Garage Door Spring Repair

Spring back to life, literally.

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The general public’s knowledge of garage doors and openers typically starts and ends at the remote. Click the button, and it opens. Click it again, and it closes. It’s one of those things we take for granted. But what happens when the button clicks and the door fails to go up?

That’s when you pull out your Sherlock Holmes hat and diagnose the issue. One likely culprit could be traced to a broken garage door spring in need of repair. And for the sake of this article, we’re going to say that is indeed why your garage door isn’t going up and down.

If the torsion spring has a split, crack or separation, it’s broken. Its attachment to a garage door might suggest a complicated repair, but with some caution and the correct tools, it’s entirely in the realm of possibility for any DIY-minded homeowner. Follow below, as The Drive’s crack informational team explains how garage door springs work and how to replace them.

Estimated Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Skill Level: Moderate

There are two types of garage door springs: extension springs and torsion springs, with the latter being the more common of the pair. Both serve the purpose of assisting the lifting of the garage door and maintaining a smooth and balanced opening and/or closing. Essentially, the spring acts as a counterbalance.

These are typically located above the horizontal garage door track and run perpendicular to the garage door.

Torsion springs are typically centrally located above the garage door and run parallel to the garage door opening.

Garage doors can be extremely dangerous if not approached with care and caution. Torsion springs, in particular, are wound up with extreme tension and can exert a large amount of torque. When working on garage door springs, use a sturdy ladder, be sure to establish a good footing, and properly brace yourself to counteract the force. For people who do not have a lot of upper body strength, assistance might be needed. Additional precautionary protection, such as glasses and gloves, are recommended as well.

We’re not psychic, nor are we snooping through your toolbox or garage, so here’s exactly what you’ll need to get the job done.

Organizing your tools and gear so everything is easily reachable will save precious minutes waiting for your handy-dandy child or four-legged helper to bring you the sandpaper or blowtorch. (You won't need a blowtorch for this job. Please don’t have your kid hand you a blowtorch—Ed.)

Before heading to the hardware store for spring replacements, write down this information. These notes will help determine which springs to buy. Keep in mind, springs are typically 1-2 inches longer when wound.

Let’s get into it.

Safety note: Be patient, and never put your hand on the springs for stability. When using the winding bars, keep them away from your face and clothes.

If all is working well, you’re done!

The Drive recognizes that while our How-To guides are detailed and easily followed, a rusty bolt, an engine component not in the correct position, or oil leaking everywhere can derail a project. That’s why we’ve partnered with JustAnswer, which connects you to certified mechanics around the globe, to get you through even the toughest jobs.

So if you have a question or are stuck, click here and talk to a mechanic near you.

Throughout the years, The Drive’s editors have seen every problem a garage and its door can have. Use these pro tips to make fixing the garage door springs a smooth process.

On average, a set of garage door torsion springs costs between $60-100, and winding bars will tack on another $15-20. According to Angie’s List, a professional garage door spring replacement should cost about $200-300, including parts and labor.

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Matador Garage Door Insulation Kit

Got a question? Got a pro tip? Send us a note: [email protected]