How to open garage door when cable snapped?

To open garage door when cable snapped, which often happens together with spring failure or due to wear, you need to do so manually with extreme caution because door will be crooked, heavy, and unstable, and opener should not be used. First, disconnect garage door opener by pulling the red emergency release cord hanging from trolley to prevent opener from trying to lift uneven door and causing further damage. Since cable snapped, door may be jammed or off track on one side, so inspect tracks for obstruction and do not force door if severely off track, as forcing can bend panels. If door is closed and you need to get car out, you will need at least two people to lift door, as without cable and possibly without spring tension, door weight is 150 to 300 pounds and will be uneven, with one side heavier. Lift slowly and evenly from bottom, keeping door level to avoid further derailment, and have helper support side where cable snapped. Once open, you must prop door securely with locking pliers or clamps on tracks and ladder underneath, as door will not stay open and can fall, especially with broken cable. Do not leave door open unattended. If door cannot be lifted due to being off track or cable tangled in rollers, call professional garage door company for emergency service, as handling high tension springs and cables is dangerous. Replacement of cables plus springs typically costs 250 to 600 dollars professionally.