The days of carrying around a clunky remote for your garage are over. Modern cars have the technology to be directly programmed to your garage door, but setting up the initial connection can sometimes be complicated. If you’re having trouble getting the two to connect, enlist the help of a friend and follow the steps below.

How to Establish a Connection Between Cars & Garage Doors

1. Clear Past Programming

If your car has any prior garage door programming, you will need to clear out those codes before trying to connect to your new opener. For many vehicles, there are three home link buttons on the console or rearview mirror. Press down buttons one and three at the same time for about 20 seconds. The LED light next to them should blink, which confirms you’ve cleared out your programming.

2. Use a Simultaneous Button Push

Many systems will require that you push the buttons in the car and on the garage door opener at the same time, so you’ll need someone to help you. Find the logic board on the back of your garage door opener, and push the LEARN or SMART button. This is usually a bright yellow, purple, or red. Hold it down, and have your helper push down the link button on your car’s console or rearview mirror. You should hear a click or see a light blink on your opener when the programming is set.

3. Check for Power

If you’re still having trouble establishing the connection, check that both systems have power to them. Your car’s electronic system should be on, so you should be able to turn on the radio and lights. Next, check that your garage door opener has power to it by manually pressing the door open and close button. You may need to charge batteries or flip the breaker to the area if it isn’t powered.

If you’re still having difficulty programming your car to the garage, reach out to the professionals. Garage Door Service: Paul Holscher, Mike Parano has been working with garage doors for almost 40 years throughout the Cincinnati, OH, area. This fully licensed and insured business offers garage door installation and maintenance, and has earned an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® for their dedication to customer satisfaction. Learn more online and call (513) 347-3000 to request a quote.