A transmission shift cable connects the gear shifter to the transmission, allowing you to change gears in a vehicle.
But if you’re struggling to change gears or find yourself stuck in a single gear, you might have a broken shift cable. And you need to get a replacement ASAP.
Read on to discover the replacement costs and the steps involved in replacing a broken shift cable. We’ll also explore signs of a failing shift cable to help you spot one before it’s too late.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does Transmission Shift Cable Replacement Cost?
- How to Perform Transmission Shift Cable Replacement: Step-by-Step
- 4 FAQs on Transmission Shift Cables
How Much Does Transmission Shift Cable Replacement Cost?
Replacing a transmission or trans shift cable can cost anywhere between $150 to $500. The cable itself may cost around $50 to $200, with labor adding another $171 to $216 to the expense.
The actual costs may vary a little bit based on your car’s make and model, the labor rates at the local repair shop. It also depends on whether you opt for original manufacturer parts or aftermarket alternatives.
Wondering why shift cable replacement is so expensive?
Let’s break down the replacement process to find out why.
How to Perform Transmission Shift Cable Replacement: Step-by-Step
Transmission shift cable replacement requires you to access and dismantle critical car parts, like the center console, which can be tricky and time-consuming. That’s why you should get technical support from a professional mechanic.
Here’s how a mechanic will replace a broken cable.
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle for Safety
Before starting the replacement, the mechanic will park your car on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and position the gear shift lever to park.
Then, they’ll turn off the ignition and disconnect the car battery to prevent electrical mishaps.
Step 2: Locate the Shift Cable
The mechanic will locate your shift cable. Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, the shift cable may be found under the hood, inside the cabin, or underneath the car.
They may refer to your car’s manual to find its exact location.
Step 3: Remove the Center Console to Access the Shift Mechanism
If the shift cable is located inside the cabin, they’ll remove the center console (area between the two front seats). This provides easy access to the shifter assembly, where the cable connects to the shift mechanism.
They’ll disconnect the wires, remove clips holding the shift cable in place, and use a flat-head screwdriver to detach the wire connectors. Then, they’ll locate and disconnect the cable end attached to the shift mechanism.
Note: In older vehicles equipped with a steering column shift lever, the mechanic won’t remove the center console. Instead, they’ll dismantle the steering column to access the shift shaft.
Step 4: Disconnect the Shift Cable from the Transmission Cable Bracket
The mechanic will lift your car using jack stands to reach the shift linkage (components that connect the gear shift lever to the transmission) underneath the vehicle.
Using a wrench or pliers, they’ll detach the fasteners and brackets securing the cable to the transmission. Then, they’ll disconnect the cable end from the shift linkage.
Note: If the cable is under the hood, the mechanic may remove your battery or battery tray to access areas where the shifter cables enter the engine bay or transmission area.
Step 5: Remove the Old Shift Cable
They’ll trace the path of the old cable and remove any bolt or cable bracket securing it to the vehicle’s body. They’ll then gently pull the entire cable assembly out from the car.
Step 6: Install the New Transmission Shift Cable
The mechanic will position the new cable along its original route to avoid twists or kinks. They’ll secure it in place with a bolt, clip, or bushing and install the rubber grommet to protect the cable from debris and wear.
Next, they’ll ensure the new cable is securely connected and seated at both ends of the shifter assembly.
Step 7: Test the New Shift Cable
Before reassembling the parts, the mechanic will inspect the entire cable assembly to check if all wire connections are secure.
They’ll use the gear shift lever to cycle through all gears, ensuring smooth transmission engagement and free operation of the shift lever. If any issues arise, they’ll take troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem.
Step 8: Reassemble the Interior Components
Next, they’ll carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands. They’ll reattach and secure all components, such as the console, mounting brackets, and clips, along with the battery and battery tray (if removed).
Finally, the mechanic will reconnect the car’s battery, release the parking brake, and take your vehicle for a test drive.
Have more questions about transmission shift cables?
Check out these FAQs.
4 FAQs on Transmission Shift Cables
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about transmission shift cables:
1. How Do I Know if My Transmission Shift Cable Needs Replacement?
Some warning signs that indicate a transmission shift cable failure include:
- Trouble shifting gears
- Loose or sloppy gear shifter
- Inability to engage certain gears
- Gear indicator mismatch
- Unusual grinding or scraping noises while shifting gears
2. What Causes the Transmission Shift Cable to Break?
Shifter cables can break due to various factors, including:
- Inadequate lubrication or worn-out bushings
- Any aftermarket modifications in transmission
- Overstretching of the cable
- Regular wear and tear from continuous use
- Improper cable adjustment
- Accumulation of debris in the cable housing due to worn rubber grommet
3. Is it Safe to Drive with a Broken Transmission Shift Cable?
No, driving with a broken cable is extremely dangerous and isn’t recommended.
If the trans shifter cable breaks, your transmission won’t shift gears correctly. This can leave you stuck in park, and your vehicle may roll away.
Your car could also get stuck in a specific gear selector position. For instance, if your gear gets stuck in reverse gear, it’ll only move backward and even lead to potential accidents.
4. How Long Does a Transmission Shift Cable Last?
Good-quality shift cables in manual or automatic transmission cars can last 125,000 to 175,000 miles, depending on your vehicle’s type and usage. They may wear out sooner in manual transmission vehicles, where the shift stick is moved more often.
However, if the cables are of poor quality, excessively bent, or exposed to water, they might only last 75,000 miles.
To ensure your shift cables work correctly, consider getting regular maintenance services like cable adjustment, lubrication, and cleaning of the cable housing. Also, make sure to use high-quality cables during modifications for improved durability.
Gear Up for a Smooth Ride with AutoNation Mobile Service
A transmission shift cable in good condition offers a safe driving experience with smooth gear shifting. However, if damaged (even a little bit), you may have trouble engaging the gears. So, if you observe any signs of a failing shifter cable, it’s crucial to replace it immediately.
And if you can’t drive to a repair shop due to gear shifting issues, let AutoNation Mobile Service mechanics come to you.
We’re a mobile car repair and maintenance solution that offers upfront pricing, convenient online booking, stellar customer service, and a 12-month, 12,000-mile repair warranty.
Contact us for technical support and our mechanics will address any transmission-related problem right from your driveway.