You want to change the code on your garage door opener, but…
You don’t know how.
Well, it’s your lucky day!
Changing the code on a garage door opener is simple.
But it can be confusing to new users.
This post will guide you on its step-by-step process.
So, make sure to read the instructions and reminders below thoroughly.
Read on to learn:
- Tips on creating a new code combination.
- 7 steps to change code on a garage door opener.
- Whether it’s possible to change code without the existing PIN.
- And so much more…
How to change code on garage door opener: 7 steps
#1: Make sure that the garage door is open
Before you begin, make sure that the garage door is open.
Meaning, the garage door should be folded or lifted up.
Doing this step is important to avoid getting the garage door permanently locked. In case an error occurred during the process.
Note: Suppose the garage door malfunctioned. You’d need to factory reset your garage door opener. And that would delete all data stored on it.
You’d need to perform a test process later as well.
So, doing this in advance is convenient and time-saving.
Check out: 8 Steps To Reset A Kwikset Smart Lock (How-To Guide)
#2: Remove any obstructions
Next, clear the garage door of any obstructions.
So, when you perform the test process later, nothing will cause the door to get stuck.
Here are some possible obstructions that you should remove:
- Objects leaning on the garage door tracks.
- Objects lying directly below the garage door.
- Anything that blocks the garage door sensors.
- Wires tangling on the garage door tracks and cable drums.
Once done cleaning, go in front of your garage door opener keypad.
#3: Enter the existing PIN code
For the 3rd step, enter your existing garage door PIN code.
Note: This is where the process of changing the code officially begins.
Read also: Are Smart Locks Worth It? 5 Things You Need To Know
When entering the existing PIN code, make sure to:
- Enter the code quickly.*
- Press the buttons firmly.
- Press each button only once.
- Input the correct PIN combination.
Most garage door opener keypads produce a “beep” when you press any button.
While on other keypads, the buttons light up.
So, make sure you hear the keypad beep or light up when entering the PIN. This indicates that the keypad recognizes your input.
*The keypad locks out after 5 seconds of inactivity. So, make sure to enter the code quickly.
“But I don’t remember my old garage door PIN code…”
If that’s the case, then you should immediately stop the process.
As this process only works using the existing PIN code.
If you don’t remember your old PIN, factory reset your garage door opener.
Doing this will delete all data stored on it, So, you’d be able to program a new code instantly.
#4: Press the pound (#) button
Right after entering your existing PIN, press the pound button.
It’s usually located at the lower-right of the keypad. And has a “#” icon on it.
Depending on the garage door keypad you use, it will show some indicators, such as:
- Lights blinking twice.
- Keypad beeping once or more.
So, make sure to pay attention to any of that.
Or best, review your garage door opener user’s manual to check which indicator sign you should look for.
Also, on some models, you should not only press the pound button. But also hold it for a few seconds until any indicator shows up.
#5: Enter the new PIN code
Next, enter the new PIN code you want to use.
Most garage door openers work with a 4-digit code. So, make sure to only input 4 digits.
Tip: Have your new code written on a paper sheet or your phone. As to avoid keypad lockout due to inactivity.
Here are some tips and reminders when creating a PIN code:
- Avoid repeating the same number more than twice.
- Avoid using birth dates or any dates that relate to you.
- Mix up the numbers when creating several PIN codes.
- Make sure that the first 2 digits on each code are unique.
Using the same number twice in a code makes it easy to guess.
Plus, it will also wear out the buttons immediately. Which can cause further problems with your garage door keypad.
If you’re having a hard time creating a code combination, use a random code generator.
#6: Press the “Enter” button
The next step is to press the “Enter” button on the keypad.
It’s located at the lower bottom of the keypad. Directly on the left of the pound (#) button.
Make sure to only press it once. As holding or pressing it too many times can cause the process to fail.
If that happens, you’d need to repeat the process from the start.
Different keypad models show different indicator signs of a successful process.
On some models, the keypad will produce 1 long beep.
While on others, the LED light on the keypad will light up.
Again, to ensure that the process is completed, refer to your user’s manual.
Note: This ends the process of changing a code on a garage door opener.
Need more help in changing the code on your garage door opener? Then, watch this short instructional video:
#7: Perform the test process
This step is optional.
But it’s advisable that you do this to double-check whether the process is successful.
To perform the test process, first, keep the garage door open.
Then, enter your newly-programmed PIN code.
If the garage door closes, then the process is successful.
Congratulations! You’ve just changed your PIN code without any sweat.
If the garage door remains open, meaning the process has failed.
And you’d need to repeat steps #3 to #6 again.
Many things can cause the process to fail. And the most common reasons are:
- Skipping a step or a button.
- Not pressing the buttons properly.
- Pressing the buttons too many times than instructed.
So, when you repeat the process, make sure to do it correctly and properly.
Follow the instructions strictly.
And avoid 5 seconds of inactivity to prevent the process from failing.
You may also like: How do you open a Kwikset lock with a dead battery?