Electric gates are built to last, but like anything mechanical, they don’t run forever without some attention. The trick is catching problems early — before a minor issue turns into a gate that won’t open at all, usually at the worst possible moment.
Here are five signs your electric gate needs a repair, and what each one probably means.
1. The Gate Is Moving Slower Than Usual
If your gate suddenly takes longer to open or close, don’t ignore it. Slow operation usually points to one of three things: the motor is starting to wear, the hinges or track need lubrication, or there’s a power supply issue. None of these fix themselves, and a struggling motor eventually burns out completely if left alone.
What to do: If greasing the hinges doesn’t speed things up, call an engineer. A motor replacement cost now is far less than a full system failure later.
2. Strange Noises — Grinding, Squealing, or Clicking
A healthy gate should run quietly. Grinding sounds typically mean the gearbox or drive mechanism is worn. Squealing often points to belt tension problems or dry bearings. Rapid clicking can indicate a failing capacitor or control board relay.
Any new noise is a warning. The longer you run it, the more damage accumulates.
What to do: Stop using the gate and get it inspected. Running it with a damaged gearbox can destroy the motor too.
3. The Gate Stops Mid-Way or Reverses Unexpectedly
This is nearly always a safety sensor issue. Electric gates are fitted with photocells and safety edges that detect obstructions. If a sensor is misaligned, dirty, or faulty, the gate thinks something is in the way and stops or reverses.
It could also be a limit switch problem — the switch that tells the gate when it’s fully open or closed has slipped out of position.
What to do: Check for obvious obstructions and clean the photocell lenses. If it keeps happening, you need an engineer to recalibrate the limits or replace a faulty sensor.
4. One Gate Leaf Isn’t Working
On a pair of swing gates, if one side opens and the other doesn’t, there’s likely a motor or wiring fault on the dead side. With sliding gates, partial movement often indicates a track obstruction or a drive gear that’s stripped its teeth.
Don’t force the gate manually — you can damage the automation further.
What to do: Switch the system off at the mains and call for a repair. The engineer will test each motor independently and trace the fault.
5. The Remote Control Has Stopped Working
Before you assume the worst, try the obvious: change the battery in your remote. If that doesn’t work, test a spare remote if you have one. If no remotes work at all, the receiver board in the control panel may have failed, or there’s a power issue.
If only one remote has stopped working, it may have lost its programming and needs re-pairing with the control board.
What to do: Try a fresh battery first. If that doesn’t help, call an engineer — control board faults need proper diagnosis and aren’t a DIY fix.
When to Call for Emergency Repair
Some situations can’t wait. Call for emergency repair if:
- Your gate is stuck open and won’t close — your property is unsecured
- Your gate is stuck closed and you can’t get your vehicle in or out
- You see or smell smoke from the control panel
- The gate has come off its track or a leaf is hanging loose
At Automated Gate Services Ltd, we offer emergency call-out for gate repairs across Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk. If you’re stuck, call us on 01473 375112.
Prevention Is Cheaper Than Repair
Most of these problems can be caught early with an annual service. A routine maintenance visit covers lubrication, safety device testing, motor inspection, and adjustments. It costs a fraction of what a major repair or replacement does.
If it’s been more than a year since your gate was last looked at, get in touch to book a service. A small investment now can save you a big bill later.