How to Change a Garage Door Remote Battery (UAE Guide + Avoid Lockouts)

If your garage door remote works inconsistently, only functions when you stand very close, or the LED light appears dim, the battery is most likely dead. In the UAE, extreme heat inside cars can drain or damage remote batteries much faster than in cooler climates.

Replacing a garage door remote battery is usually a 2-minute job. However, opening the casing incorrectly can snap the plastic—especially if it has become brittle from prolonged sun exposure.

Will you lose your programming?
In 99% of cases, no. Garage door remotes store their code on a permanent memory chip. Changing the battery will not erase the programming.

How to Change a Garage Door Remote Battery (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify Your Battery Type (Don’t Guess)

Most garage door remotes in the UAE use one of the following:

• Coin Cell Battery (3V)
  Common brands: Nice, BFT, Somfy, LiftMaster
  Models: CR2032, CR2025, CR2016
• Cylinder Battery (12V)
  Common in older remotes and generic clones
  Models: A23 or A27

Tip: Check the back of the casing for engraved text or buy both battery types to save time.

Step 2: Open the Remote Casing Safely

⚠️ Do not force it. Different brands use different casing designs.

• Snap-cover style: Insert a coin or flathead screwdriver into the side notch and twist gently.
• Screw style: Remove the small Phillips screw on the back before opening.
• Slide-out tray: Some Nice and Somfy remotes have a battery tray that slides out from the bottom.

Step 3: Replace the Battery

• Remove the old battery carefully.
• Use a non-metal object if it is stuck.
• Insert the new battery with correct polarity (+ / -).
• Wipe dusty or dirty contacts with a dry cloth.

Step 4: Test the Remote

Stand within normal range and press the button.

• ✅ LED lights up strong and door moves: Battery replacement successful.
• ❌ LED does not light up: Battery may be upside down or faulty.
• ⚠️ LED lights up but door doesn’t move: This is not a battery issue. At this point, the problem may be programming-related or caused by a faulty motor receiver.

Common “False” Battery Problems in the UAE

• Heat damage: Circuit board failure from being left in hot cars.
• Button failure: Sand and dust block the rubber contacts.
• Lock mode: Wall control lock disables all remotes.

When to Call a Garage Door Professional in Dubai

If a fresh battery didn’t fix the issue, do not buy a new remote yet. The problem may be with the motor, receiver, or electronics.

Stop DIY and call a technician if:

• The remote LED works but the door doesn’t respond
• Multiple remotes stop working
• The door opens intermittently