If you are searching for how to program an old Genie garage door opener, you most likely have a unit that still works perfectly but uses an older programming method. Genie openers made 10–25 years ago are reliable, but the setup process is different from modern smart models.
This guide explains how to program old Genie garage door opener step by step, including remote programming, universal remotes, and specific older models.

- How Do You Program an Old Genie Garage Door Opener?
- How to Program Old Genie Garage Door Opener With Learn Button
- Steps to Program an Old Genie Garage Door Opener (Intellicode)
- How to Program Old Genie Garage Door Remote (DIP Switch Models)
- DIP Switch Programming Instructions
- How to Program Genie Garage Door Opener With Universal Remote
- Universal Remote Programming
- How to Program a Garage Door Opener to a Genie System
- How to Program an Old Genie Garage Door Opener Without Remote
- How to Program a Genie Garage Door Opener Model 1028
- Model 1028 Programming Steps
- Common Issues With Old Genie Programming
- Final Notes
- Author
How Do You Program an Old Genie Garage Door Opener?
The first step is identifying which type of old Genie opener you have. Older Genie systems use one of two programming methods:
- Intellicode (rolling code) – uses a Learn button
- DIP switch (fixed code) – uses manual switch matching
Both are covered below.
How to Program Old Genie Garage Door Opener With Learn Button
If your opener has a Learn or Program button, it uses Intellicode.
Steps to Program an Old Genie Garage Door Opener (Intellicode)
- Locate the Learn / Program button on the motor unit
- Usually on the back or under the light cover
- Press and release the Learn button
- The LED will begin blinking
- Press the button on the Genie remote
- Hold for 1–2 seconds
- Wait for the LED to stop blinking
- Test the remote
This method works for most Intellicode Genie models and covers:
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How to Program Old Genie Garage Door Remote (DIP Switch Models)
Very old Genie openers do not have a Learn button. They use DIP switches.
DIP Switch Programming Instructions
- Open the remote control case
- Locate the DIP switches inside
- Open the motor unit cover
- Match the switch positions exactly
- Close both covers
- Test the remote
This is the correct method for:
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- older Genie models without Learn button
How to Program Genie Garage Door Opener With Universal Remote
If you do not have the original remote, a universal remote is often the easiest solution.
Universal Remote Programming
- Set the universal remote to Genie mode
- For Intellicode models:
- Press Learn on the opener
- Press the remote button
- For DIP switch models:
- Match the DIP switches manually
This answers:
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How to Program a Garage Door Opener to a Genie System
If you are pairing a different remote or transmitter to a Genie opener, the process depends on compatibility.
- Intellicode openers require Learn button programming
- DIP switch openers require exact switch matching
- Not all modern remotes support very old Genie frequencies
This section covers:
- how to program a garage door opener to a genie
How to Program an Old Genie Garage Door Opener Without Remote
If you have no working remote, your options are limited.
You cannot program the opener directly without a transmitter. You will need one of the following:
- A Genie-compatible universal remote
- A HomeLink-equipped vehicle (Intellicode only)
- A replacement Genie remote
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How to Program a Genie Garage Door Opener Model 1028
The Genie Model 1028 is an older Intellicode opener.
Model 1028 Programming Steps
- Press the Learn button on the opener
- Wait for the LED to blink
- Press the remote button once
- Confirm door movement
This directly answers:
- how to program a genie garage door opener model 1028
Common Issues With Old Genie Programming
| Issue | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Remote not responding | Wrong system type | Check Intellicode vs DIP |
| Programming fails | Weak battery | Replace remote battery |
| Door activates randomly | Interference | Change DIP code |
| Universal remote not working | Incompatible frequency | Use Genie-supported model |
Final Notes
Programming an old Genie garage door opener is usually straightforward once you know the system type. Whether you are trying to program an old remote, a universal remote, or a specific Genie model, the key is using the correct method.
This guide fully covers:
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