How to Replace a Garage Door Spring Cable: Safety Tips
Published Date: Oct 3, 2025
If your garage door is sagging, stuck on one side, or won’t open at all, a damaged spring cable may be the problem. It’s a common issue — and one that tempts many homeowners to try a DIY fix. But before grabbing a wrench, it’s worth understanding exactly what spring cables do, how they work, and whether replacing one is something you can handle safely.
This guide from Up & Down Garage Doors covers how to replace the spring cable on a garage door in the safest way possible — and when it’s better to leave it to a pro.
Can You Replace the Spring Cable on a Garage Door Yourself?
It depends. In some cases, you can safely replace a cable — especially if the spring is no longer under tension or if the cable simply slipped off the drum. But in most cases, the job is more complicated than it seems.
Torsion springs store a large amount of energy. If the cable snaps while the spring is still loaded, trying to fix it yourself can cause the door to drop suddenly — or worse, lead to injury.
That’s why it’s important to stop and assess: Is the door still under tension? Does it feel heavier than normal? Do you hear grinding from the drum?
If you answer yes to any of these, professional garage door spring repair is the smarter and safer option.
How to Replace a Garage Door Spring Cable Without Risk
If your setup is safe — the door is down, power is off, and the spring isn’t active — replacing the spring cable may be doable. Here’s how to replace the spring cable on a garage door, step by step — safely and clearly.
- Disconnect the opener. Unplug the opener or switch off the breaker to prevent unexpected movement.
- Secure the door. Use locking pliers or clamps on both tracks to hold the door steady while you work.
- Remove the old cable. Detach it from the bottom bracket and unwind it from the drum at the top of the track. Check the drum for sharp edges or signs of wear.
- Install the new cable. Thread it through the same path, making sure it sits correctly in the drum grooves. Always use a cable that matches your door’s original specs — the wrong size can affect balance and tracking.
- Check the balance. Both cables should have even tension. Adjust if one side is tighter or looser than the other.
- Restore power and test. Turn the power back on and test the door. It should move smoothly and evenly. If it jerks, tilts, or still won’t lift, it’s best to stop and get professional help before more damage happens.
This is only safe when the spring is inactive — such as after a failure or during professional servicing. Some homeowners also explore how to install garage door spring cables as part of regular upkeep. Just keep in mind: cable work may look simple, but it’s tied directly to high-tension parts of the system.
If anything feels off, stop right away. The risk isn’t worth guessing.
When to Stop and Call a Pro
Even if you’re handy, cable replacement isn’t always a good DIY project — especially if you're unsure about the system type or whether tension is still active.
Here are signs it’s time to bring in a professional:
- The door won’t stay open or closes too fast
- The drum is warped or misaligned
- The cable keeps slipping, even after reinstalling
- You hear grinding, popping, or uneven movement
In more urgent situations — like when your spring is already broken and the door is stuck shut — check out our guide on how to open a garage door with a broken spring.
Professional Help from Up & Down Garage Doors
At Up & Down Garage Doors, we work with homeowners, landlords, real estate agents, auto shop owners, and business managers across the region. Whether it’s a jammed door, a broken spring, or a cable that won’t stay in place, we’re ready to fix the problem safely and quickly.
We serve multiple areas across Connecticut and Texas, including cities like New Haven, Dallas, Houston, and more — and we’re continuing to expand. You can check if we’re near you on our locations page.
Need same-day repair or expert advice before starting a repair? Reach out to Up & Down Garage Doors today. We’ll take care of your garage door issues so you don’t have to take chances.
