Fixed Code vs Rolling Code Garage Door Remotes

When it comes to automatic garage doors in UK homes, the type of remote control used plays a key role in both convenience and security. Two main technologies dominate the market: fixed-code and rolling-code remotes. Knowing how each works, their advantages and limitations, and how they affect your system’s safety and compatibility is crucial for homeowners, landlords, self-builders and installers. This article explains what each type is, who it affects, legal and regulatory context, steps for assessing your system, typical costs and timeframes, risks and pitfalls to watch, practical tips for making the right choice, and what this means for modern installations.

What they are: Fixed code and rolling code explained

A fixed-code remote uses a static, unchanging code to operate the receiver in the garage door motor. Each time you press the button, the same code is sent. In older installations this often means a small set of DIP switches inside both the remote and receiver that have to match. Because the code never changes, if someone intercepts or duplicates the code, they can gain access at will. According to a UK industry source, fixed-code systems are now considered outdated and should be upgraded. Northwest Garage Door Spares+2qinuo.net+2

A rolling-code remote (also called hopping code) uses an algorithm that changes the transmitted code each time the remote is pressed. The receiver and transmitter are synchronised so the door opens only when the next valid code in the sequence is received. This prevents simple signal-replay attacks: even if an attacker records the transmission once, replaying it will not work because the receiver expects a new code. Wikipedia+1

Who this affects

Homeowners who have garage door openers are directly affected because the remote type determines how secure the system is. If you live in a house where the garage connects to the main building, the importance of strong security grows. Landlords and property managers with multiple garages or shared access must ensure that the remotes issued to tenants use appropriate technology. Self-builders and developers specifying new installations must choose the right technology from the start, so that the system remains future-proof and secure. Installers and maintenance contractors must recognise whether an existing installation uses fixed or rolling code, and advise appropriately on upgrades, parts availability and insurance implications.

Legal and regulatory overview in the UK

There is no UK legislation that mandates you must use a rolling-code remote rather than a fixed-code one, but there are relevant standards and regulatory expectations. Under the UK’s Radio Equipment Regulations 2017, remote control devices must comply with frequency and safety rules; remotes sold in the UK should carry a CE or UKCA mark. Rolling-code systems are not mandated but are widely adopted because fixed-code systems are recognised as vulnerable. The standard for powered garage doors, BS EN 13241-1, requires safe control systems; using a remote that allows easy unauthorised access may bring the security of the overall installation into question from an insurance or liability perspective. In other words, while the law doesn’t say "you must use rolling code", the best practice, insurance and safety expectations strongly favour it.

Steps or stages: Assessing and acting on your remote type

1. Identify your remote system. Locate the motor/receiver label in the garage and check the model. Open your remote or look at documentation: if you see DIP switches inside the remote it is likely fixed-code. As one UK technical guide explains: “If your remote has a row of small switches inside it is a fixed-code system.” Northwest Garage Door Spares+1
2. Check for compatibility and upgrade path. For a fixed-code system ask whether the manufacturer offers a rolling-code upgrade kit or whether you should replace the motor/receiver altogether.
3. Evaluate security risk. If your system is fixed-code and the remote was lost or stolen, you should assume someone could gain access. Consider resetting the receiver or upgrading immediately.
4. Plan the upgrade (if needed). If you choose to switch to a rolling-code system you will need to order the compatible receiver or motor, install it and program the remotes. Ensure you use remotes specified by the manufacturer to maintain warranty and compliance.
5. Install and verify operation. After upgrade or new programming test all remotes, ensure the door still reverses on obstruction and that control functions operate reliably.
6. Record and hand over documentation. For landlords or when handing over the property, note which remotes are issued, maintain a register and ensure future access is controlled.

Timelines and costs

If your existing system uses fixed-code and remains serviceable you might simply replace the remote handset with a compatible fixed-code unit. That may cost anywhere from £30-£60 and take half an hour. If you decide to upgrade the receiver/motor to support rolling-code technology, cost may rise to £150-£300 (or more depending on motor type) and installation may take a few hours. For commercial or multi-garage installations the cost and time scale will increase accordingly. Because rolling-code is now a standard in most modern systems the upgrade offers longer-term peace of mind.

Risks or pitfalls

If you continue to use a fixed-code system you expose yourself to the risk of code-grabbing or replay attacks. For example security researchers have demonstrated that fixed-code remotes can be compromised in seconds. WIRED Another pitfall is assuming that a remote upgrade on its own solves the problem: if the receiver is fixed-code you must upgrade it too. Using unbranded or cheap remotes may bypass the coding scheme and reduce reliability. For installers and property managers, failing to track who has remotes issued under a fixed-code system increases exposure. A further risk is that older fixed-code systems may no longer be supported, making spare parts harder to obtain and service more expensive.

Success tips

If you have a fixed-code system and budget allows, plan to upgrade to rolling-code so you align with current best practice. When you issue remotes, keep a log of who has them and regularly audit and reprogram if users change (especially in rental situations). Always buy remotes from the original manufacturer or approved supplier to maintain coding integrity. After any remote or receiver change test your system thoroughly—check range, battery conditions, safety reversal, and ensure no unintended remote still operates the door. For landlords consider subscribing to a service where remotes can be issued/removed dynamically if the system supports that.

Practical considerations and design/sustainability aspects

Upgrading from fixed-code to rolling-code does not only enhance security, it also future-proofs your installation. Many modern openers with rolling code also integrate better with smartphone apps and smart-home systems, which may add value to your property. From a sustainability perspective, rather than replacing the entire door mechanism you may in some cases retrofit the receiver or control module, reducing waste and cost. When specifying a new build or major refurbishment, select a system that supports rolling-code from the outset, ensures spare parts will be available and helps avoid obsolescence.

Case examples

Example 1: A UK homeowner discovered their remote had been lost and the system used fixed-code. Because the code never changed the homeowner assumed the worst. They upgraded to a rolling-code receiver and new remotes at a cost of £250. Since then they have seen no unexplained activations.
Example 2: A landlord managing ten garages was using fixed-code remotes. After a tenant left and did not return the remote the landlord opted to upgrade all six doors to rolling-code systems. The increased premium for upgraded units was offset by lower insurance risk and improved tenant satisfaction.
Example 3: A self-builder specified a new garage door system with rolling code technology integrated. Several years later the homeowner added a smartphone control module, which worked seamlessly because the system already used secure rolling-code foundation.

Conclusion

The difference between fixed code and rolling code garage door remotes is fundamental to security and long-term reliability. Fixed-code systems may still work, but they carry significant vulnerabilities and are increasingly outdated. Rolling-code systems offer far stronger protection against burglary, replay attacks or cloning of remotes while aligning with the expectations of insurers, landlords and modern homeowners. If you operate an automated garage door in the UK it is highly advisable to determine which system you have, and if it is fixed-code, plan for upgrading to rolling-code technology. The benefits in terms of peace of mind, security and future-proofing make it a sound decision.