If your automatic door won't open or won't close, the cause is almost always one of five things: a failed sensor, a motor fault, a power issue, a damaged door track, or a controller board error. KDL Locksmith has been diagnosing and repairing automatic doors across Toronto and the GTA for 38 years. We service all major brands — Dormakaba, Horton, Tormax, Besam, Micom, Ditec, Rhinotek, and Hunter — and offer same-day service for commercial door failures.

The 5 Most Common Reasons an Automatic Door Stops Working

1. The Sensor Isn't Detecting Motion

The most common cause. Automatic door sensors can be knocked out of alignment, covered in dust or dirt, or simply fail over time. If the door doesn't react when someone approaches, the motion sensor or safety beam is the first thing to check. Signs: door doesn't open at all, or opens inconsistently depending on where you stand.

2. The Motor or Drive Belt Has Failed

If you can hear the door trying to operate but it won't move, or if it moves very slowly and stops, the motor or drive belt may be worn out or seized. Signs: grinding noise, door starts to open then stops, door won't move at all despite power being on.

3. A Power or Wiring Issue

Automatic door operators run on dedicated power circuits. A tripped breaker, a blown fuse, or a loose wiring connection can shut the entire system down. Signs: no sound, no movement, no indicator lights on the control panel.

4. The Controller Board Has an Error

Most modern automatic door operators have a digital controller board. If the board detects a fault it will lock the door and display an error code. Signs: beeping, flashing lights, door stuck open or stuck closed.

5. A Mechanical Obstruction or Track Problem

For sliding doors, a damaged track, worn rollers, or a physical obstruction can prevent the door from moving. Signs: door moves partially then stops, scraping noise, door visibly off-track.

What To Do Before You Call

Try these steps first — they resolve about 20% of automatic door faults without a technician:

• Check the power: confirm the breaker for the door operator hasn't tripped
• Check for obstructions in the door track or sensor beam
• Look for error codes on the control panel — note it down before calling
• Try a manual reset: press and hold the reset button for 5 seconds
• Check the push button: if the door opens with the button but not the sensor, the sensor is the fault

If none of these work, call us at 416-303-0255. We'll often narrow down the fault over the phone before sending a technician.

Brands We Repair

• Dormakaba (ED series, BTS series, Kaba Gilgen)
• Horton (Series 4000, 8000, Comfort)
• Tormax (iMotion, SLIMDRIVE)
• Besam (SL500, UniSlide, UNI-Auto)
• Micom
• Ditec (GOL series, COMS)
• Rhinotek
• Hunter

Frequently Asked Questions

My automatic door won't open — what's the most likely cause?

The most common cause is a sensor fault. If the door won't react to people approaching, the motion sensor or safety beam is usually misaligned or failed. The second most common cause is a controller board error, which will show as a flashing light or error code on the operator panel.

My automatic door won't close — what's wrong?

A door that opens but won't close is almost always a safety sensor issue. The safety beam at floor level may be broken or blocked. If clear, the sensor itself may need replacement.

How much does it cost to fix an automatic door that won't open?

Sensor recalibration or replacement typically costs $150–$350. Motor or drive belt replacement is $300–$700. Controller board replacement is $400–$900 depending on the brand. We quote before starting any work.

Can you come today?

Same-day service is available for commercial automatic door repairs across Toronto and the GTA. Call 416-303-0255.