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Speedometer needle bounces out of control

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Old 04-05-2004, 09:57 PM
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Car: 1999 Saturn SL2
Engine: 4 cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Speedometer needle bounces out of control

My speedometer cable seems to bounce around a LOT... like bouncing from 10 MPH to 35MPH and back again. It especially does this when I am accelerating from a stop. When I am cruising, it seems to level off... even though it still bounces around between a couple of MPH.

I read the FAQ on the main page that bouncing speedometer needles are sometimes caused by a lack of cable lubrication or something like that. However, I believe it said only by 1-2 MPH... mine bounces around by about 25 MPH at times!

Is this a bigger problem than just a cable lubrication?
Old 04-05-2004, 10:33 PM
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I wouldn't be suprised if it was lack of lubrication. I've had some that were pretty bad before.
Old 04-05-2004, 10:41 PM
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I'd definately say either a lack of lube, or the cable itself is worn out and binding. I've had a couple cars that did it just as bad, and a new cable made them good as new

Good luck
Old 04-05-2004, 10:44 PM
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Car: 1999 Saturn SL2
Engine: 4 cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
How hard is it to lube the cable, and how would do I do it? What kind of lubrication should I use?

How much would it cost to replace the cable should lubrication not fix the problem?

Thanks again.
Old 04-05-2004, 11:43 PM
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Disconnect it on both ends, and squeeze white lithium grease into the cable. Then move the center around as much as you can to spread the lube, and add more lube if you think it needs it.

If that doesn't fix it, the new cable will run you about $20, and all the ones I've delt with come prelubed.
Old 04-06-2004, 07:02 AM
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Car: 1999 Saturn SL2
Engine: 4 cylinder
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Alright, thanks a lot man.
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