Speedometer Cable Replacement

Be it a car or a motorbike, every vehicle has a device known as the speedometer. Although the speedometer has nothing to do with how fast your vehicle can go, it is an important device, that measures the traveling speed of your vehicle. It gives you a basic idea for maintaining a sensible pace. Imagine driving without a speedometer! You would always be at risk exceeding the speed limit, whenever you drive. Speedometer not working properly can get you in serious trouble. The most common problem associated with the speedometer is with its cable. But the good news is that speedometer cable repair is fairly simple and it can be fixed easily. You can take your vehicle to a mechanic or fix the problem yourself.

How to Replace a Speedometer Cable?

Replacing the cable is not all that difficult! It requires simple tools like the screwdriver and a wrench and some basic mechanical knowledge.

Step 1: The first steps involves removal of the old cable. Take off the engine cover carefully. Remove the bolt below the dashboard. This will loosen the steering column. Now, carefully let down the steering column and you will be able to see the back of the speedometer.

Step 2: Locate the black cable housing that meets the transmission. Break and loosen the driver shaft nut and the 'O' ring and drive the speedometer wire through the firewall. The cable is held in place at the transmission by a large clamp or screw on type connector. Some may have plastic latches to keep the wire in place.

Step 3: Unscrew the connector with the help of a wrench or a pair of pliers. Get rid of the screw or release the latch to loosen the connection. Once it is disconnected, pull out the cable from the engine side, with the help of needle loose pliers. Your old speedometer cable has been removed and now is the time for installing a brand new cable!

Step 4: Replacement of speedometer wire is just the reverse of the removal process. Make sure you get a cable that fits your vehicle. The best thing to do would be to take the old cable along while purchasing the new one, so that you can match it up.

Step 5: The new speedometer cable has square ends that correspond to the fitting in the speedometer adapter. Place one square end of the cable into the adapter and screw the retainer by securing the driver shaft nut. But do not attach the cable permanently until its routed and attached to the housing.

Step 6: Now, pull the new speedometer cable back through the firewall. Secure the 'O' ring that was loosened for removing the cable. Attach the cable to the back of the speedometer by engaging it in the square hold. Secure the driver shaft nut and make sure that it is tight enough.

Step 7: Replace the connectors or clamps so that the cable is held in the right position in the engine compartment, onto the transmission. Replace the engine cover properly and you are ready to test drive your car.

Step 8: Take your car for a slow drive to ensure that the speedometer is working properly and the needle is not wriggling anymore!

This was all about speedometer cable replacement. Wasn't it simple? So, the next time you find your speedometer needle jerking too much, just get the right tools and start off! Best of luck!