Programming an Old Genie Garage Door Opener

Quck answer

To program an old Genie garage door opener, follow these steps:

1. Locate the “Learn” or “Smart” button on the opener unit. It is usually on the back or side of the unit.

2. Press and release the “Learn” button. The indicator light on the opener should start blinking.

3. Within 30 seconds, press the button on the remote control that you want to program. The opener will beep or flash to confirm the programming.

4. Test the remote by pressing the programmed button. The garage door should open or close.

5. Repeat the process for any additional remotes.

Remember, these steps may vary slightly depending on the model of your Genie garage door opener. Always consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.


Older models of Genie garage door openers require the use of dip switches instead of a “smart” system to program the opener and remote controls. Unlike the Intellicode system, which can be programmed with a button press, the remotes and the door opener dip switches must be matched for the remotes to function properly. To program an old Genie door opener to the remote, you will need Genie’s GT912 remote control, which can be purchased at Sears or through Genie authorized dealers.

Step 1

Obtain the three-digit frequency number from your Genie door opener. This number is located on the rear of the motor. Purchase a GT912 remote control that uses the same frequency number as your opener.

Step 2

Position a stepladder beneath the rear of the Genie garage door opener motor head. Locate the dip switches on the back of the motor head. There will be a row of nine or twelve white dip switches in the upper right corner.

Step 3

Remove the battery cover from the GT916 remote control. Slide the cover off by pressing where the arrow is with your thumb. Find the mode switch on the right side of the remote control dip switches. Slide the mode switch to either 9 or 12, depending on the number of dip switches used by the Genie opener.

Step 4

Manually adjust each switch on the remote control to match the position of each switch on the door opener. Use your finger to slide each switch into the correct position. Replace the battery cover on the remote control and press the white button. If the Genie door opener does not operate, one or more of the dip switches are not set correctly. Remove the battery cover, review the dip switches, and correct any that are out of place.

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