Friday, October 18, 2013
What Causes a Speedometer to Stick
Speedometers are a simple automotive gauge that most of us take for granted -- until they start malfunctioning. Older analog speedometers often stick due to problems with their speedometer cable or wear and tear damage to the speedometer itself. Digital speedometers and gauges in newer cars that "stick" or remain at a specific speed likely necessitate replacement by a dealership.
Speedometer Cable Lubrication
Older cars and trucks have a speedometer cable that attaches from the transmission or transfer case to the gauge cluster in the cabin of the vehicle. Removing the gauge cluster will give you access to the cable, which resembles a coaxial cable that you attach to your television. Use speedometer cable lubricant, which can be purchased at any automotive supply store, to re-lubricate the cable within its sheath. Reattach the cable, replace the gauge cluster and see if the issue has been resolved.
Broken Speedometer Cable
A broken speedometer cable can cause a speedometer to remain stuck at a specific speed, but will often first exhibit a bouncing speedometer readout. If the cable snapped in such a way so as to prevent the speedometer from falling back to zero, the result would be a stuck gauge. Remove the gauge cluster and replace the speedometer cable by detaching it from the gauge and transmission or transfer case and pulling it through the vehicle firewall. Installation is the opposite of removal.
Damaged Analog Cluster
On older cars, the analog cluster can wear out just as the speedometer cable itself wears out. Unfortunately, the odometer is often built into the speedometer, and replacing the gauge cluster means installing an odometer that does not accurately reflect the mileage on the car. This can be an issue if you choose to sell your car or if you need to file any insurance claims.
Digital Readouts and Newer Cars
Digital speedometer and gauge clusters on newer cars often do not have physical speedometer cables connecting the transmission to the gauge. This can be more reliable as there are fewer moving parts, but means that there are fewer do-it-yourself fixes for a malfunctioning gauge. Contact your dealership for information on possible electrical issues that would cause your speedometer to stick.
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