Finally, a few words on changing the cable (which I haven't done yet).
In order to change the cable, you've got to remove the kick panel.
In order to remove the kick panel, you've got to remove the hood release lever (as in the post above) and remove the kick panel attaching pin, as pictured below.
You remove the pin by rotating it 90° with a small standard screwdriver, then pulling it straight out. Installation is the opposite.
The kick panel has a number of attaching clips and projections, as seen in the next photos. In order to remove it, you've got to pull the rubber door seal away from the car (backwards) and from the kick panel, then flex the panel and the door sill panel in such a way as to release the tab that goes under the door sill panel.
Then, you've got to flex the kick panel so that it pulls out of its socket on the floor panel next to the clutch pedal, and maneuver its top hook off of the under-dash cover panel.
See the photos:
Good luck!
- Eric