Your garage door system relies on several key components to function smoothly and garage door cables are among the most important. These strong steel cables work alongside the springs to lift and lower your garage door safely and evenly. When they become worn, frayed, or broken, the result can be anything from a door that won’t open to a serious safety hazard. AAA Action Garage Doors will share some of the most common signs of broken or frayed garage door cables, why they matter, and what you should do if you suspect a problem.
Why Garage Door Cables Matter
Garage door cables are designed to support the weight of the door as it opens and closes. The cables also keep the door aligned and balanced and prevent sudden crashes if a spring breaks. Because of their high-tension job and constant movement, these cables can weaken over time. Ignoring a damaged cable can lead to uneven operation, further damage to other parts, or even a total garage door failure.
Visible Fraying or Rust on the Cables
One of the easiest ways to tell if your garage door cables are failing is by visually inspecting them. If you see:
• Strands of the cable sticking out.
• Rust spots or corrosion.
• A cable that looks thinner or worn in one area.
Any of these signs it is time to call a professional. Frayed or corroded cables are on the verge of breaking and should be replaced immediately to prevent dangerous malfunctions.
Slack or Loose Cables
Garage door cables should be tight and under proper tension. If you notice the cables are:
• Hanging loosely from the sides.
• Dangling off the drum.
• Slapping or rubbing against other parts.
This usually means they’ve either come off the drum or one of the springs has broken. Either way, operating the door in this condition is unsafe.
Garage Door is Uneven or Crooked
If one cable breaks while the other is still working, your garage door may:
• Appear crooked or slanted when opening or closing.
• Move unevenly or jerk as it operates.
• Leave a gap under one side when closed.
This is a major red flag. An uneven garage door not only looks bad it places stress on the tracks, rollers, and opener, which can lead to even more damage.
Garage Door Doesn’t Open or Close Properly
A broken or frayed cable can prevent your garage door from:
• Opening all the way
• Closing fully
• Moving at all
The system depends on both cables working in tandem. If one fails, the door may get stuck or only operate halfway before stopping.
What to Do if You Suspect a Cable Problem
If you notice any of the signs stop using the garage door to avoid injury or further damage. Disconnect the opener using the emergency release cord if needed. Do not attempt a DIY repair. Garage door cables are under high tension and can snap violently if handled improperly. Call a licensed garage door technician right away for inspection and safe replacement.
Garage Door Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
Frayed or broken garage door cables are not just a nuisance they are a serious safety issue. Think your garage door cables might be damaged? Contact AAA Action Garage Doors and schedule our services today.
