Step motor not retracting

An entry step that won't retract (or extend) is usually one of: a tripped circuit breaker specific to the step, a worn-out linear actuator motor, or a jammed mechanism from road debris. Check the breaker first since it's the cheapest possible fix. If power is confirmed at the step motor and it still won't move, listen for a hum (motor trying but binding) versus complete silence (no power reaching it or a dead motor). Which is it?