Assuming you can't open/close with the door handle. If that is the case it is two different problems. To open a signal is sent through the contacts on the front of the sliding door. You need to clean the contacts with a mild abrasive, pencil eraser or fine (600 grit) sandpaper. For closing there is a rod that goes from the handle to a switch in the lower rear corner of the door frame. When the handle is pulled the rod presses the switch starting the door closing. The problem can be caused by a lot of things, misaligned door, door rollers missing, switch bad or damaged, rod misadjusted, etc.