Can you get a universal remote for an old garage door opener?
Yes. For an older Craftsman garage door opener like model 13953310, you can usually use a universal remote as long as it supports your opener’s radio frequency and security type (fixed-code DIP switches vs. rolling-code). If it does not, adding a universal external receiver is the reliable workaround.
How to tell what will work with your opener
Check the opener’s motor head (or the original remote if you still have it) for clues before you buy:
- Learn button present (often colored): typically indicates rolling-code compatibility
- No learn button and DIP switches: typically indicates fixed-code compatibility
- Remote frequency (commonly 300-400 MHz on many older units): must match the remote/receiver
- Number of buttons you need (1, 2, or 3 doors)
- Wall control works but remotes do not: points to remote programming, receiver, or interference
Best options (from simplest to most universal)
| Option | When it’s best | What you’ll do |
|---|---|---|
| Universal remote | Opener is supported by the remote’s brand list | Program it to the opener (learn button or DIP switches) |
| Universal remote + external receiver kit | Opener is too old or incompatible | Wire receiver to opener terminals, then program new remotes |
| Replace only the remote(s) with compatible type | You know the exact remote type/frequency | Match the remote style and program it |
Programming and setup tips that prevent most failures
- Put in a fresh battery before programming.
- Program with the vehicle outside the garage to avoid accidental movement.
- If using a learn button, press it briefly, then program the remote within the time window.
- If using DIP switches, match the switch pattern exactly.
- If range is poor, check for LED bulbs in the opener light sockets; some cause RF interference.
Why it matters
Using the correct remote type keeps your opener secure and reliable. A mismatched remote can look like a “dead opener,” while an external receiver lets you modernize control without replacing the entire motor unit.
For step-by-step help with remote setup and common remote failures, use our how to program garage door opener remotes video and garage door opener remotes wont work video.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I know what model my garage door opener is?
To identify the model on your Craftsman garage door opener (including model 13953310), look for the rating label on the powerhead (the motor unit mounted to the ceiling or wall). The label typically lists the model number and may also show a serial number.
Where to look on the opener
Check these common label locations on the powerhead housing:
- Under the front cover (common on jackshaft-style operators)
- Under the light lens/cover on a one-light opener
- Under the light lens/cover opposite the controls and antenna on a two-light opener
- On the side or back panel of the motor unit (sometimes near the wiring terminals)
If you see multiple numbers, the model number is usually the clearest identifier for parts lookup.
What to write down (so parts match)
Capture the details exactly as shown on the label.
- Model number (for example, 13953310)
- Serial number (if present)
- Motor type notes (AC vs. DC, if listed)
- Any diagnostic LED or “learn” button color notes (helpful for remote compatibility)
Quick label checklist
| What you see | What it usually means | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | The opener’s exact identity | Ensures correct parts and troubleshooting steps |
| Serial number | Production identifier | Helps distinguish similar versions |
| Motor type (AC/DC) | Drive electronics type | Affects error codes and control board match |
Why it matters
Craftsman openers can look similar across years, but parts like the logic board, safety sensors, wall control, and remotes can vary by model series. Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong replacement part and speeds up troubleshooting.
If the opener is flashing lights or showing an error
Use our model-family troubleshooting to interpret diagnostic flashes and symptoms: Craftsman error codes.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I buy Craftsman garage door opener parts?
You can buy replacement parts for your Craftsman garage door opener model 13953310 through our parts catalog on Sears PartsDirect. Use your model number to match the correct parts for your opener’s drive system, safety sensors, wall control, and remote setup.
How to find the right part for model 13953310
- Search by model number 13953310 first (best match for diagrams and compatible parts).
- Identify the symptom (won’t close, won’t open, lights blinking, remotes not working).
- Check common assemblies: motor unit, rail/drive, sprocket, logic board, safety sensors, wall control.
- Compare your existing part’s markings (numbers on the part) to the listing details.
- If multiple versions appear, match by opener series and wire connector style.
Quick troubleshooting before you order
Sometimes the “bad part” is a setup or alignment issue. These checks help you avoid buying the wrong component:
- Confirm the opener has power (outlet, breaker, and any GFCI reset).
- Make sure the safety sensor lenses are clean and aligned.
- Inspect the door for binding (a sticking door can mimic opener failure).
- Replace remote batteries and reprogram if needed.
- Watch for diagnostic light patterns on the motor unit.
| Symptom | Common cause | Parts often involved |
|---|---|---|
| Door won’t close | Safety sensor issue | Sensors, sensor wiring, brackets |
| Door reverses | Force/travel out of adjustment | Travel module, logic board, door hardware |
| No response from wall button | Control or wiring issue | Wall control, wiring, logic board |
| Motor runs but door doesn’t move | Stripped drive components | Gear kit, sprocket, rail/drive parts |
Helpful DIY resources (especially for error lights)
If your opener is flashing diagnostic codes, use our Craftsman error codes guide to narrow the failure to a specific circuit or component before ordering.
Why it matters
Garage door opener parts are model- and series-specific; ordering by Craftsman 13953310 helps ensure the replacement matches your opener’s wiring, safety sensor system, and drive configuration.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a garage door opener?
For a Craftsman garage door opener model 13953310, it’s cheaper to repair when the problem is limited to common wear items (safety sensors, wall control, remote programming, force settings) and the opener is in otherwise solid condition. Replace when the unit is older, repeatedly fails, or the repair cost is close to half the price of a comparable new opener.
Quick cost-and-decision guide
Use this rule of thumb to decide fast:
- Repair when the fix is adjustment, cleaning, wiring, or a single small component
- Replace when the motor/drive system is failing, the unit is unreliable, or multiple parts are needed
- Replace when repair labor plus parts approaches 50% of replacement cost
- Repair when the door itself is the real issue (binding rollers, broken spring, track problems) and the opener is reacting to that load
- Replace when you want quieter operation and newer safety and convenience features
| Situation | Usually cheaper | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Door won’t close and lights blink (sensor issue) | Repair | Often alignment, cleaning, or sun interference |
| Remote or keypad won’t work | Repair | Commonly battery, reprogramming, or wall control issue |
| Door reverses or stops mid-travel | Repair first | Often force/travel adjustment or door binding |
| Grinding/clicking from motor head, intermittent movement | Replace often | Drive/motor wear can become a repeat repair |
| Multiple failures in a year | Replace | Reliability and downtime cost more over time |
What we recommend checking first (before spending money)
These checks often solve “needs repair” symptoms with minimal cost:
- Confirm the safety sensor lenses are clean and aligned
- Check for sun glare hitting the sensors at certain times of day
- Make sure the door moves smoothly by hand (with the opener disconnected)
- Inspect visible wiring at the sensors and wall control for damage or loose connections
- Verify force and travel settings are correct
For model-specific blink patterns and troubleshooting steps, use Craftsman error codes.
Why it matters
A garage door opener can look “bad” when the real problem is door friction or sensor interruption. Fixing the root cause prevents repeat breakdowns, protects the motor/drive system, and keeps the safety reversal system working correctly.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the common problems with Craftsman garage door openers?
The most common problems we see on a Craftsman garage door opener like model 13953310 are safety sensor issues (door will not close, lights blink), remote or wall control problems, and worn drive components (chain/belt, gears) that cause grinding, humming, or a door that stops mid-travel.
Most common symptoms and what they usually mean
- Door will not close; opener lights blink: safety sensors are blocked, misaligned, or have wiring issues.
- Remote works sometimes or not at all: weak remote battery, interference, or a receiver/logic board issue.
- Door starts down then reverses: sensor beam interruption, force setting too low, or door binding.
- Grinding or clicking noise: worn drive gear/worm gear, loose sprocket, or dry chain.
- Motor hums but door does not move: stripped gear, broken belt/chain, or trolley not engaged.
- No power or no lights: outlet, breaker, or internal control board problem.
Quick checks we recommend before replacing parts
- Confirm the door moves freely by hand (with the opener disconnected). A binding door can mimic opener failure.
- Inspect and align the safety sensors: clean the lenses, aim them directly at each other, and secure the brackets.
- Check the photo-eye wiring at the opener head and at each sensor for loose connections or staples through the wire.
- Test wall control vs. remote: if the wall control works but remotes do not, focus on remote programming/batteries.
- Listen for the failure mode:
- Humming with no movement points to drive/gear issues.
- Repeated reversing points to sensors/force/travel.
Common problem areas (at a glance)
| Symptom | Most likely cause | Best first action |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t close; lights blink | Safety sensors | Align/clean sensors; check wiring |
| Stops mid-travel | Force/travel setting or door binding | Check door balance; adjust force/travel |
| Loud grinding | Drive gear/worm gear wear | Inspect gear housing; check for plastic shavings |
| Remote won’t work | Battery/programming/interference | Replace battery; reprogram remotes |
Why it matters
Garage door openers are designed to stop or reverse when they sense an obstruction. That is why sensor alignment, door balance, and correct force/travel settings are the first things to verify before assuming the motor or logic board is bad.
For model-specific troubleshooting patterns (including light-flash diagnostics), use our Craftsman error codes guide.
Last updated: February 2026





