How to Replace a Broken Acoustic Guitar String: A Beginner's Guide

Updated at: 24/02/2025

The satisfying strum of an acoustic guitar can be instantly silenced by the dreaded "twang" of a broken string. It's a frustrating experience, especially for beginners who might feel intimidated by the prospect of fixing it themselves. Fortunately, replacing a broken acoustic guitar string is a straightforward process that can be mastered with a little patience and the right tools. Learning this simple repair will save you time and money, and empower you to get back to playing your music quickly. It's far easier than you might think!

This beginner's guide will walk you through each step, from identifying the broken string to tuning your guitar once the replacement is complete. We'll cover essential tools you’ll need and provide clear instructions to ensure a smooth and successful string change. Let's dive into the step-by-step process and get your guitar back in action!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always tune your guitar down to slack before changing strings to reduce tension and prevent damage to the neck.
  • Use proper string winders to prevent slippage and ensure accurate winding, avoiding breakage.
  • Be gentle when handling the guitar neck and tuning pegs to avoid any damage. Avoid excessive force.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Identify the Broken String

    • Identify the broken string and its gauge. Pause the video at to check the string gauges and determine which one you need to replace.
    Identify the broken string and its gauge. Pause the video at [121.439] to check the string gauges and determine which one you need to replace.
    Identify the Broken String

  2. Remove the Broken String

    • Unwind the broken string from the tuning peg () and remove it completely from the guitar (). If necessary, use pliers or wire cutters to remove the tuning peg ().
    Unwind the broken string from the tuning peg ([178.4]) and remove it completely from the guitar ([195.68]). If necessary, use pliers or wire cutters to remove the tuning peg ([204.08]).
    Remove the Broken String

  3. Prepare the New String

    • Take the new string and slightly bend the ball end (). This prevents the string from slipping off the tuning peg and potentially causing injury.
    Take the new string and slightly bend the ball end ([248.48]). This prevents the string from slipping off the tuning peg and potentially causing injury.
    Prepare the New String

  4. Install the New String

    • Insert the new string through the hole in the bridge pin () and thread it through the nut groove ().
    • Insert the string into the tuning peg, ensuring it sits correctly in the groove (, ). Wind the string onto the tuning peg in the correct direction. For most guitars, left-hand pegs are wound counterclockwise and right-hand pegs clockwise (, ). Wind the string a few times to secure it ().
    Insert the string into the tuning peg, ensuring it sits correctly in the groove ([309.84], [312.72]). Wind the string onto the tuning peg in the correct direction. For most guitars, left-hand pegs are wound counterclockwise and right-hand pegs clockwise ([325.759], [346.72]). Wind the string a few times to secure it ([424.08]).Insert the string into the tuning peg, ensuring it sits correctly in the groove ([309.84], [312.72]). Wind the string onto the tuning peg in the correct direction. For most guitars, left-hand pegs are wound counterclockwise and right-hand pegs clockwise ([325.759], [346.72]). Wind the string a few times to secure it ([424.08]).
    Install the New String

  5. Tune the New String

    • Tune the string using a tuner (). Don't over-tighten to avoid breaking the string ().
    Tune the string using a tuner ([567.2]). Don't over-tighten to avoid breaking the string ([571.12]).
    Tune the New String

  6. Replace Additional Strings (Optional)

    • Repeat steps 2-6 for any other broken strings or to replace the entire set ().
    Repeat steps 2-6 for any other broken strings or to replace the entire set ([575.36]).
    Replace Additional Strings (Optional)

  7. Trim Excess String

    • Trim excess string ().
    Trim excess string ([836.8]).
    Trim Excess String

  8. Final Tuning and Settling

    • Tune the guitar. Allow the strings to settle and stretch for a day or two; they may go out of tune initially ().
    Tune the guitar. Allow the strings to settle and stretch for a day or two; they may go out of tune initially ([861.36]).
    Final Tuning and Settling

Read more: Revitalize Your Guitar Strings: A Quick & Easy Cleaning Guide

Tips

  • Consider replacing the entire set of strings if they are old or worn ().
  • Use selotape to keep track of the bridge pins and their order ().
  • Don't cut the excess string too short initially to allow for slippage ().
  • Keep the string packaging; it contains information about the string gauges ().

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Cutting the String Too Short

Reason: Leaving insufficient string length for winding around the tuning peg can lead to the string slipping and going out of tune frequently.
Solution: Ensure you leave at least 2-3 inches of extra string beyond the tuning peg for secure winding.

2. Over-Tightening the String

Reason: Excessive tension can snap the new string, damage the tuning pegs, or break the bridge.
Solution: Tune the string gradually and use a tuner to ensure you are within the correct pitch range.

FAQs

What tools do I need to replace a guitar string?
You'll primarily need a new guitar string (matching the gauge of the broken one), wire cutters or string winders (optional, but helpful), and a tuner. Some people also find it useful to have a guitar string winder to speed up the process.