Key takeaways
- Short answer: You shouldn't replace torsion springs (the springs mounted above the door) yourself — they hold extreme tension and winding them wrong causes serious injuries.
- Torsion springs: hire a pro
- Extension springs: possible with safety cables
- Pro replacement: $150–$350
- Typical garage door repair cost: $80–$675 per repair.
Torsion vs. extension springs
| Torsion springs | Extension springs | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bar above the door | Along the horizontal tracks |
| Risk | Very high — wound under tension | High if no safety cable |
| DIY? | No | Only with experience and safety cables |
| Lifespan | Often ~10,000 cycles | Often ~10,000 cycles |
Signs a spring is broken
- A loud bang from the garage
- A visible gap in the torsion spring coil
- The door feels very heavy or opens only a few inches
- Cables hanging loose
Related questions
How long does spring replacement take?
A professional typically replaces springs in about an hour.
Should both springs be replaced?
Yes. Springs wear at the same rate, so the second usually breaks soon after the first.
Can I open a garage door with a broken spring?
Avoid it. The door is extremely heavy without the spring's help and can fall or damage the opener.
Other garage door repair questions homeowners ask
How much does garage door spring replacement cost?
Spring replacement typically costs $150–$350, with about $250 average. Replace both springs together so they wear evenly.
Is it safe to use a garage door with a broken spring?
No. The door can slam down and the opener can be damaged. Leave it closed and call a technician.
Should I repair or replace my garage door?
Repair springs, cables, rollers and openers. Replace the door when panels are cracked, rusted or badly dented, or when repairs keep stacking up.
How much does garage door repair cost?
Most garage door repairs cost about $80–$675. The national average is around $260.
How long do garage door springs last?
Standard torsion springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, which is roughly 7–10 years at a few openings a day. Higher-cycle springs last longer.
Why won't my garage door close?
The most common cause is misaligned or dirty safety sensors. Obstructions, limit settings and track problems are next.
How much does a new garage door opener cost?
Installed openers usually cost a few hundred dollars, with quiet belt drives and smart models at the higher end.
How often should a garage door be serviced?
Once a year, plus lubricating the moving parts every 6 months and testing auto-reverse monthly.
Garage Door Repair at a glance
Timeline
Most repairs take 1–2 hours. A new door is usually installed in half a day.
Permits
Repairs need no permit. A new door may need one in high-wind code areas.
DIY or pro?
Lubricating rollers, tightening hardware and testing auto-reverse are DIY jobs. Springs and cables are under high tension, so call a pro.
What garage door repair costs
Garage door repair averages about $260, and most repairs cost $80–$675. Broken springs — the most common call — usually cost $150–$350 to replace.