Up Arrow LED Off, Down Arrow LED Solid
LiftMaster Motor Overload or Shorted Motor Windings

LiftMaster opener unresponsive; DOWN arrow LED is solid ON and UP arrow LED is OFF.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Shorted motor, overheated motor thermal protector open, jammed gear and sprocket assembly, shorted motor capacitor

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the opener before inspection. Do not repeatedly try to run a stalled motor; it can overheat and cause damage.

  • Check door balance: Pull the emergency release and move the door by hand. If the door is very heavy or stuck, have the door hardware repaired before further opener testing.
  • Inspect gear and sprocket: Remove the opener cover. Check the main drive gear (usually white plastic) and sprocket. Look for melted plastic, missing teeth, or metal shavings that could jam the motor.
  • Allow motor to cool: If the opener was run repeatedly, allow 20–30 minutes for the motor thermal protector to reset, then test again.
  • Check motor capacitor: Inspect the motor start capacitor for bulging, leaking, or burnt smell. A failed capacitor can cause high current draw and overload.
  • Replace failed components: If the gear is damaged, install a LiftMaster gear and sprocket kit. If the motor hums and trips again, replace the motor capacitor or the motor assembly as required.

Warning: If you smell burning or see smoke, discontinue use and have a professional inspect the opener.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Motor Assembly
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