Why a Garage Door Is Crooked or Uneven

An uneven door is a movement problem, not just an appearance issue

If one side of a garage door sits lower, a panel looks out of alignment, or the door rubs during travel, stop using it until you can describe the condition clearly. Uneven movement can involve several connected components.

Do not use the opener to straighten it

Trying to force the opener through the cycle can place more stress on the tracks, rollers, cables, and door sections. Keep the opening clear and avoid pulling the door into a different position yourself.

Details that help

Note where the door is sitting, whether it is open or closed, whether a roller appears outside the track, and whether the issue began suddenly or developed over time. A photo can be useful when it is safe to take from a distance, but it is not required.

Explore the relevant topics

Read about Off-Track Garage Door Repair and Garage Door Cable & Roller Repair. For a visibly displaced cable, see What To Do When a Garage Door Cable Comes Off.