Quick answer
If a garage door cable has come off or snapped, stop using the door and the opener, keep people and cars clear, and call a garage door technician. The cables carry the door's weight under spring tension, so a door with a loose or broken cable can hang crooked, jam, or drop suddenly. Don't try to rewind the cable or force the door.
Signs a cable has come off
- The door hangs crooked or one side is lower than the other
- A cable is dangling or wrapped loosely around the drum at the top corner
- The door jams partway or makes a loud bang
- Rollers have popped out of the track on one side
Why it happens
- A broken spring. When a spring breaks, the cable loses tension and can slip off the drum.
- The door hit something. If the door comes down on a bike, bin or car bumper, the cable on one side goes slack.
- Worn cables or drums. Fraying, rust or a worn drum groove lets the cable slip.
- Track problems. A bent track or a door that's come off track pulls the cable out of line.
What to do right now
- Unplug the opener or stop pressing the button.
- Leave the door where it is if it's stuck partway.
- Keep kids, pets and vehicles away from it.
- Call (816) 301-5209. Emergency service is available 24/7.
Can a frayed cable be repaired?
No. Frayed or snapped cables are replaced, not spliced. We replace them in pairs so both sides lift evenly, check the drums and springs, and rebalance the door before we leave.
Need help with your door?
Call (816) 301-5209 for 24/7 emergency service, or request a free written estimate.