The LiftMaster 973LM remote control has been a favorite among homeowners for years thanks to its durability and ease of use. However, finding Liftmaster garage door openers that work with 973LM remote can be tricky, especially with new models constantly entering the market and older ones becoming obsolete.
This in-depth article will help you understand:
- Which LiftMaster models are compatible with the 973LM remote
- How to identify a compatible opener
- Tips for programming your remote
- What to do if your remote or opener is outdated
- Key features of the 973LM system
If you’re searching for reliable answers about Liftmaster garage door openers that work with 973LM remote, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it all down.
Read too: Why Are My Garage Doors Opening By Themselves? Troubleshooting Guide
Liftmaster Garage Door Openers That Work With 973Lm Remote – Complete Compatibility Guide
Not all LiftMaster garage door openers are designed to work with the 973LM remote. To determine compatibility, we need to consider radio frequency, security system version, and opener model year.
The 973LM Remote at a Glance
- Frequency: 315 MHz
- Buttons: 3 (multi-device control)
- Security System: Security+ (not Security+ 2.0)
- Battery: 3V lithium coin cell
- Color of Learn Button Compatibility: Red or Orange
Compatible LiftMaster Openers by Series
1. LiftMaster Security+ Series (1997–2004)
The 973LM remote was specifically designed to work with LiftMaster openers manufactured between 1997 and 2004 that used Security+ technology and operated on the 315 MHz frequency.
If your opener has a red, orange, or amber-colored learn button, your opener is compatible.
Compatible Models Include:
- LiftMaster 1240R
- LiftMaster 1245R
- LiftMaster 1255R
- LiftMaster 1260R
- LiftMaster 1265R
- LiftMaster 1270R
- LiftMaster 1280R
- LiftMaster 1280R
- LiftMaster 220WD
- LiftMaster 3220
- LiftMaster 3280 (older versions)
✅ Note: Newer models with yellow learn buttons use Security+ 2.0 and are not compatible with the 973LM remote.
How To Identify a Compatible Opener
If you’re not sure whether your garage door opener works with the 973LM remote, follow these steps:
Step 1: Locate the Learn Button
- Find the Learn Button on your LiftMaster opener motor unit.
- This button is usually under the light lens or on the back panel of the unit.
Step 2: Check the Color
| Learn Button Color | Compatible with 973LM? | Technology Used |
|---|---|---|
| Red/Orange | ✅ Yes | Security+ |
| Green | ❌ No | Older models |
| Yellow | ❌ No | Security+ 2.0 |
| Purple | ❌ No | 390 MHz |
If your Learn button is red or orange, your opener is compatible with the 973LM remote.
How to Program the 973LM Remote with a Compatible LiftMaster Opener
Once you’ve confirmed compatibility, programming your 973LM remote is quick and easy. Here’s how:
Steps to Program:
- Press and release the “Learn” button on your opener.
- The LED light next to the button will turn on (you have 30 seconds).
- Press and hold one of the buttons on the 973LM remote.
- Release the button when the garage opener light blinks or you hear two clicks.
- Test the remote to ensure it’s working properly.
📌 Tip: If the remote doesn’t pair, double-check the color of the Learn button and make sure the battery in the remote is fresh.
Benefits of Using Liftmaster Garage Door Openers That Work With 973Lm Remote
Using a compatible combination of opener and remote like the 973LM and a LiftMaster Security+ unit offers many advantages:
1. Reliable Signal Strength
The 315 MHz frequency reduces interference from household electronics, which was a common issue with older systems.
2. Multi-Door Access
The 973LM has three buttons, so you can control up to three openers or gates from a single remote.
3. Security+ Encryption
The rolling code system sends a new code every time you use it, making it virtually impossible to duplicate or hack.
4. Wide Range
The remote has a range of up to 150 feet, depending on the environment and opener antenna position.
What If You Have a Newer LiftMaster Opener?
Newer LiftMaster openers from 2005 and beyond, especially those with a yellow Learn button, use Security+ 2.0, which operates on 310/390/315 MHz tri-band frequency and is not compatible with the 973LM remote.
In such cases, consider upgrading to:
- LiftMaster 893MAX (universal remote)
- LiftMaster 890MAX (mini universal keychain remote)
These newer remotes are backward compatible with most Security+, Security+ 2.0, and even some older models.
What To Do If You Lost Your 973LM Remote
If your 973LM remote is missing or damaged but your opener is still compatible with it, you can still find replacements online or in-store.
Where to Buy:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Home improvement stores (Lowe’s, Home Depot)
- LiftMaster official website
- Garage door specialists
🧠 Warning: Always buy from reputable sellers. Some cheap remotes are poorly made clones and may not program correctly or may have short battery life.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even with a compatible opener, you might run into occasional issues:
Common Problems:
- Remote doesn’t pair
- Remote intermittently works
- Range is reduced
- Door opens/closes erratically
Solutions:
- Replace the remote’s battery
- Check antenna on opener for damage or alignment
- Reprogram the remote
- Reset opener memory and re-pair all remotes
Summary of Compatibility
| LiftMaster Model | Learn Button Color | Compatible with 973LM? |
|---|---|---|
| 1240R | Red | ✅ |
| 1260R | Red | ✅ |
| 3280 (pre-2005) | Red | ✅ |
| 8355W | Yellow | ❌ |
| 8500W | Yellow | ❌ |
| 8900 Series | Purple/Yellow | ❌ |
Conclusion
Finding Liftmaster garage door openers that work with 973LM remote isn’t difficult once you understand the key elements: Learn button color, Security+ technology, and frequency compatibility.
Stick with models made between 1997 and 2004 with red or orange Learn buttons, and you’ll have no trouble using your 973LM remote. If you’re upgrading your system or working with newer openers, consider modern remotes like the 893MAX for wider compatibility.
Keep your home secure and your garage access smooth by understanding your opener’s tech specs and choosing remotes that are tested and approved. Whether you’re maintaining an older LiftMaster or transitioning to newer tech, your garage door will thank you.
Have questions about your specific LiftMaster model? Feel free to ask!
Leave a Reply