This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the automatic transmission shift cable on a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with the 2.5L I4 engine and AWD.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Shift cable assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cable grommets (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cable bushings (if worn) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent accidental starting
4. Allow engine to cool if recently operated
5. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands
6. Remove engine splash shield if equipped for access to transmission end of cable

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove center console components
   Remove the center console trim panel surrounding the shifter. Use trim removal tools to carefully pry up the trim panel starting from the rear. Disconnect any electrical connectors for heated seat switches or USB ports. Remove screws securing the shifter bezel and lift away.
2. 2

   Access shifter assembly
   With the console trim removed, locate the shift cable attachment point at the base of the shifter assembly. You should see the cable end attached to a pivot lever on the shifter mechanism.
3. 3

   Disconnect cable from shifter
   Pry the cable end bushing off the shifter lever ball stud using a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the bushing if reusing. Remove the cable bracket mounting bolts securing the cable housing to the shifter assembly. The bracket typically uses two bolts.
   Torque spec

   Cable Bracket Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove cable from firewall
   From inside the vehicle, push the cable grommet through the firewall opening. You may need to compress the retaining tabs on the grommet while pushing. The cable will now be free from the cabin.
5. 5

   Locate transmission shift lever
   Working from underneath the vehicle, locate the transmission shift lever on the driver's side of the transmission. The shift cable attaches to this lever near the transmission pan.
   ⚠Ensure the transmission shift lever does not move during cable removal, as this may affect internal valve body position.
6. 6

   Loosen cable adjustment
   Loosen the cable adjustment nut at the transmission bracket. This nut secures the cable housing and allows for length adjustment. Do not remove completely yet, just loosen to relieve tension.
   Torque spec

   Adjustment Nut10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Disconnect cable from transmission lever
   Pry the cable end off the transmission shift lever ball stud using a flathead screwdriver. Inspect the cable end bushing for wear or cracks and replace if damaged.
8. 8

   Remove cable bracket from transmission
   Remove the cable bracket mounting bolts that secure the cable bracket to the transmission case. Note the routing of any clips or guides along the transmission and frame.
   Torque spec

   Cable Bracket Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Remove old cable assembly
   Carefully route the old cable out from under the vehicle, noting the exact path it takes through frame clips, heat shields, and routing brackets. Take photos if necessary to ensure correct routing of the new cable.
10. 10

    Install new cable assembly
    Route the new shift cable from the transmission area through the firewall opening, following the same path as the old cable. Ensure the cable does not contact exhaust components, sharp edges, or moving parts. Install the firewall grommet ensuring it seats properly and seals the opening.
11. 11

    Attach cable to transmission
    Install the cable bracket to the transmission case and secure with mounting bolts. Attach the cable end to the transmission shift lever ball stud, ensuring the bushing clicks fully into place. Thread the adjustment nut onto the cable housing but do not tighten yet.
    Torque spec

    Cable Bracket Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Connect cable to shifter
    Working inside the vehicle, attach the cable end to the shifter lever ball stud, ensuring the bushing seats completely. Install the cable bracket to the shifter assembly and secure with mounting bolts.
    Torque spec

    Cable Bracket Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Adjust cable tension
    With the shifter in PARK position and the transmission lever in PARK position (fully rearward), adjust the cable length at the adjustment nut until there is minimal slack but no tension pulling the lever. The cable should move freely without binding. Tighten the adjustment nut to specification once proper adjustment is achieved.
    ⚠Incorrect adjustment can prevent proper gear engagement or allow starting in gears other than Park. Verify adjustment carefully.
    Torque spec

    Adjustment Nut10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Verify shift operation
    Before reassembling console components, reconnect the battery and verify the shifter moves smoothly through all gear positions. Check that the transmission shift lever moves to the correct position for each gear selection. Verify the engine will only start in PARK and NEUTRAL positions.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall shifter bezel and center console trim panels
2. Reconnect all electrical connectors for console-mounted switches
3. Reinstall engine splash shield if removed
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands
5. Reconnect negative battery terminal

Verification

• Start engine in PARK and verify it will not start in any other gear position
• With engine running and foot on brake, shift through all gear positions (P-R-N-D) and verify smooth engagement
• Verify transmission indicator display matches actual shifter position for all gears
• Verify shifter returns to PARK position and key can be removed
• Test drive vehicle and verify all gear selections engage properly without delay or harshness
• Recheck cable adjustment nut torque after test drive

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