Kick-Down Cable Repair Service Costs
Basic Kick-Down Cable Adjustment
Labor Time: 0.5-1 hour
Typical Cost: $62.50-$125
Includes inspection, basic adjustment, and testing of existing cable.
Kick-Down Cable Replacement (Easy Access)
Labor Time: 1-2 hours
Typical Cost: $125-$250
Parts Cost: $30-$75
Total Range: $155-$325
Includes removal of old cable and installation of new cable in vehicles with good accessibility.
Kick-Down Cable Replacement (Limited Access)
Labor Time: 2-3 hours
Typical Cost: $250-$375
Parts Cost: $30-$75
Total Range: $280-$450
For vehicles requiring additional disassembly or with challenging access points.
Complex Kick-Down Cable System Repair
Labor Time: 3-4 hours
Typical Cost: $375-$500
Parts Cost: $50-$100
Total Range: $425-$600
For vehicles requiring extensive disassembly or having integrated electronic components.
Note: Prices are estimates based on our standard rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Additional parts or repairs may be necessary based on inspection findings.
Kick-Down Cable Repair Procedures by Type
Mechanical Kick-Down Cable
Common Symptoms:Delayed downshifting, poor acceleration, or cable physically broken/detached
Repair Steps:
- Locate the kick-down cable connection at both the throttle body and transmission
- Remove the old cable by detaching it from both mounting points
- Clean the mounting areas and inspect for any damage
- Install the new cable, ensuring proper routing away from hot surfaces
- Attach both ends securely - throttle body and transmission
- Adjust the cable tension according to manufacturer specifications
- Test the operation through various throttle positions
Electronic Kick-Down Module
Common Symptoms:Erratic shifting, check engine light, no downshift under heavy acceleration
Repair Steps:
- Connect diagnostic scanner to verify kick-down module failure
- Locate the electronic kick-down module (usually near transmission or throttle body)
- Disconnect the battery before starting work
- Remove electrical connectors from the old module
- Remove mounting hardware and old module
- Install new module in the same orientation
- Reconnect all electrical connections
- Reconnect battery
- Use diagnostic tool to clear any error codes
- Perform test drive to confirm proper operation
Integrated Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Kick-Down
Common Symptoms:Transmission not downshifting, check engine light, inconsistent shifting
Repair Steps:
- Scan vehicle for diagnostic trouble codes
- Access the throttle body assembly
- Disconnect the battery
- Remove electrical connections to the TPS
- Remove old TPS from throttle body
- Clean mounting surface thoroughly
- Install new TPS using new gasket if required
- Reconnect electrical connections
- Reconnect battery
- Use diagnostic tool to perform TPS relearn procedure
- Clear any stored codes
- Test drive to verify proper operation
Important Notes:
- Always consult vehicle-specific repair manuals for exact procedures
- Use proper tools and torque specifications
- Some repairs may require specialized diagnostic equipment
- Professional installation is recommended for electronic components
Note: Repair times typically range from 1-3 hours depending on vehicle make/model and type of kick-down system.
Understanding Kick-Down Cables
AKick-Down Cableis a mechanical linkage that connects your vehicle's accelerator pedal to the automatic transmission. Its primary purpose is to signal the transmission to downshift when you need quick acceleration, such as when passing another vehicle or climbing a hill.
How Kick-Down Cables Work
When you press the accelerator pedal all the way down (commonly known as "flooring it"), the kick-down cable triggers the transmission to shift into a lower gear. This action provides:
- Immediate power boost for acceleration
- Better engine response during passing maneuvers
- Enhanced climbing performance on hills
- Improved overall vehicle control
Signs of Kick-Down Cable Issues
A faulty kick-down cable may exhibit these symptoms:
- Delayed or no downshift when accelerating hard
- Poor acceleration performance
- Transmission staying in higher gears when it should downshift
- Unusual transmission behavior during passing maneuvers
Note:Regular maintenance of your kick-down cable ensures optimal transmission performance and response. If you experience any issues with your vehicle's acceleration or transmission behavior, having the kick-down cable inspected should be part of your diagnostic process.
Common Failure Symptoms of Kick-Down Cable: Warning Signs to Watch For
Kick-Down Cable Maintenance Guide
GM/Chevrolet Kick-Down Cables
Signs of Failure:
- Delayed or harsh downshifting
- Cable appears frayed or stretched
- Broken or missing cable clip
- Transmission won't downshift under heavy acceleration
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 30,000 miles or when transmission service is performed. Replace if any signs of wear are present.
Ford Kick-Down Cables
Signs of Failure:
- Sluggish acceleration response
- Cable housing cracks or deterioration
- Visible rust or corrosion
- Sticking or binding during operation
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 50,000 miles. Lubricate cable ends annually. Replace if movement isn't smooth or cable shows wear.
Mopar/Chrysler Kick-Down Cables
Signs of Failure:
- Transmission won't kick down under full throttle
- Cable appears stretched or loose
- Broken or missing adjustment clips
- Excessive play in cable movement
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 40,000 miles. Adjust cable tension during routine transmission maintenance. Replace if adjustment cannot maintain proper tension.
Universal/Aftermarket Kick-Down Cables
Signs of Failure:
- Improper cable length after installation
- Poor fitment at connection points
- Cable binding or sticking
- Inconsistent shifting performance
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 25,000 miles or annually. Check mounting hardware and adjustment regularly. Replace if any compatibility issues arise or wear is evident.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
