor alignment, wire repair, or sensor replacement. Some repairs (cleaning, basic alignment) can be DIY.

Still Having Sensor Problems?

We diagnose and repair garage door sensors same-day across Toronto & GTA. Book online.

437-265-9995

Sensor repair: $120-180 | Full pricing