If your garage door isn’t opening like it used to, a broken cable might be the reason. Garage door cables help lift and lower your door safely. When they snap or wear out, your whole system can stop working. Let’s break down what goes into garage door cable repair cost, what to expect, and when to call in the pros.
A garage door cable is a strong wire that works with the springs to help lift and lower the door. It winds around a drum when the door moves. Most homes use either torsion or extension spring systems, and both rely on cables to stay balanced and safe.
If a cable breaks, the door can become crooked or jammed. It might even fall. That’s why it’s important to fix the issue right away. Cables are typically made from galvanized steel and are built to last. But like any moving part, they wear out over time.
How Much Does Garage Door Cable Repair Cost?
Garage door cable repair cost usually ranges from $150 to $400, depending on the type of door, how many cables need to be replaced, and your local rates. Here’s a closer look:
- Single cable replacement: $150–$250
- Both cables replaced: $200–$400
- Extra repairs (like spring adjustment): May add $50–$100
If your door has extra damage or needs a full tune-up, the cost can go up. But for most basic cable fixes, $200 is a solid average.
Some garages may need specialized cables if the system is older or if the door is oversized. Specialty cables or labor-intensive repairs can push the price closer to the high end of the range.
What Affects the Price?
Some things that may change your garage door cable repair cost:
- Type of cable: Heavy-duty, coated, or custom-length cables cost more.
- Garage door size/weight: Larger or insulated doors need stronger cables.
- Service timing: Emergency or after-hours calls might cost extra.
- Labor rates: Prices vary depending on your area and company.
- Cable material: Galvanized steel vs stainless steel may impact price.
Accessibility: Tight spaces or hard-to-reach components increase labor time.
Can I Open My Garage Door with a Broken Cable?
No, and it’s not safe to try.
A broken cable throws off the balance of your door. Trying to force it open can cause more damage or even injury. It’s best to leave it closed and call a professional.
Your garage door relies on both cables working together to keep things even. If one snaps, the door can tilt and bind, leading to damaged rollers, bent tracks, or a burnt-out opener. In the worst cases, the entire door could come crashing down.
When a cable breaks, you’ll usually see or hear it. The signs include:
- One side of the door hanging lower than the other
- Loud snapping noise from the garage
- A door that’s stuck or off-track
- The opener struggling to lift the door
- Loose or hanging cable near the drum or pulley
The garage door may become unstable or completely jam. Continuing to operate it in this condition puts more stress on the other cable and spring system.
Also, a broken cable can cause the door to slam shut. That can damage panels, smash items beneath the door, or create serious safety risks for pets and people.
Most garage door cables last 7 to 10 years with normal use. But that can change depending on:
- Climate: Humid, coastal, or wet environments can cause faster rust.
- Garage use: A busy household that opens the door several times a day will wear parts faster.
- Maintenance: Lubricating cables and checking for frays extends their life.
If your cables are starting to fray, rust, or lose tension, it’s time to consider replacing them. Don’t wait for a snap!
Having your garage door serviced yearly can help you catch worn cables early. Our team at Overhead Door Company of Bellingham offers maintenance plans to make it easy.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Cable Repairs
Garage door cable replacement isn’t a safe DIY project. These cables are under high tension, especially when paired with torsion springs. One wrong move can lead to serious injuries.
Also, without proper tools and know-how, it’s easy to damage your garage door system. Professional technicians are trained to handle cables safely and efficiently.
Trying to save a few bucks on DIY cable repair can cost you more in damage and safety. Stick with a trusted local company.
Why Call Overhead Door Company of Bellingham?
We’ve been fixing garage doors in Bellingham for years. When it comes to garage door cable repair, we:
- Arrive fast
- Work safely
- Use quality parts
- Offer clear pricing
- Respect your time and home
We proudly serve Whatcom County and nearby areas. Our techs are trained, licensed, and ready to help.
Quick Signs You Need Garage Door Cable Repair
- Door is crooked or sagging
- You hear a loud pop or snap
- Door won’t open all the way
- Frayed or hanging cables
- Door moves unevenly or jerks
- Visible rust on the cable or pulley
If you see any of these signs, don’t wait. Fixing a cable early is always better than replacing a damaged door later.
Other Parts That May Need Repair
Sometimes when cables break, other parts may also be affected:
- Springs: Often replaced or adjusted with cables.
- Pulleys or drums: Can wear out or get damaged when cables snap.
- Rollers: May get knocked off-track or jammed.
- Tracks: Can bend if the door drops or moves unevenly.
It’s smart to have your full system inspected when doing cable repairs. That way, you won’t have another surprise issue down the line.
Ask us about our full garage door tune-up service!
Preventing Cable Wear
Want to make your garage door cables last longer? Here are a few tips:
- Lubricate cables and moving parts twice a year
- Keep the area around the drum clean
- Inspect cables for rust, frays, or sagging
- Don’t overload your door with heavy panels
- Call for service at the first sign of trouble
How much should it cost to replace a garage door cable?
Most homeowners pay between $150 and $400 depending on parts and labor.
Can I open a garage door with a broken cable?
No. It’s dangerous and can damage the door or opener. Always call a pro.
What happens if a cable breaks on a garage door?
The door may sag, jam, or fall suddenly. It can also cause damage to other parts.
How often should I replace garage door cables?
Every 7 to 10 years, or sooner if you see wear, rust, or fraying.
Regular maintenance is the key. And we make it easy.
Call Overhead Door Company of Bellingham at (360) 734-5960 to ask about service plans!
