How much does it cost to fix a broken garage door cable?

How much it costs to fix a broken garage door cable depends on whether you replace cables only or also need spring or drum repair, and whether you hire professional, which is strongly recommended. For professional repair, replacing a pair of garage door cables typically costs 100 to 250 dollars total, including parts and labor, with single cable replacement costing 75 to 200 dollars. Cable parts themselves are inexpensive, costing 15 to 40 dollars per pair for galvanized aircraft-grade cables at home improvement stores, but labor and service call fee of 75 to 150 dollars make up most of cost because cables are under high tension from springs and require safe handling. If cable broke because spring also broke, which is common, you will need spring replacement too, bringing total cost to 250 to 600 dollars for springs plus cables together, as technician will replace both springs and cables and rebalance door. If drums are damaged from cable falling off, drum replacement adds 50 to 100 dollars per drum. Emergency or same-day service adds 50 to 100 dollars. DIY cable replacement costs only parts plus winding bars costing 20 to 40 dollars, but is dangerous because springs are under tension and incorrect installation can cause door to fall and cause injury. Getting multiple estimates from reputable garage door companies ensures fair pricing and that correct length cable is used for door height. Properly installed cables last as long as springs, 7 to 12 years.