How to correctly know if cable is attached to transmission correctly?

SHE’S A SHE

MEMBER
2010 MAZDA 3
2.0L
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

Help, how to correctly know if cable is attached to transmission correctly and if in correct gear. Car was driven for some time before discovering “broken bushing” problem. Now not sure if in correct gear at all times. Thought I had it figured out, then after short drive it started ‘seizing’ and jerking all over again.
Also, what are the small wires for that are attached to actual gear shifter? I broke 1 and I don’t think I know how (or have materials) to solder back on!

Sunday, March 9th, 2025 AT 9:54 PM

2 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
14,015 POSTS

If it isn't correct the normal result is that it won't start in park, instead it would start in gear. So, if you put it in park, it doesn't roll around and it only starts in park, it almost has to be correct.
However, the wires you speak of are part of that system, if they are torn then they will need to be repaired. The best way would me to get a replacement connector from a salvage vehicle and splice that in. Then see if it only starts in park. This video is one method of wire repair, takes no solder, just the heat shrink tubing, ferules, crimp tool and heat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqV-EyYDEAg

Another one showing the crimp and seal connection method.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRA0iE_qoYk

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Monday, March 10th, 2025 AT 12:56 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
50,192 POSTS

If you can upload an image of what wires you are seeing would help, here is how to install the shifter cable and how to adjust it. The car will not drive correctly is this cable is not adjusted. Please upload pictures or videos in your response of any problems so we can see what to help you with. The adjustment is up at the shifter itself. Check out the images (below). Let me know if you messed with the gear range sensor so I can help you with that as well.

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