2013 Chevrolet Camaro Control Cables

What Are Automotive Control Cables?

Automotive control cables are the unsung heroes of vehicle operation. These mechanical linkages transmit driver inputs — from pedal presses to lever movements — directly to the systems that make a vehicle go, stop, shift, and steer. Whether you're engaging a transfer case, selecting a gear, or adjusting the throttle, a control cable is almost certainly involved in translating your intention into mechanical action.

At their core, control cables consist of an inner wire that carries movement and an outer casing that protects and guides the wire. This construction ensures smooth motion transfer even when routed through curved or confined spaces in a vehicle's chassis, giving engineers the layout flexibility that rigid linkages simply can't provide.

Types of Control Cables and What They Do

Control cables cover a wide range of vehicle functions. Common types include:

• Transfer Case Shift Cables — Connect the interior shift lever or selector to the transfer case, enabling drivers to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes. These are especially critical on off-road and truck platforms.
• Transmission Shift Cables — Found in both manual and automatic transmissions, these cables link the gear selector to the transmission, allowing for precise gear changes and smooth linear movement.
• Throttle Cables — Connect the accelerator pedal to the throttle body, regulating the engine's air intake and power output. They require precise tension and minimal slack for responsive control.
• Clutch Cables — Transmit pedal force to the clutch release mechanism in manual transmission vehicles, enabling smooth gear engagement and disengagement under high mechanical loads.
• Parking Brake Cables — Engage and disengage the parking brake system, ensuring the vehicle remains stationary when parked and providing an additional safety layer in emergency situations.

Each cable type is engineered for its specific function, load requirements, and routing environment. Worn, frayed, or broken control cables can lead to sloppy shifting, unresponsive throttle, or even an inoperable vehicle — making timely inspection and replacement essential to safe driving.

Top Brands in Control Cables

Choosing a quality replacement cable from a trusted manufacturer ensures long service life and proper fitment. Here are the leading brands available:

• B&M — A performance-focused brand renowned in the racing and enthusiast community. B&M's shifter cables feature a "long-lay" outer jacket for reduced kinking and are precisely clearanced to minimize backlash, making them a go-to for custom shifter builds and performance applications.
• Dorman — With over a century of aftermarket experience, Dorman delivers direct-fit replacement control cables engineered to restore original equipment function. Their transfer case shift cables are try-on tested and built with durable metal cable and factory-style hardware for a reliable, cost-effective repair.
• Crown Automotive — The go-to source for Jeep and Chrysler replacement parts, Crown Automotive offers transfer case shift cables built to OE specifications from high-strength materials. Their cables are designed to install as easily as the stock parts, making them ideal for JK Wrangler owners and Mopar enthusiasts.
• Mopar Performance — For drivers who want factory-engineered precision, Mopar Performance control cables are built to the exact standards of the original manufacturer. These cables are the authentic choice for Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Chrysler vehicles, ensuring seamless integration with OEM drivetrain components.

Shop by Subcategory

Ready to find the right cable for your vehicle? Browse our top control cable subcategory to narrow your search:

• Transfer Case Shift Cables — Essential for 4WD and AWD vehicles, these cables link your cab-mounted selector to the transfer case. Whether you drive a Jeep Wrangler, a full-size truck, or an off-road SUV, a properly functioning transfer case shift cable is critical for switching between drive modes reliably.