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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a speedometer cable and housing?
Where can I get my speedometer cable and housing replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my speedometer cable and housing?
What happens if I don’t replace my speedometer cable and housing?
What is a speedometer cable and housing?
Can I replace my speedometer cable and housing myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a speedometer cable and housing?

$60 to $130 is the average speedometer cable and housing replacement cost. Keep in mind that prices will fluctuate depending on your specific model and the labor prices in your area.

How long does it take to replace a speedometer cable and housing? The typical service time for this service is about .5 hours for a certified mechanic. Expect an initial assessment followed by the actual replacement service.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my speedometer cable and housing replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Here are three key parts you’ll need and the price you can expect to pay when performing a speedometer cable and housing replacement:

Speedometer Cable: This is the cable that connects the transmission to the speedometer gauge on the dashboard. It costs between $15 and $50 for most models.

Speedometer Cable Clip: This is a small clip that secures the cable to the vehicle's body or chassis. It costs between $5 to $20 in most cases.

Speedometer Cable Housing: This is the protective outer casing that covers and secures the speedometer cable. It costs between $5 and $30 to replace.

We recommend purchasing parts at local auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. We also recommend reputable brands such as Dorman, ACDelco, and ATP Automotive for speedometer housing and cable components. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Before you buy any parts, check your owner's manual for a complete list of parts and part numbers.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the vehicle's manufacturer and ensure a precise fit and quality, but they can be more expensive. Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers, offering a more affordable option, but their quality and fit may vary.

If you prioritize exact fit and you want a quality speedometer, go for OEM. If you want to save money and are comfortable with some variability, aftermarket parts could be suitable.

Where can I buy parts for my speedometer cable and housing replacement?

Authorized dealerships and auto parts stores often offer OEM replacement speedometer cables, ensuring quality and compatibility. Online retailers and marketplaces offer both OEM and aftermarket options, providing a wide range of choices and competitive prices. Additionally, specialty auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone and O'Reilly Auto Parts, online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto or salvage yards may have used or refurbished parts available.

Be sure to check the specifications and reviews when purchasing online and verify that the parts are compatible with your vehicle's make and model.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my speedometer cable and housing replaced?

Many drivers do not have a trusted mechanic to call upon for repairs. But Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can help you find a reputable repair shop for your speedometer cable and housing replacement.

Avoid uncertainty and hidden fees with car repairs— Jerry's GarageGuard™ delivers fair price estimates, complete with real hourly labor rates and authentic reviews.

Explore vetted shops below and compare car repair quotes in your local area.

190 Reviews

LBR Auto Repair

13030 Bel-Red Rd, Bellevue, WA

Speedometer Cable And Housing Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$101

(Parts - $67, Labor - $34)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$159

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (425) 453-1687

176 Reviews

Kenny and Billy's Auto Center

473 Iselin, NJ

Speedometer Cable And Housing Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$100

(Parts - $67, Labor - $33)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$130

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (732) 283-2767

186 Reviews

Oak Street Station

2403 US HWY 18 INWOOD, Inwood, IA

Speedometer Cable And Housing Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$88

(Parts - $67, Labor - $21)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$30

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (712) 753-4800

146 Reviews

Northtown Auto Clinic

2235 Taney St, Kansas City, MO

Speedometer Cable And Housing Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$103

(Parts - $67, Labor - $36)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$80

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (816) 842-1777

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my speedometer cable and housing?

Here are the steps a mechanic may follow during a speedometer cable and housing replacement:

Prepare the vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake for safety. You may need to use a hydraulic lift or jacks to raise the vehicle.

Access the cable and housing: Depending on your vehicle, the cable and housing may be accessible from under the hood or from beneath the dashboard. Remove any necessary panels or components to access the old cable and housing near the transmission.

Disconnect the old cable: Disconnect the speedometer cable from both the speedometer gauge on the dashboard and the transmission. Note that removing the cable may result in some transmission fluid spillage, and it’s best to have a drain pan ready to collect the fluid and avoid a mess.

Remove the old housing: Start by disassembling the dashboard to access the speedometer, then disconnect the speedometer cable from the back of the speedometer. Next, remove the firewall grommet before removing the cable and housing from its mounting points.

Install the new housing: Position the new housing in place and secure it to its mounting points.

Connect the new cable: Compare the old cable and its replacement to ensure an accurate fit. Then, attach the new speedometer cable to the speedometer gauge and the transmission, ensuring proper alignment.

Test the speedometer: With the vehicle in neutral or park, start the engine and test the speedometer to ensure it is functioning accurately.

Reassemble: Reinstall any panels or components that were removed earlier. Transfer any reusable hardware from the old cable to the new one. Reinstall the firewall grommet.

Test drive: Lower the car if necessary and take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the speedometer is functioning correctly and the cable and housing are working smoothly.

Verify accuracy: Check the accuracy of the speedometer by comparing it with GPS or a known speed reference.

Final inspection: Double-check all connections and make any necessary adjustments to ensure everything is properly secured.

You may also need supplemental parts such as a replacement gasket and a socket wrench for the driveshaft.

Your speedometer cable and housing are vital parts of your car that allow you to monitor your speed accurately. If you suspect there’s a problem with your speedometer, take your car to a trusted mechanic as soon as possible.

What happens if I don’t replace my speedometer cable and housing?

Mechanically, the speedometer readings may become inaccurate or stop functioning altogether, making it challenging to monitor your vehicle's speed. This can lead to potential legal issues and safety concerns. Additionally, the odometer may not record mileage correctly, affecting vehicle maintenance schedules and resale value.

As a driver, you'll lack essential speed information, potentially resulting in speeding tickets, difficulty adhering to speed limits, and compromising your overall driving experience. Timely replacement is crucial to maintain accurate speedometer readings and safe driving practices.

What is a speedometer cable and housing?

A speedometer cable and housing are critical components of a vehicle's speedometer system.

The speedometer cable is a flexible wire-like structure that connects the transmission to the speedometer gauge on the dashboard. As the vehicle moves, the rotation of the transmission drives the speedometer cable, which in turn causes the speedometer gauge to display the vehicle's speed on the car’s speedometer in the instrument cluster. In modern vehicles, an electronic speed sensor is used instead of a cable.

The housing is a protective casing that encloses the speedometer cable, shielding it from dirt, moisture, and other elements. Together, these two parts work to power your speedometer and provide accurate speed readings.

The cable and housing work together to ensure the accurate measurement and display of the vehicle's speed. The speedometer is an essential instrument for drivers to maintain safe and legal driving speeds.

Over time, the speedometer cable and housing can wear out, leading to inaccurate speedometer readings or complete failure. Timely inspection, maintenance, and replacement of these components are crucial to ensure proper speedometer functionality and safe driving practices.

When should I replace the speedometer cable and housing on my car?

Symptoms: You should consider replacing the speedometer cable and housing if you notice malfunctions such as erratic speedometer readings, the speedometer not working, or noise coming from the cable.

Age: If your vehicle has high mileage or shows signs of wear on the speedo cable or housing, it's a good idea to have them inspected and replaced if necessary. Regular maintenance and inspections will help ensure accurate speedometer readings and safe driving.

You may wish to replace the tachometer at the same time as the speedometer gear, while you have access to the area.

How often should a speedometer cable and housing be replaced?

On average, the speedometer cable and housing can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but this can vary based on driving habits and vehicle maintenance. In some cases, these components may last the entire lifespan of the vehicle without needing replacement.

If you notice symptoms like erratic speedometer readings or noise coming from the cable, it's best to have your speedometer system inspected by a mechanic. Speedometer repair isn’t always possible—a complete replacement may be necessary.

Can I replace my speedometer cable and housing myself?

Yes, you can replace the speedometer cable and housing yourself if you have the necessary mechanical skills and tools. However, DIY replacement can be challenging. If you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to seek help from a qualified mechanic to ensure a proper and safe installation of your new speedometer cable.

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FAQs

What does a broken speedometer cable sound like?

A broken speedometer cable can produce a whining or grinding noise, particularly when the vehicle is in motion. This noise may originate from the dashboard area or the transmission, indicating a potential issue with the cable that requires inspection and replacement.

What is the life of a speedometer cable?

On average, an automotive speedometer cable can last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles—but the lifespan of a speedometer cable can vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance.

Regular inspections and proper lubrication can help extend the cable’s life. However, if you notice any signs of wear, it's essential to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic for timely replacement.

Where is a speedometer cable in a car?

The speedometer cable is typically located between the transmission and the speedometer gauge on the dashboard. It runs through the engine bay and/or underneath the vehicle, connecting the rotating output shaft of the transmission to the speedometer mechanism.

In some newer vehicles, the speedometer cable may be replaced by an electronic sensor that sends speed data directly to the speedometer gauge through the vehicle's computer system.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.