Can You Fix a Garage Door Spring Yourself? A Step-by-Step Guide

Garage door springs are essential components that provide the lifting force needed to open and close your garage door smoothly. However, these springs are under immense tension and can be dangerous if not handled properly. When a garage door spring breaks, you have two options: call a professional or replace the spring yourself. While hiring a pro can cost between $200 to $300, you can save money by doing it yourself for $30 to $100 in parts.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials:

Two winding bars (to remove tension from the existing springs and add tension to the replacement springs)
Vise grips (to keep the torsion shaft from falling out when removing the old springs)
Wrenches: 9/16, 1/2, and 7/16 inches, 3/8-inch square head, or eight-point socket
Replacement torsion springs (make sure to measure your existing springs for the correct size)
Garage door lubricant
Safety goggles

Step 1: Release Tension in the Torsion Spring

The first step is to release the tension in the torsion spring. Insert the winding bars into the holes in the spring, then use a wrench to loosen the set screws on the spring. Gradually release the tension by turning the winding bars counterclockwise until the spring is fully unwound.

Step 2: Remove the Old Springs

Once the tension is released, use a wrench to remove the nuts and bolts that secure the springs to the center bracket. Slide the torsion tube out of the bearing brackets and remove the old springs.

Step 3: Install the New Springs

Slide the new torsion springs onto the torsion tube, making sure the stationary cones are facing the center bracket. Reattach the cable drums and reinstall the torsion tube into the bearing brackets.

Step 4: Wind the New Springs

Insert the winding bars into the holes in the new springs and turn them clockwise to add tension. Count the number of turns and match the tension of the new springs to the old ones. Tighten the set screws on the springs to secure them in place.

Step 5: Lubricate and Test

Lubricate the springs with garage door lubricant and wipe off any excess. Lift the garage door about 3 feet by hand and let go. If the door stays in place, the springs are properly adjusted. If the door falls, add a quarter turn to each spring and repeat until the door stays in place.

Replacing garage door springs yourself can save you money, but it’s important to take safety precautions and follow the proper steps. If you’re not comfortable working with the springs or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to call a professional.