Can I Adjust My Electric Garage Door for a Larger Vehicle?

If you've recently purchased a larger vehicle—like an SUV, truck, or van—you may have discovered that your current garage door opening is too small for a smooth fit. It’s a common issue for homeowners, especially as vehicle sizes continue to increase. This raises the question: Can you adjust your electric garage door to accommodate a larger vehicle? The short answer is yes, but the process depends on what kind of adjustment you’re referring to—whether it’s the opening height, width, or mechanical settings. In this article, we’ll break down the different ways you can adjust or upgrade your garage door to make space for a bigger vehicle.

Understanding the Limitations of Your Current Garage Door

Before making any adjustments, it's important to assess the current dimensions of your garage door. Standard single garage doors are typically 7 feet high and 8 to 9 feet wide. However, many newer vehicles—especially lifted trucks or tall SUVs—require more clearance height or width than standard doors allow.

It's also essential to check the available space above and beside the garage door opening. Even if you can physically widen or raise the opening, structural elements like beams, low ceilings, or nearby walls might limit your options. Additionally, electric garage door openers are typically set to a certain travel limit, which can be adjusted in some cases but not all.

Adjusting the Garage Door Opener Settings

If your garage door opener stops before the door is fully open, it might not be using its full range of motion. In this case, you can try adjusting the travel limits or open force settings on your opener. Most modern electric garage door openers come with adjustable settings either through dials, buttons, or smart apps.

• Locate the limit adjustment screws or buttons on your opener.
  
  
• Increase the up limit slightly and test the door's travel.
  
  
• Be cautious not to set the door to hit the ceiling or damage the tracks.
  
  

This small adjustment may give you a few extra inches in clearance, which could be enough for your larger vehicle to fit without any major renovations.

Increasing the Garage Door Height or Width

If adjusting the opener doesn't solve the issue, the next option involves structural changes. Widening or raising your garage door opening requires construction work, but it’s entirely possible. Here’s how:

1. Raising the Garage Door Opening

To raise the height of your garage door:

• The existing header (support beam above the door) needs to be moved upward.
  
  
• You may need a new taller door and longer vertical tracks.
  
  
• The garage door opener may also need repositioning or replacement with a high-lift or jackshaft opener for added clearance.
  
  

Keep in mind, raising the opening is only possible if your garage ceiling allows for extra vertical space.

2. Widening the Garage Door

To widen the opening:

• The side walls may need to be modified or partially removed.
  
  
• A new wider door and track system will be required.
  
  
• Support beams may need to be replaced or reinforced to accommodate the new span.
  
  

Both processes will require help from a licensed contractor and may need city permits depending on local regulations.

Replacing the Garage Door

If you’re making structural changes, you’ll also need a new garage door to match the updated dimensions. Fortunately, garage doors come in a variety of heights and widths, including:

• 8, 9, 10, 12, and even 16 feet wide
  
  
• 8 feet high or higher for RVs and lifted vehicles
  
  

Make sure to choose a door with enough clearance and compatible features, such as insulation, material strength, and an opener designed for heavier or taller doors.

Upgrading the Garage Door Opener

If you’re installing a taller door or one with a higher lift, you might need a more powerful opener. Consider these options:

• Jackshaft openers mount on the wall and save ceiling space.
  
  
• Belt-drive or chain-drive models with high horsepower for heavier doors.
  
  
• Smart openers that offer remote access and travel limits via an app.
  
  

Make sure the opener is compatible with your door size and offers adjustable settings for safety and smooth operation.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting your electric garage door to accommodate a larger vehicle is definitely possible. If the issue is just travel limits, a simple adjustment to your garage door opener may solve the problem. However, if the opening itself is too small, structural changes and a door replacement might be necessary. While some tasks can be done yourself, major changes should always be handled by professionals to ensure safety and compliance with building codes.

Before starting any project, assess your current garage layout, measure your vehicle, and consult with a garage door expert or contractor. With the right approach, you can successfully modify your garage door to fit your larger vehicle and enjoy a hassle-free parking experience.