Having your garage door go off track can be frustrating and inconvenient. Whether an obstruction or a worn-out part causes it, a malfunctioning garage door requires immediate attention. Fortunately, with some essential tools and the proper steps, you can often resolve this issue yourself, preventing further damage and costly repairs.
This guide covers common reasons garage doors go off track and provides a step-by-step method for safely realigning your door. From securing the door to inspecting tracks and rollers, you’ll learn how to efficiently get everything back in place. Keeping your tracks clean and hardware tightened are just some tips to help you prevent future derailments.
Calling a professional is recommended if the issue seems severe, like multiple rollers coming off track or bent tracks. Keep reading to learn how to fix and prevent your garage door from going off track again!
How to Safely Get Your Garage Door Back on Track
When your garage door comes off its track, it’s essential to approach the fix with caution. Garage doors are heavy and under high tension, so following the correct steps will help ensure a smooth and safe repair.
1. Stop Using the Garage Door Immediately
The first and most crucial step is to stop using the garage door as soon as you notice it’s off track. Forcing the door to open or close while it’s misaligned can cause further damage to the door, track, and other components. If your garage door opener is still engaged, disconnect it to avoid automatic operation.
2. Gather the Necessary Tools
Before attempting to fix the garage door, gather the tools you’ll need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Pliers
- Locking pliers or C-clamps
- Hammer
- Level
- Ladder (if necessary)
3. Ensure the Garage Door is Secured
For safety, ensure the garage door cannot move while you’re working. If the door is partially open or stuck in place, use locking pliers or C-clamps to hold the door securely to the tracks. This prevents it from accidentally sliding down while you work.
4. Inspect the Tracks and Rollers
Before attempting any repairs, carefully inspect the tracks and rollers. Look for visible damage such as:
- Dents or bends in the track
- Loose brackets or fasteners
- Rollers that are broken or worn out
The track may need professional repair if it is severely damaged or misaligned. However, if the issue is minor, proceed to realign the garage door yourself.
5. Gently Realign the Door
- Straighten the track: If bent, gently tap it back into place using a hammer and a block of wood to avoid further damage.
- Guide the rollers back: Position yourself at the misaligned section once the track is straight. Using pliers, carefully pull the track’s outside edge open just enough to fit the rollers back into the track.
- Test the alignment: After the rollers are realigned, manually lift the door to ensure it moves smoothly within the track. If it glides properly without resistance, you’re on the right track.
6. Check for Proper Alignment
After realigning the door, use a level to check if the tracks align correctly. Tracks should be parallel to each other and even. If the tracks are misaligned, loosen the screws that attach the track to the wall and gently tap the track into place before tightening the screws again.
7. Tighten All Loose Hardware
After realigning the door and tracks, inspect the brackets, bolts, and screws. Tighten any that have become loose over time. This will secure the door and help prevent future derailments.
8. Test the Door’s Functionality
Once everything is back in place, carefully reconnect the garage door opener and test the door. Open and close the door several times to ensure it operates smoothly and quietly. If the door still struggles or goes off track again, it might be time to call a professional.
Common Causes of Garage Door Rollers Coming Off Track
Preventing future issues starts with understanding why garage doors go off track. Below are some common reasons garage door rollers derail and how to avoid them.
1. Obstructions in the Track
Debris, such as dirt, rocks, or small objects, can quickly become lodged in the tracks, preventing the rollers from moving smoothly. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your garage door tracks will reduce the risk of obstructions.
Prevention Tip: Keep the tracks clean by regularly sweeping out debris or wiping them down with a damp cloth.
2. Misaligned Tracks
Garage door tracks can become misaligned over time due to constant movement or a vehicle bump. When the tracks are not properly aligned, the rollers may come out of place, causing the door to go off track.
Prevention Tip: Periodically check the track alignment with a level and make minor adjustments to keep them parallel.
3. Worn or Damaged Rollers
Over time, the rollers can wear out or get damaged, especially if they are plastic. Damaged rollers won’t glide smoothly and may cause the door to jump off the track.
Prevention Tip: Inspect the rollers for signs of wear, cracks, or breakage. Replace them with new metal rollers for added durability if they’re not rolling smoothly.
4. Loose or Broken Hardware
The hardware that holds the tracks in place can loosen over time due to constant use and vibrations. If the brackets or screws that hold the track are loose or broken, the tracks may shift, causing the rollers to come off.
Prevention Tip: Regularly tighten loose hardware and replace damaged parts to ensure everything stays securely in place.
5. Forceful Impact
Sometimes, accidents happen. Whether a car bumps into the door or an object hits it hard enough, a sudden impact can knock the door off its track.
Prevention Tip: Be mindful of how close vehicles or objects are to the garage door. Ensuring sufficient clearance around the garage entrance can help prevent accidental impacts.
When to Call a Professional
While minor derailments can be fixed with some basic tools and DIY know-how, some situations call for professional help:
- Severely damaged tracks: A professional must replace them if the tracks are bent or broken beyond simple repairs.
- Multiple rollers off track: If more than a few rollers have derailed, it might indicate a more serious issue with your garage door system.
- Frequent derailments: If your garage door frequently goes off track, it could be a sign of a bigger problem with its balance, alignment, or tension, requiring expert attention.
How to Prevent Your Garage Door from Going Off Track Again
Maintaining your system regularly is the best way to avoid future garage door derailments. Here are some simple tips to keep your door running smoothly:
- Lubricate the Rollers and Tracks:
Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers and tracks every six months to ensure smooth movement and reduce friction. Avoid grease-based lubricants, as they attract debris. Regular lubrication keeps the door moving smoothly and prevents it from derailing.
- Inspect the Door Balance:
Check the door’s balance by manually lifting it halfway. If it falls or rises, it’s unbalanced and needs adjustment. A properly balanced door prevents excess strain on components, reducing the likelihood of derailment. Seek professional help if you notice balance issues.
- Check for Wear and Tear:
Inspect tracks, rollers, and hardware for rust, cracks, or wear. Tighten loose bolts and replace worn rollers, especially plastic ones. Damaged parts can cause the door to go off track, so early detection is key to preventing more significant issues.
- Keep the Tracks Clean:
Debris, like dirt or leaves, can obstruct the door’s movement, causing derailment. Clean the tracks regularly with a damp cloth or vacuum to ensure smooth operation. Clear tracks help the rollers glide effortlessly and prevent future malfunctions.
- Test the Safety Features:
Check sensors and the auto-reverse function monthly. Misaligned or faulty sensors can cause the door to close unevenly, leading to derailment. Regularly testing and maintaining these features ensures safe, reliable operation and prevents accidents.
- Professional Tune-ups:
Schedule annual tune-ups with a professional technician to inspect and adjust the garage door repair components. A trained eye can catch early signs of wear or misalignment, ensuring smooth operation and preventing derailments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get my garage door chain back on track?
To get a garage door chain back on track, first disconnect the power to the opener. Then, manually move the door to the closed position. Check the chain for any twists or kinks and realign it with the sprocket on the motor. Once realigned, reconnect the power and test the door’s operation.
Why do garage doors come off the track?
Garage doors often come off track due to misalignment, damaged tracks, or obstacles obstructing the door’s movement. Additionally, worn-out rollers or broken cables can cause the door to derail. Regular maintenance and ensuring the tracks are clear and straight can prevent these issues.
How do I get my garage door back on track after pulling the string?
After pulling the emergency release string, manually move the door to align it with the tracks. Check for any obstructions or misalignments in the tracks and correct them. Once the door is properly aligned, pull the string to re-engage the opener’s trolley, then test the door’s operation to ensure it moves smoothly.
How do you manually release a garage door?
To manually release a garage door, locate the emergency release cord, usually a red handle hanging from the door’s trolley. Pull the cord downward to disengage the door from the opener. This allows you to lift or lower the garage door manually. Ensure the door is stable before disengaging to avoid sudden movements.
How do you disengage an automatic garage door?
Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the door from the opener to disengage an automatic garage door. This cord is typically red and hangs from the trolley that moves along the rail. Once disengaged, the door can be operated manually. To re-engage, pull the cord again or move the door to align with the opener’s trolley.
Wrapping Up
A garage door going off track can be an inconvenience, but it’s often a fixable problem with the right approach. Following these steps and addressing common causes can get your door back on track and avoid future derailments.
Regular maintenance, such as keeping the tracks clean and ensuring the hardware is secure, will extend the life of your new garage door system. However, if you’re ever in doubt or the problem seems too complex, don’t hesitate to call a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
End Note
At Martin Garage Doors, we know how frustrating it can be when your garage door goes off track. But don’t worry, our expert team is here to help! We offer top-notch garage door services, from repairs and maintenance to complete replacements. Whether you’re dealing with a misaligned door, damaged rollers, or broken springs, we have the experience to fix it quickly.
We proudly install and repair major brands like Amarr Garage Doors, C.H.I. Garage Overhead Doors, and Wayne-Dalton. Whether you’re in Colorado Springs, Denver, or surrounding areas, our specialists can handle everything from basic repairs to advanced opener issues, including Genie and Liftmaster models.
Visit our About Us page to learn more, or Contact Us today for a consultation. Explore our full services at Martin Garage Doors—we’re just a call away!