Cables Transmission

What are transmission cables?

Transmission cables are flexible wires that connect the gear stick mechanism to the transmission gear changing mechanism. In a vehicle with manual transmission there are 2 cables. One cable provides forward and backward movement and the other cable provides left and right movement to the gear changing mechanism.

Vehicles with automatic transmission generally have 1 cable that provides only forward and backward movement to the gear change mechanism.

Transmission cables are also known as:

• Gear shift cables

• Gear selector cables

• Gear change cables

• Shifter cable

• Selector cable

What comes with replacement transmission cables?

Aftermarket makers of replacement transmission cables make them available in the same format that the the OE makers did. Sometimes the part is supplied as a single cable or supplied as a set of two cables. The stock image from the manufacturer will often show how these cables are supplied.

How do I choose the correct transmission cables?

Choosing the correct replacement cables is best done by comparing the original (OE) part number. Our website has an OE part number search function that will help you find the correct matching parts. If you are not able to obtain and compare the OE part number there are some factors to consider when searching for replacement cables:

• Number of gears (i.e. 5 speed or 6 speed etc)

• Manual or semi automatic or fully automatic transmission

• Transmission type / transmission code

• Vehicle manufacture date (this is not the date the vehicle was registered but the date it was made

• Engine number sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• VIN (chassis number) sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

What brand of transmission cable should I choose?

Transmission (gearbox) cables do not fail that often. As a result there are not very many aftermarket makers of them. Choice of brand is not a luxury that will likely be an option. The availability of the correct part will likely be the main consideration. If there is a choice of brand we would recommend the one with the longest warranty cover. Longer warranty cover is generally a good indication of quality.

How can I tell my transmission cables need replacing?

Some of the symptoms of faulty transmission cables are quite easy to detect. If however you are not sure then we would always recommend that you have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to receive an accurate diagnosis of any fault.

Some of the symptoms of faulty or broken transmission cables are:

• Grinding gears

• Gear stick does not return to neutral position

• It is much harder to change gear

• Transmission is stuck in gear (will not shift)

• Gear change does not feel smooth