If your LiftMaster garage door remote suddenly stops working, don’t panic. More often than not, the fix is as simple as swapping out the battery. At PDX Garage Door, we often receive this question from Portland homeowners who assume their opener is broken—when it’s actually just a dead remote battery. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about LiftMaster remote battery replacement—from identifying the right battery type to step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a hands-on DIYer or just need some quick, clear advice, you’re in the right place.

Why Your LiftMaster Remote Might Not Be Working

If your garage door remote isn’t responding, don’t immediately assume it’s something complicated. Here are the most common reasons:

• The battery is dead (most common)
• The battery is installed incorrectly
• Remote has lost programming or syncing
• There’s interference from other electronics
• The remote itself is damaged

Before calling in reinforcements, always try the simplest fix first: replace the battery.

How to Tell If the Battery Needs Replacing

Here’s how to spot the signs of a dying or dead LiftMaster remote battery:

• The remote works intermittently or only when you’re very close to the garage door
• The indicator light on the remote is dim or doesn’t turn on at all when you press a button
• You’ve had the same battery for over 12 months (LR44, CR2032, and 3V coin batteries usually last around 1–2 years)

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time for a new battery.

What Type of Battery Does My LiftMaster Remote Use?

LiftMaster remotes don’t all use the same battery, but the good news is that it’s pretty easy to figure out which one you need.

Here’s a Quick Guide to Popular LiftMaster Remote Models and Their Batteries:

Remote Model	Battery Type	Battery Quantity
371LM, 373LM	CR2032 (coin cell)	1 battery
890MAX, 893MAX	CR2032	1 battery
375UT Universal	CR2032	1 battery
893LM	CR2032	1 battery
940EV-P2 (Keypad)	9V	1 battery

Tip: Check the back of your remote. There’s usually a label that lists the model number. Once you find that, cross-reference it with the table above.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather these items:

• A small flathead screwdriver or coin (for prying open the remote)
• New battery (make sure it’s the correct type)
• A clean, dry workspace

Step-by-Step LiftMaster Remote Battery Replacement

Replacing your LiftMaster remote’s battery is quick and easy. Here’s exactly how to do it:

1. Open the Remote

• Look for a small notch or gap along the side of the remote.
• Insert a flathead screwdriver, coin, or even a house key into the notch.
• Gently twist to open the remote.

Be careful not to use too much force—LiftMaster remotes are sturdy but not unbreakable.

2. Remove the Old Battery

• Take note of how the current battery is positioned (positive and negative ends).
• Carefully pop out the old battery.

3. Insert the New Battery

• Place the new battery in the same orientation as the old one.
• Most coin batteries like CR2032 will have a “+” symbol on one side—this side usually faces up.

4. Snap the Remote Back Together

• Line up the two halves of the remote.
• Press them gently until they click into place.

5. Test the Remote

• Press a button to check the LED light.
• Walk up to your garage and try opening the door.

If the door operates normally and the light responds, you’re all set!

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget to Reprogram (If Needed)

In most cases, changing the battery won’t mess with your remote’s programming. But if the remote doesn’t work after replacing the battery, it could have lost its sync with the opener.

How to Reprogram a LiftMaster Remote:

1. Press the “Learn” button on your garage door opener motor unit (usually found near the light).
2. Within 30 seconds, press and hold the button on your remote you want to reprogram.
3. When the motor unit light blinks, release the button.

That’s it. The remote should now control the opener again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Replacing a battery seems simple, but we’ve seen folks run into issues. Watch out for these common mistakes:

• Using the wrong battery type – Always double-check your model number.
• Inserting the battery backward – This can prevent the remote from working and cause unnecessary confusion.
• Not fully snapping the remote shut – Loose casing can lead to poor internal connections.
• Discarding the remote too soon – Many people assume the remote is broken when a new battery is all it needs.

How Often Should You Replace the Battery?

Typically, your LiftMaster remote battery should last 1–2 years, depending on usage. If you find yourself replacing it more often, there might be an issue with the remote, or it may be time for a replacement. We suggest labeling the inside of the remote with the battery replacement date—that way, you always know how old it is.

When to Call a Garage Door Pro

There are times when a new battery won’t solve the problem. Call a professional (like our team at PDX Garage Door) if:

• Your LiftMaster remote is still unresponsive after reprogramming
• Your garage door opener isn’t responding to wall-mounted controls either
• You see flickering opener lights or hear strange motor sounds
• It’s been more than 10 years since your system was installed

Garage doors are heavy machinery. If there’s even a slight chance the issue is electrical or mechanical, it’s safest to let a pro troubleshoot it.

FAQs About LiftMaster Remote Battery Replacement

How do I open my LiftMaster remote if there’s no visible notch?

Some remotes open by pressing down on a tab or sliding the casing apart. If you’re unsure, try looking up your remote model on the LiftMaster website for instructions.

Can I use rechargeable batteries?

We don’t recommend it. Most LiftMaster remotes are designed for single-use lithium coin batteries, not rechargeables. Using the wrong type can affect performance.

My keypad isn’t working—does it use the same kind of battery?

LiftMaster keypads usually use a 9V battery, not the flat coin cells. They’re easy to swap out once you remove the front cover. Refer to the model number on the keypad for confirmation.

Garage Door Problems? We’ve Got Your Back

Replacing a LiftMaster remote battery is one of the easier garage door fixes out there—but it’s not the only thing that goes wrong. If you’re still having trouble, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

At PDX Garage Door, we help Portland homeowners and businesses with all things garage door—from minor fixes like new remotes and sensors to full system replacements.

Need help getting your garage door back in shape? Give us a call or drop by—our local techs are always happy to lend a hand.

Final Thoughts

Dead battery? No problem. Replacing the battery in your LiftMaster remote is a simple, five-minute fix you can do yourself. Just make sure you’re using the correct battery, follow the steps to swap it out, and test everything afterward.

And remember, if things still don’t work after the swap—or if you’re not sure what’s going on—PDX Garage Door is just a call away. We’re proud to serve the Portland area with fast, friendly, expert service.

Bookmark this guide, share it with a friend, or reach out if you need help—your garage door deserves it.