Two batches of cracked 50CrVA springs are analyzed by means of fracture analysis， chemical composition analysis， microstructure analysis and hardness test. The fracture mode and mechanism are revealed as well as the effective improvement measures. The results indicate that the fracture mode of the two batches of springs are both delayed brittle fracture. The fracture mechanism of the first batch is attributed tohydrogen embrittlement. The risk of hydrogen embrittlement can be reduced by increasing the tempering temperature and reducing the pickling time. The fracture mechanism of the second batch of springs is cadmium embrittlement. Zinc plating process can be used to enhance the heat resistance temperature of the springs coating and decrease the risk of embrittlement caused by low melting point metal.