Car Transmission Cable: A Comprehensive Guide
What is a Car Transmission Cable?
A car transmission cable is a mechanical component that connects the transmission shift lever to the transmission itself. It allows the driver to shift gears by activating the appropriate gear selector inside the transmission.
Types of Transmission Cables
There are two main types of transmission cables:
- Manual transmission cables are used in vehicles with manual transmissions. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and are routed through the firewall or floorboard to connect the shift lever to the transmission.
- Automatic transmission cables are used in vehicles with automatic transmissions. They are typically made of nylon or other synthetic materials and are routed through the dashboard or center console to connect the shift lever to the transmission.
Function of Transmission Cables
The function of a transmission cable is to transmit the driver’s shift input from the shift lever to the transmission. This is accomplished by activating the appropriate gear selector inside the transmission. When the driver moves the shift lever, the cable moves the gear selector, which in turn moves the transmission gears into the desired position.
Symptoms of a Bad Transmission Cable
If the transmission cable is damaged or worn out, it can cause a number of problems, including:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Noisy shifting
- Transmission slipping out of gear
- Check engine light illuminated
How to Replace a Transmission Cable
Replacing a transmission cable is a relatively simple job that can be completed in about an hour. The following steps will guide you through the process:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Locate the transmission cable. It is typically routed through the firewall or floorboard to connect the shift lever to the transmission.
- Disconnect the cable from the shift lever and the transmission.
- Install the new cable in the reverse order of removal.
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Test the new cable by shifting gears and making sure that the transmission is operating properly.
Cost of Replacing a Transmission Cable
The cost of replacing a transmission cable varies depending on the type of vehicle and the cost of parts and labor in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for the job.
Conclusion
A car transmission cable is an important component that allows the driver to shift gears. If the cable is damaged or worn out, it can cause a number of problems, including difficulty shifting gears, noisy shifting, and transmission slipping out of gear. Replacing a transmission cable is a relatively simple job that can be completed in about an hour.
