How Long Do Garage Door Springs and Cables Last?
Not Sure When to Replace Your Garage Door Springs or Cables? Here’s What You Need to Know
Garage doors rely on a tightly balanced system of springs and cables to open and close smoothly. But like any mechanical parts under stress, they don’t last forever. The trick is knowing when wear turns into risk — before your door jams, drops, or refuses to open at all.
In this guide, we’ll explain how long garage door springs and cables typically last, how to spot early warning signs, and when to call a Vaughan-based technician for replacement.
Average Lifespan of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs handle the heavy lifting — literally. They counterbalance the full weight of your garage door so the opener motor doesn’t burn out.
Average cable lifespan: 8 to 15 years, depending on use and maintenance.
How long do they last?
Torsion springs
7 to 12 years or 10,000–20,000 cycles
Extension springs
5 to 10 years or 10,000 cycles
Factors that reduce lifespan:
Cold winters in Vaughan
Rust or corrosion from humidity
Lack of lubrication or misalignment
Using the wrong size or weight class of spring
Warning signs:
Visible fraying or rust
Loose cables hanging from the side
Uneven door movement or loud grinding noises
Door slams shut or feels “off balance”
If one cable breaks, the door can become crooked or jammed. Always replace both cables together.
Can Springs and Cables Be Repaired?
No — springs and cables are replacement-only components. Once they’re damaged, they can’t be safely or effectively repaired.
Also important: These parts are under extreme tension. Do not attempt DIY replacements. A spring or cable snapping during removal can cause serious injury.
When Should You Replace Springs and Cables?
Replace your springs and cables if:
- The door feels heavy or won’t stay open
- One side of the door lifts higher than the other
- You hear a loud bang from the garage
- The opener strains or won’t lift the door
- You spot fraying, rust, or gaps in the spring coils
If your system is 8+ years old and showing symptoms, it’s better to schedule service before it breaks.
How to Make Your Springs and Cables Last Longer
|
Maintenance Tip |
Why It Helps |
|
Lubricate springs 2–3 times/year |
Reduces metal-on-metal stress |
|
Schedule annual tune-ups |
Catches wear before it becomes failure |
|
Keep moisture out of the garage |
Prevents rust on metal parts |
|
Don’t ignore squeaks or jerks |
Small signs = early warnings |
Lopes Door Systems Inc. offers affordable tune-ups in Vaughan that include spring tension checks and cable inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when a spring breaks?
You’ll usually hear a loud bang. The door may become too heavy to lift, or it might slam shut without warning.
Should I replace both springs or cables at once?
Yes. Even if only one is damaged, the other is close to the end of its lifespan too. Replacing both ensures balanced operation.
Are there high-cycle springs available?
Yes. You can upgrade to springs rated for 20,000+ cycles if your garage door is in frequent use.
Can I still use my garage door with a broken cable?
No. Using the door could cause it to go off-track or collapse. Call for same-day repair service.
Know the Lifespan, Avoid the Headache
Garage door springs and cables are tough — but they don’t last forever. In most homes, they’ll need replacement every 7 to 12 years depending on use, climate, and maintenance. Stay alert to the signs of wear, and don’t wait for something to snap.
📞 Call us at +1 647-494-5222 or Book Online today to keep your garage door running safely for years to come.