How to Replace a Garage Door Opener Wall Button

a Garage Door Opener Wall Button
  • 2-4 hours
  • Beginner
  • 50-100
What You'll Need
Screws
Insulating tape
Wall controller button
Phillips-head screwdriver and small flat-head screwdriver
What You'll Need
Screws
Insulating tape
Wall controller button
Phillips-head screwdriver and small flat-head screwdriver

It may be necessary to replace the wall button used to open your garage door if it stops working. Finding a solution to the problem is rather immediate unless you have another place to park your car, which is usually not the case. Fixing the wall button is not difficult and this little guide will show you how to replace it.

Step 1 - Buy a New Button

Buy one that is the same make and model, or one that looks like the one you have at home. Try to find one that uses the same screws to avoid having to use the electric drill to make more holes in your wall. If you can’t find one exactly like your current model anywhere at least buy one that has similar dimensions of width and height.

Step 2 - Cut the Power Supply to the Main Switch

The necessity to replace the wall button quickly can make you forget this simple step and the consequences can be anything from a short circuit to being the victim of a strong electric shock. If you don’t want to electrocute yourself turn off the electrical main switch before doing anything.

Step 3 - Remove the Screws

Depending on the model of your button you will likely need to use a Phillips-head screwdriver or small flat-head screwdriver to remove the screws holding the defective button on the wall. Be careful not to lose the screws because some new buttons do not come with screws. Once you have removed the old button, save the screws in the pocket of your tool belt, if you have one, or the pocket of your pants in order to have free hands.

Step 4 - Disconnect the Wall Control Wires from the Electrical Wiring

This step is probably the one where you need to be most careful. First, split and strip the ends of the wire with caution. Then throw out the ones that belong to the older wall control button and the wall control itself.

Step 5 - Connect the Wire to the New Button

The last step needs more attention than the others because if you make a mistake your car will still be parked on the street. Fasten the wire of the new wall control button to the wall control board screws on the back of wall control following these guidelines: white wire to the + (plus) terminal and white striped wire to the - (minus) terminal. Remember that you must use insulating tape to join the wire.

Step 6 - Attach the New Button of the Wall Control

Again, depending on the model of your new wall button use a Phillips-head screwdriver or small flat-head screwdriver to attach the new button to the wall. Secure it as firmly as you can. Clean the area, and then you’ll be ready.

Step 7 - Restore Power By Turning on the Main Switch

The time to test the new button has arrived, but before pressing the button and thinking that it doesn’t work remember that you turned off the electrical system. Turn it on again. Job well done.