In order to translate wheel speed to a readout on your speedo, you have a speedometer cable. This cable takes your wheel speed and tells the gauge on your dashboard what to read out. If it starts to play up, rather than getting a speeding ticket, get the speedometer cable fixed. It works out to be much cheaper.

What is a speedometer cable?

Your speedo cable takes a reading from the magnetic field that is generated by the spinning gear and converts it into a precise signal as to speed. As it is created by a current the speedometer is updated constantly.

Why do you need a speedometer cable?

It’s important to know how fast you’re going when you’re driving around. Your speedometer is what tells you this information. If it starts to play up you may be driving too slow, or worse, too fast. This can lead to tickets and a lot more costs than what it will set you back for a new cable.

How to tell if you need a new speedometer cable

If the speedometer doesn’t move at all then the cable may be broken. If it is clearly showing the wrong speed or is very slow to change then that’s another key indication. If you believe that the speed shown is wrong or a light comes on the dashboard then the cable may need adjusting or replacing. 

What’s involved in getting a speedometer cable replaced?

The mechanic will remove the speedometer cable from the back of the instrument cluster and then trace it down underneath the car. After the cable is disconnected, the mechanic will inspect the ring gear in the transmission and make sure it was just the cable at fault. The new speedo cable will be connected to the transmission and routed back to the instrument cluster and connected to the speedometer. They will then start the car and get the wheel speed up to a known limit and make sure it’s calibrated properly. 

How much does a speedometer cable replacement cost near Nelson Bays?

They are a pretty common cable to have replaced. Generally prices won’t get above $450 without reason.

How often do I need a speedometer cable replaced?

Generally speedometer cables don’t break often. Sometimes with new tyres they’ll need adjustment but for them to need a full replacement is not something to be expected.

Is a broken speedometer cable unsafe?

It can lead to you speeding and that’s not safe for anyone. It can also lead to speeding tickets that you’ll want to avoid. If you need a new cable then get it replaced and save yourself the hassle.

You can find a mechanic near Nelson Bays with My Auto Shop