Categories: Garages

Install A Remote Keypad Garage Door Opener

Remote Keypad Garage Door Opener

Installing a remote keypad for your garage door opener is an easy DIY project. I installed the Liftmaster 976LM Security+ Garage Door Opener Keypad for our garage doors and it was a very easy do-it-yourself project.

Liftmaster Keypads

The first thing you need to do is figure out which model Liftmaster Keypad you’ll need based on the type of door opener motor you have. Liftmaster garage door openers have a colored “Learn” button on the back of the unit with all of the control settings. The color of the button determines the type of remote keypad your opener requires.

  • Purple Learn Button = Security Plus (with ERT)
  • Orange Learn Button = Security Plus (no ERT)
  • Green Learn Button = Rolling Code

Once you’ve identified the type of Liftmaster garage door opener you have it’s easy to pick up the correct remote keypad. The following is a list of the correct remote keypads for your garage door opener.

Setting The Keypad Passcode

Once you’ve purchased the remote keypad you’ll need to program it to open your garage door. This needs to be done BEFORE you install the keypad on the house. The steps are very easy.

  1. Press and release the “Learn Button” on the motor unit. The learn indicator light will glow steady for 30 seconds.
  2. Within 30 seconds, enter a four (4) digit identification number (PIN) of your choice on the keypad. Then press and HOLD the ENTER key on the keypad. (It’s best if you do this task on a step ladder near the garage door opener)
  3. Release the ENTER button when the garage door motor unit lights blink. Once the lights blink the code has been set. (If you don’t have lights installed in the opener you’ll know the code is set if you hear two clicks on the motor unit).

Installing the Remote Keypad Garage Door Opener

Once you’ve set the PIN number on your new remote keypad all you need to do is install it in a convenient place outside the garage. If you have a sectional garage door (most typical) then the best place to install the remote keypad is on the inside of the garage door jamb (see picture above).

Installing the keypad is very easy. First install a screw approximately 5 feet above ground level. The screw should be installed so that the head is slightly away from the finish surface (1/8 inch). Hang the remote keypad on that screw and slide it downward to lock. Next, open the battery compartment and install a screw with a screw gun. The 2nd screw helps lock the unit in place.

So for under $25 you can have a remote keypad outside your garage to open the doors with. It’s great when you’re going for a walk, bike ride or doing yardwork.

Todd Fratzel

I'm full time builder for a large construction company in New Hampshire. I run their design-build division that specializes in custom homes, commercial design-build projects and sub-divisions. I'm also a licensed civil and structural engineer with extensive experience in civil and structural design and home construction. My hope is that I can share my experience in the home construction, home improvement and home renovation profession with other builders and home owners. I'm also the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, suggestions or you'd like to inquire about advertising on this site.

View Comments

  • how to install my remote outside in cinder blocks--what do I use in the cinder block to put the screw in ???

  • Any idea what to do if my keypad has no enter button? I don't see any indication of a model # on the keypad and have searched the internet on what to do if there is no enter button, to no avail...

  • Hi, I have a model that looks just like this that stopped working and we want to replace it. So this is wireless? I've been thinking it is hardwired for some reason and have been hesitant to mess around with the wires. If it is wireless then I'm OK.

  • I purchased a second one of these to install inside the garage for easier access. It has over-written the exterior one making it not respond any longer. Is it possible to make 2 of these work?

  • I cant find a answer bout the car remotes when installing the keypad does anything need to be done with them will they still work after adding key pad

  • mine has places to attach positive and negaative 12V leads. touching 12v causes buzzing and wisp of smoke. too much amps?

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Todd Fratzel

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