Garage door cables are small but very important. They help your garage door open and close safely. If they break, your door may stop working—or worse, fall suddenly. This guide will show you how to fix garage door cable problems safely and easily.
Before you start, keep in mind: if you’re unsure, it’s always best to call a pro. SCF Garage Doors offers fast and reliable garage door cable repair in Sacramento and nearby areas.
What Are Garage Door Cables?
Garage door cables are strong wires. They work with springs to lift and lower the door. Over time, cables wear out. Rust, fraying, or snapping can make your door dangerous.
Tools You Will Need
Before starting your garage door cable repair, you need to gather the right tools. You should have locking pliers, wrenches, safety glasses, gloves, a ladder, and a replacement cable. Always unplug the garage door opener before you start working to make sure you stay safe.
Signs You Need Garage Door Cable Repair
Before learning how to repair garage door cable, know what signs to look for:
- Door opens crooked or uneven
- Loud snapping noise
- Cable looks loose, frayed, or broken
- Door gets stuck halfway
- Garage door is very heavy to lift
If you see any of these, stop using the door and check the cables.
Safety First Before Fixing the Garage Door Cable!
Fixing a garage door cable is risky. The springs are under high tension. A sudden release can cause serious injury. If you’re not confident, call an expert. We know how to fix garage door cable problems quickly and safely.
Step-by-Step: How to Fix Garage Door Cable
Step 1: Disconnect the Power
Turn off the garage door opener. Unplug it from the wall. This keeps the door from moving while you work.
Step 2: Open the Door Manually
Lift the door and clamp it open using locking pliers or clamps. This takes the weight off the cables.
Step 3: Release the Tension (Torsion Spring System)
Only do this if you know how! Use winding bars to slowly unwind the tension from the torsion springs. Never use screwdrivers or makeshift tools.
Step 4: Remove the Damaged Cable
Find the broken cable. Unscrew the fasteners that hold it in place. Carefully remove the old cable from the drum and pulley system.
Step 5: Install the New Cable
Thread the new cable into place. Hook it into the bottom bracket and wrap it around the drum. Make sure it’s tight and straight.
Step 6: Re-Tension the Spring (Torsion Systems)
If you released the spring earlier, rewind the spring with winding bars to the correct tension. Always double-check.
Step 7: Test the Door
Remove the clamps and try opening the door by hand. It should move smoothly and stay in place when half open. Plug the opener back in and test the door again.
When to Call a Pro
Sometimes it’s better to leave it to the experts. If your door is very heavy, has double springs, or the cable keeps breaking, don’t take any chances. Call SCF Garage Doors, we know how to repair garage door cable problems right the first time.
Why Choose SCF Garage Doors?
We offer same-day garage door cable repair in Sacramento and surrounding areas. Our team is trained, insured, and ready to help. We use top-quality parts and make sure your garage door runs like new.
Final Tips
- Check your cables once a month
- Don’t wait until they snap
- Keep your garage door system clean and lubricated
- Schedule a yearly tune-up
Need Help Fixing Your Garage Door Cable?
Don’t risk injury or further damage. If you’re unsure how to fix the garage door cable safely, give us a call. SCF Garage Doors is here to help with expert, fast, and affordable garage door cable repair service.