Is your speedometer acting weird lately? It must be time for replacing its cable. Find out how to do that from this article.
A damaged speedometer can get you a lot of speeding tickets. The most common problem associated with the speedometer is with its cable. But the good news is that it can be repaired easily. You can either fix the problem yourself or take the help of a mechanic.
Replacing a Speedometer Cable
Replacing the cable is not that difficult. It requires simple tools like the screwdriver and a wrench, and some basic mechanical knowledge.
Step 1
The first step involves removing the old cable. Take off the engine cover carefully. Remove the bolt below the dashboard. This will loosen the steering column. Now, carefully lower 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 the 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-nose pliers. You can install a new cable now.
Step 4
Make sure you get a cable that fits in your vehicle. The best thing to do would be to take the old cable along with you while purchasing the new one to get the cable of correct size.
Step 5
The new speedometer cable will have 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. Do not attach the cable permanently until it is 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. Install the engine cover properly.
Step 8
Take your car for a slow drive to ensure that the speedometer is working properly.
