GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Caution: The automatic transaxle range selector cable is made out of two cable sections. After initial connection never separate the two metal couplings from one another. Integrity of the connection of the two metal couplings will be lost if separation of the two metal couplings occurs. When servicing the transaxle remove the cable at the automatic transaxle range selector lever and at the automatic transaxle range selector cable bracket. If either section of the cable needs to be replaced, replace both of the cable sections. Loss of connection integrity of the two metal couplings can cause loss of transaxle shift control which could result in personal injury.

Notice: Adjust the automatic transaxle range selector cable while the transaxle and while the gear selector are in the Neutral position only. Failure to do so may cause mis-adjustment.

  1. Set the parking brake.
  2. Block the wheels.
  3. Notice: Do NOT attempt to separate the metal couplings. Replace both cable pieces if the metal couplings are separated. Both of the cable section will be damaged if the two metal couplings are disconnected.

  4. Push up both sides of the cable adjuster clip until the cable housings unlock.
  5. Important: Ensure that the transaxle AND the shift control are in Neutral.

  6. Push the shift control end of the cable conduit into the adjuster in order to inspect the cable and the cable adjuster. The cable conduit should move easily into the cable adjuster. When the cable conduit is released, the adjuster spring should push the cable conduit out until all of the cable slack is removed.
  7. If the cable adjuster does not allow the cable conduit to move, inspect the adjuster in order to ensure that the adjuster is COMPLETELY disengaged. If the adjuster is completely disengaged, replace the shift control cable. Refer to Range Selector Lever Cable Replacement .


    Object Number: 161178  Size: SH

    Important: The cable conduit lock clip MUST be COMPLETELY engaged.

  8. Ensure that the cable halves are engaged completely and engage the cable conduit lock clip.

  9. Object Number: 161179  Size: SH
  10. In this example, the cable lock clip is NOT completely engaged because the clip is not flush with the cable casing.

  11. Object Number: 161177  Size: SH
  12. Press the adjuster clip down completely.
  13. Pull the shift cable adjuster toward the shift control in order to ensure that the cable halves are locked together. If the cable halves are not locked together. Repeat the adjustment procedure. If the cable halves cannot be locked together, replace the shift control cable. Refer to Range Selector Lever Cable Replacement .