My speedometer has locked up

September 1, 2012 | By Richard Prince

Question:

The speedometer cable in our 1960 Pontiac broke. When I replaced it I discovered the speedometer was locked up. Have you seen this before? What can I do?

Answer:

Yes, I’ve seen this before...many times. The cable most likely broke because the speedometer head locked up.

My best advice is to restore or replace the speedometer. You may be able to get it spinning again with a liberal application of penetrating oil but this remedy usually doesn’t last very long.