Opener hums briefly but door does not move; E5 displayed or LED flashes 5 times

Safety first: Unplug the Skylink opener before opening the housing. Capacitors can hold a charge; avoid touching terminals directly.

• Check door movement: Pull the emergency release and move the door by hand. If it is difficult to move, call a garage door professional to service springs and hardware before working on the opener.
• Inspect for jams: Look along the rail for bent sections, obstructions, or a jammed trolley. Clear any obstruction and ensure the trolley moves freely.
• Test motor without load: With the door disconnected, plug in the opener and try to run it. If the motor still only hums and stops, suspect the start capacitor or motor.
• Check capacitor: Disconnect power. Locate the motor start capacitor (usually a cylindrical component mounted near the motor). Inspect for bulging, cracks, or leakage. Replace with an identical Skylink motor start capacitor if damaged.
• When to replace motor: If a new capacitor does not restore operation and the motor shaft is free to turn by hand, the motor windings may be open or shorted. Replace the Skylink opener motor assembly or complete Skylink opener head.