Q: How to remove and install shift cables in a Chevrolet Cobalt,HHR and Saturn ION?
A: Disconnect the negative battery cable. Working inside the passenger compartment, lift up the shifter boot and remove the console. With the parking brake applied, position the shifter in Neutral for Getrag 5-speed models or 4th gear for MU3 5-speed models. Lift up the cable-retaining clips at the front of the shifter assembly and release the cable ends from the shifter. Remove the driver's side knee bolster. Raise the front of the vehicle and securely support it on jackstands. Remove the bolt securing the cables to the underbody, then lower the vehicle. Mark each cable end as to the arm it connects to, then pop the shift cable ends from the transaxle shift-arm, and twist the cables out of their mounting bracket. Pull back the carpeting and pull the cables through the grommet in the floor pan. Installation is the reverse of the removal procedure. At the transaxle, install the cables and attach the cable-to-underbody bolt. At the shifter on the floor, push in the U-shaped clip that locks the shifter in Neutral for Getrag 5-speed models. On MU3 5-speeds, lock the shifter in fourth gear with the locking clip on the shifter shaft, about an inch below the knob. After the cables have been attached to the arms on the shifter, the locking tabs can be snapped down at the front of the shifter to secure them. On either transaxle, return the locking clip to its original position. Check for proper shifting of the transaxle.
Q: How do I remove and adjust the shift cable for Chevrolet Cobalt,HHR,Pontiac G5 and Saturn ION?
A: To remove the shift cable, first disconnect it at the transaxle and test the shifter to see if it moves smoothly without the cable. If adjustment is needed, follow these steps: raise the front of the vehicle and secure it on jackstands. Next, remove the nut securing the cable, lower the vehicle, remove the center console, and push aside the carpet. Pry the shift cable end from the shift lever pin using a flat-blade screwdriver, pry the U-shaped shift cable retaining clip away from the cable, and place a blanket over the driver's fender. Find the shift lever in the engine compartment and disconnect the cable end from it.