While you need a speed gauge to measure your car’s speed, you may overlook that it needs a speedometer wire to function. This cable connects your car transmission to the speedometer, helping you know your car’s speeds.
Here, we discuss the speedometer wire, its types, and how you can replace it when it is dysfunctional. I will also tell you how to know your speedometer cable is faulty, plus some maintenance tips you can use.
What Is a Speedometer Cable?
Before we can go to the speedometer cable, it’s only logical to know what a speedometer is. The speedometer is the device that shows your car’s real-time speed.
You usually find this device on your car’s dashboard and you can also call it a speed gauge or speed meter. Going to the speedometer cable, it’s a wire that connects your car’s speedometer to its transmission.
The cable usually features copper or aluminum construction with connectors and high-quality insulation. You connect one cable terminal to the speedometer and the other to the car transmission.
The cable converts your car wheels’ rotational motion into the speed you see on the speedometer.
A modern car speed gauge
Types of Speedometer Cables
Since there are many vehicle makes and models, you can expect the speedometer cable to appear in different types. However, the main ones that I recommend knowing are the electronic/ digital and mechanical speedometer cables.
Electronic ones use digital sensors to carry speed information to your speed gauge from the transmission. On the other hand, mechanical ones refer to those traditional cables with a metallic core inside an insulator casing.
All in all, both of these cables ensure accurate instant speed readings, which in turn ensures your vehicle’s performance.
Additionally, they help monitor your speed to comply with traffic regulations, thus ensuring your safety and that of road users.
How to Replace a Speedometer Cable
While replacing your car speedometer cable may be easy, it will depend on your car’s make and model. I recommend checking your vehicle manual or consulting a mechanic if you have any difficulties.
However, if you feel adventurous like me, use the following DIY steps to replace your speedometer cable:
Inspect your cable
Before you can think of replacing it, you’ve to be sure the cable is the one that has an issue. For this reason, you must inspect the entire cable length to ensure it’s smooth with no kinks or sharp bend. While here, check any bends within 50mm of any end, which might indicate a disconnect from the connector. Also, check if the connectors are the ones that need replacement instead of the entire cable. If the cable has an issue, remove it carefully, paying attention to any mounting brackets and connectors.
Gather materials and tools.
Here, you must buy another speedometer wire to replace the old one. Ensure it is of the correct gauge and size with the right connectors on both ends.
I recommend carrying your car details to the retail to ensure an exact match or have a custom cable designed.
In addition to the cable, you gather all the tools you need for a seamless installation. Some of the tools you may need are wrenches, pliers, and a screwdriver set.
Disconnecting and removing the old cable
Once you have all the tools ready and you’re sure the cable is faulty, it’s time to remove it. To do this, start with the transmission where the connection is.
When here, carefully use your wrenches to loosen any retainer nuts that secure the cable and then remove it. From there, locate the cable connection point at the back of the gauge, depending on your car, then remove it.
Remember you may need to use a screwdriver or bear hands to release and fasteners or clips securing the cable.
Lastly, in this step, pul the speedometer cable from its casing once you disconnect both ends. While here, you may need to note any bends or kinks you will follow when installing the new one.
Working on a car harness
Install the new cable and test
Now, put the new cable in the housing where the old one was. Ensure it follows the same path, including the bends and kinks you noted earlier.
From there, connect it to the transmission and the speedometer as it was. Ensure it’s snug, and use the correct fasteners to secure it.
Finally, drive your car to test the speedometer, noticing the accuracy of the reading and smooth movement of the pointer.
Vital Tips for Mentaining Speedometer Cables
Like any other part, the cable needs maintenance for longevity and optimum functionality. First, inspect your cable regularly for any disconnections, wear, or damage.
Then, always apply the cable lubricant to the speedometer cable to prevent friction and ensure smooth movement.
You might also want to avoid sharp bends during installation to prevent damage to inner wires. Lastly, keep the cable clean of moisture, dust, and debris to prevent corrosion and prolong its life.
Signs of a Faulty Speedometer Cable
As a rule, you must identify any speedometer cable issues to rectify them before it’s too late. The first sign you should note is an error speed reading or the pointer not moving.
You may also notice the needle moving sluggishly, sticky, or fluctuating. Another sign that your cable is faulty is abnormal speedometer noises or the speedometer not lighting or functioning.
When you see the above signs, I recommend addressing them instantly, lest you risk other problems and potential hazards.
A car cable with connectors
Conclusion
While you can use my research to install your speedometer cable, ensure you consult a professional if you encounter problems.
