Autogate NW
5348 216th Ave SW
Centralia, WA 98531
(360) 349-6910


Home   Gates   Products   Services   Contact   Store   Manuals   Maintenance   Links   About   Service Areas   Account   Terms

Maintenance & Troubleshooting – FAQ

Common symptoms and what they usually mean. If you’re stuck, call—we’ll troubleshoot together.

Common symptoms

Gate opens but won’t close
  • Most common: photo eye blocked/misaligned, or safety edge triggered.
  • Also: binding gate makes obstruction detection trip.
Gate won’t open at all
  • No power / dead batteries.
  • Operator fault.
  • Access device not sending command.
Gate starts then reverses immediately
  • Safety input active.
  • Mechanical bind or debris.
  • Limit or wiring issue.
Gate works sometimes, then fails randomly
  • Intermittent wiring (water intrusion, loose connections).
  • Voltage drops or failing battery/charger.
  • Sensor alignment drifting.

Maintenance

What basic maintenance should I do?
  • Keep rollers/track/hinges clean and moving smoothly.
  • Grease hinges if possible.
  • Trim vegetation near sensors.
  • Listen for new noises - early warnings save money.
  • Clean photo-eye lenses and confirm alignment.
  • For slide gates, keep the chain greased to prevent corrosion.
  • Also with slide gates, keep the chain tightened so it does not drag on the ground.
  • Replace batteries in wireless keypads annually, and those in the operator about every five years.
How often should a gate system be serviced?

At least annually for most sites; more often for high-use or harsh environments.

Calling for help

What should I have ready when I call?
  • What it did, what it does now.
  • Error codes or flashing patterns.
  • Photos of operator/control box and sensors if possible.
Do you charge for phone help?

No—happy to help as best I can over the phone.