How to Fix Your Garage Door Springs

How to Fix a Garage Door Problem

Dealing with a malfunctioning garage door can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to get your 2020 Chevrolet Corvette in or out. Garage doors are complex systems, and a problem with one component can affect the entire operation. As one owner shared, "Nice work on the floor and Great Looking new Garage! I will share the garage I built 30 years ago has one issue I wish I had fixed." (source). This guide will walk you through diagnosing and fixing common garage door issues.

Symptoms

Garage door problems can manifest in several ways. One of the first indicators is often unusual noises. A creaking or squealing sound may indicate worn or broken springs, hinges, or cables. Addressing these noises early can prevent more significant issues down the road.

Another symptom is difficulty in opening or closing the door. The door might struggle to move, stop mid-way, or require excessive force to operate. This could also be a sign of issues with the springs, which are essential for balancing the weight of the door.

Visible damage is another key sign of a garage door problem. Regularly inspect your garage door for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or fraying cables. These issues should be addressed promptly to avoid potential safety hazards.

Finally, keep an eye out for uneven movement. If one side of the door appears to move faster or slower than the other, it could indicate a problem with the springs or cables. This uneven movement can put additional stress on the other components and lead to further damage.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the most likely cause of garage door problems revolves around the springs. Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. Over time, these springs can wear out, break, or lose tension, leading to various operational issues.

The springs are under constant stress every time the garage door is used. This continuous strain eventually leads to fatigue and, potentially, failure. Factors like temperature fluctuations, humidity, and overall usage frequency can accelerate the wear and tear on the springs. Regular maintenance, including lubrication and visual inspections, can help prolong their lifespan.

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the door, while extension springs are located on either side of the door along the tracks. Both types serve the same purpose but require different maintenance and replacement procedures. Identifying the type of spring you have is crucial before attempting any repairs.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a garage door issue involves a systematic approach to identify the root cause. Before you begin, ensure the power to the garage door opener is turned off to prevent accidental activation during the inspection.

1. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the springs for any signs of damage, such as breaks, cracks, or excessive rust. Look closely at the ends of the springs, where breaks often occur. Also, examine the cables, hinges, and rollers for any visible wear or damage.

2. Balance Test: Disconnect the garage door opener by pulling the emergency release cord. Manually lift the door about halfway and then let go. The door should stay in place. If it slams shut or rises rapidly, the springs are likely out of balance and need adjustment or replacement.

3. Spring Tension Check: If you have torsion springs, measure the length of the springs when the door is closed. If one spring is significantly longer or shorter than the other, it indicates uneven tension and the need for adjustment or replacement.

4. Cable Inspection: Check the cables that run along the sides of the door for fraying, rust, or slack. Loose cables can cause the door to operate unevenly and can be a safety hazard.

5. Hardware Check: Inspect the hinges, rollers, and tracks for any signs of damage or misalignment. Tighten any loose bolts or screws. Lubricate the moving parts with a garage door lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Tools Needed:

• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Wrench set
• Screwdriver set
• Garage door lubricant
• Measuring tape

Step-by-Step Fix

Replacing or adjusting garage door springs can be dangerous and should only be attempted if you have experience with this type of repair. If you are uncomfortable performing the work yourself, it is best to hire a qualified professional.

1. Safety First: Before you begin, disconnect the power to the garage door opener and clamp the door in the open position using vice grips or C-clamps on the tracks. This will prevent the door from accidentally closing during the repair.

2. Release Spring Tension (Torsion Springs): Insert winding bars into the winding cone of the torsion spring. Loosen the set screws and carefully unwind the spring, counting the number of quarter turns. Repeat on the other spring. As one owner shared: "Still needed a longer hoist, his 1 ton wouldn't reach no matter which direction we tried. Any way, motor is out so we can assess everything and, at a minimum, get gaskets and seals replaced to remedy the leaks." (source).

3. Remove Old Springs: Once the tension is released, disconnect the springs from the center bracket and remove them from the torsion tube. For extension springs, disconnect them from the cables and safety cables.

4. Install New Springs: Install the new springs in the reverse order of removal. Ensure the springs are properly seated and aligned.

5. Wind the Springs (Torsion Springs): Insert the winding bars into the winding cone and wind the springs to the same number of quarter turns as before. Tighten the set screws securely.

6. Connect Cables: Reconnect the cables to the drums or pulleys. Ensure the cables are properly aligned and tensioned.

7. Test the Door: Remove the clamps and reconnect the power to the garage door opener. Test the door to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments to the spring tension or cable alignment.

8. Lubricate Moving Parts: Lubricate the springs, hinges, rollers, and tracks with a garage door lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Garage door springs (matching the size and type of your existing springs)
  • Torsion springs: Measure the wire size, inner diameter, and length
  • Extension springs: Measure the wire size, inner diameter, length, and weight capacity
• Winding bars (for torsion springs)
• Vice grips or C-clamps
• Wrench set
• Screwdriver set
• Garage door lubricant
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing a garage door problem can vary depending on the extent of the damage and whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional.

DIY Costs:

• Springs: $50 - $150 per pair
• Winding bars: $20 - $50
• Lubricant: $5 - $10
• Total DIY cost: $75 - $210

Professional Costs:

• Spring replacement: $200 - $400 (including labor)
• Cable replacement: $100 - $200 (including labor)
• Hinge replacement: $50 - $100 (including labor)

One owner reported saving approximately $200 by replacing the springs themselves, stating that the repair shop quoted them $350 for the job. Another owner mentioned that a professional cable replacement cost them $150, but they felt it was worth the peace of mind knowing it was done correctly. As one owner reported: "Since then it's been small random stuff but I've been able to move it, last thing was a cheapo BB gun I didn't want. Sold it to a guy for $20 that's beer money." ($20) (source).

Prevention

Preventing garage door problems involves regular maintenance and proactive measures.

1. Regular Inspections: Inspect the springs, cables, hinges, and rollers at least twice a year for signs of wear and tear.

2. Lubrication: Lubricate the moving parts of the garage door system with a garage door lubricant every three to six months. This includes the springs, hinges, rollers, and tracks.

3. Balance Test: Perform a balance test annually to ensure the springs are properly tensioned.

4. Hardware Check: Tighten any loose bolts or screws on the hinges, tracks, and brackets.

5. Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling a professional garage door maintenance service every one to two years. A technician can identify potential problems and make necessary adjustments to prevent future issues.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from CHEVROLET owners:

Owner Experiences

"Finished pulling the engine out after a two week hiatus so my friend whose garage I am using could take a vacation. Still needed a longer hoist, his 1 ton wouldn't reach no matter which direction we tried." — majorbob (source)

"It was a rainy and humid Florida August Saturday so it was a perfect blast furnace environment in the garage to work an electrical repair. I have a separate thread in the C5 Tech section that helped me identify a broken wire which turned out to be the AC Compressor connection harness." — MSG C5 (source)

"They have a pretty decent look to them and no jiggle. 😂. My 4eyeC5 kit has hid lows and led highs and the cutoffs really let you notice how worn out stuff gets in 25ish years." — Bpaschke (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "Nice work on the floor and Great Looking new Garage! I will share the garage I built 30 years ago has one issue I wish I had fixed." — Westlotorn (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Since then it's been small random stuff but I've been able to move it, last thing was a cheapo BB gun I didn't want. Sold it to a guy for $20 that's beer money." — the_merv (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a garage door spring?

A: Replacing garage door springs can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your experience level and the type of springs involved. If you are unfamiliar with the process, it is best to allow ample time or hire a professional.

Q: Can I drive with a broken garage door spring?

A: While you can technically drive your 2020 Chevrolet Corvette out of the garage with a broken spring if you can lift the door, it is not recommended. A broken spring can cause the door to operate unevenly and can be a safety hazard. It's best to repair the spring before using the garage door.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette?

A: Garage door problems are not specific to the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette but are common to all homes with garage doors. The springs are the most common component to fail due to their constant use and stress.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Garage door spring replacement can be dangerous due to the high tension involved. If you have experience with this type of repair and are comfortable working with tools, you can save money by doing it yourself. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable, it is best to hire a qualified professional. As one owner reported: "At my age the frequent trips to the bathroom have me looking for a way to add a facility in the garage. I don’t think that will get better as I age more .." (source).