Replacing a tension spring on a garage door typically costs between $150 and $350 for a single spring, or $300 to $700 for a full double-spring replacement, including parts and labor. For a DIY approach, parts alone cost about $30 to $150, though high-tension springs are extremely dangerous and professional installation is recommended.
A garage door can still open if the spring is broken, but it takes a bit of manual effort. Trying to open it automatically with the opener could strain the motor or burn it out since the broken spring makes the door heavier to lift. We recommend not trying to open your garage door if it has a broken spring.
The average garage door spring lifespan is seven to 10 years or approximately 10,000 opening and closing cycles. You can maximize the lifespan of your spring with regular maintenance. The lifetime also varies by spring type and quality.
No two garage doors are exactly alike, which is why spring repair pricing can differ from one home to another. Factors such as door weight, spring type, and installation complexity all play a role. Local labor rates, service availability, and the urgency of the repair also influence cost.
Replacing garage door springs is not recommended for beginners. While extension springs are somewhat manageable, torsion springs (the ones mounted on a bar above the door) are under immense tension and can cause severe injury or property damage if handled improperly. Many professionals strongly advise hiring a local repair technician.
No, you should not use standard WD-40 on garage door springs. Standard WD-40 is a water displacer and degreaser, not a lubricant. It will wash away existing grease, cause the springs to dry out, and can even attract dust and dirt.
Natural Wear and Tear
A single cycle is one full opening and closing of the garage door. If you use your garage door multiple times a day, the springs may wear out faster. Over time, the metal fatigues, leading to eventual breakage.
Is it worth repairing a 20-year-old garage door opener? Generally, it's not. Garage door openers typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. A new opener is often a better purchase because it comes with updated safety features and runs more quietly.
To tell if your garage door springs are bad or broken, look for a sudden loud bang in the garage, a visible gap (2-3 inches) in the spring coils, or loose and dangling cables. You can also perform a balance test by manually lifting the door halfway; if it slams shut, the springs have failed.
Does home insurance cover garage door springs? Whether home insurance covers garage door springs depends on your policy and how the spring was damaged. If your policy covers your garage and the spring breaks due to a covered peril, it should cover garage spring repair.
You'll be able to tell your coil spring is broken by:
Yes, you can manually open a garage door with a broken spring, but it is extremely dangerous and requires significant physical effort. A standard garage door weighs between 100 to 350+ pounds, and the springs are specifically designed to bear that weight.
Opening a garage door with a broken torsion spring is dangerous because the heavy door (100–300+ lbs) is no longer counterbalanced. Do not use the automatic opener, as this can strip the gears or burn out the motor. The safest method is to manually lift the door with two people and clamp it open.
If your garage door isn't opening or closing properly, you may need to replace the door's springs. Garage door spring replacement costs $250 on average, with prices often ranging from $150 to $350 or more.
Torsion springs generally last longer are considered safer, but often more expensive than their extension counterparts. Extension springs, on the other hand, run parallel to the garage floor and are attached to the rear track hanger. These springs store energy by stretching as the door lowers.
Garage door openers typically last between 10 to 15 years. With excellent maintenance and lighter usage, some high-quality models can reach 20 years. Several key factors determine how long your unit will last:
If the repair doesn't exceed $300: A repair will save you money now, but you'll want to be sure that it is, in fact, the most cost-effective choice. A repair that is $150-$300 is worth it, but anything more should probably result in a new opener.
The best garage door opener brand depends on your priorities. For smart home integration and DIY installation, Chamberlain is the overall top choice. For ultimate reliability, quiet operation, and heavy-duty power, Genie is a top competitor. For professional-grade, premium security, LiftMaster is the industry standard.
No, you should not use standard WD-40 on garage door springs. Standard WD-40 is a water displacer and degreaser, not a lubricant. It will wash away existing grease, cause the springs to dry out, and can even attract dust and dirt.
Average Cost of Garage Door Spring Replacement
The average cost to replace a garage door spring runs $150 to $350 per spring, including labor. If your garage door has two springs, you can usually expect to pay $300 to $700 total. Garage door spring replacement is one of the most common garage door repairs.
Yes, you can manually open a garage door with one broken spring, but it is extremely heavy (100–150+ lbs) and dangerous. Never use the automatic opener, as this can strip the gears or burn out the motor.
Neither is "better" because they are designed for completely different purposes. Use 3-in-1 Oil when you need long-term lubrication. Use WD-40 when you need to clean, displace water, or free up stuck and rusted parts.
WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease is known for its long-lasting lubrication and protection against rust and corrosion. It's particularly effective in reducing friction on metal parts, making it a popular choice for garage doors.