Losing your garage door remote—or worse, having it stolen—can be a serious security risk for your home. A stolen remote means that a potential intruder may have easy access to your garage and, in many cases, your home. At Four Seasons Garage Doors, we understand how urgent this situation is, and we’re here to help you take immediate action to protect your property and loved ones. Here’s what you should do if your garage door remote gets stolen.
1. Disable the Stolen Remote Immediately
Most modern garage door openers allow you to reset or erase all programmed remotes to prevent unauthorized access. Follow these steps:
- Locate the “Learn” or “Program” button on your garage door opener unit (usually found on the back or side of the motor).
- Press and hold the button until the indicator light turns off. This clears all connected remotes from the system.
- Reprogram any remaining remotes or keypads following the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you need help resetting your opener, call Four Seasons Garage Doors at 630-449-4600, and we can assist you in securing your system.
2. Lock Your Garage Door Manually
Until your remote system is secure, take immediate action to physically lock your garage door:
- Use a manual slide lock (if installed) to prevent the door from being lifted from the outside.
- Place a padlock through one of the side tracks to block movement.
- If your garage has a door leading into your home, secure it with a deadbolt to prevent intruders from gaining access.
3. Reset or Upgrade Your Keypad Code
If you use a keypad to open your garage door, change the code as soon as possible. Many keypads are linked to the same system as your remote, so updating your access code ensures that your garage remains secure.
4. Check Security Cameras & Notify Neighbors
If you have home security cameras, review footage to see if someone took the remote from your car or property. You should also:
- Notify your neighbors about the stolen remote so they can be on alert.
- Consider installing a smart garage door opener that notifies you when the door is opened.
- If you believe your remote was stolen as part of a larger theft, report it to the local police.
5. Consider Upgrading to a Smart Garage Door Opener
A smart garage door opener allows you to control and monitor your garage door from your smartphone, eliminating the need for a traditional remote. Features include:
- Real-time alerts when your garage door opens or closes.
- Remote access to open or close the door from anywhere.
- Temporary access codes for visitors instead of physical remotes.
If you’re interested in upgrading, Four Seasons Garage Doors offers professional installation of the latest smart openers. Call 630-449-4600 to learn more.
6. Prevent Future Garage Remote Theft
To avoid this situation in the future, follow these safety tips:
- Never leave your remote in your car, especially if parked outside.
- Use a keychain remote instead of a visor-mounted one.
- Invest in a garage door opener with rolling code technology that changes the access code every time you use it.
- Keep garage access limited—only give remotes to trusted family members.
Final Thoughts: Take Action to Stay Secure
A stolen garage door remote is a major security concern, but taking quick action can prevent unauthorized entry and keep your home safe. By resetting your system, securing your door, and considering smart technology upgrades, you can regain peace of mind.
At Four Seasons Garage Doors, we specialize in garage door repairs, installations, and security upgrades in Illinois. If you need assistance reprogramming your remote, installing a new opener, or upgrading to a smart system, call 630-449-4600 today!
