Why Your Car Won’t Switch into Gear: Most Common Causes and Solutions

Transmission Fluid Issues

A problem with the gearbox fluid is one of the main reasons a car won’t shift gears. Shifting gears can be challenging if the fluid level is either too high or too low. There might be a leak if there is low fluid level even with routine maintenance. However, too much gearbox fluid can result in gear slippage. The smooth shifting of your car into gear can also be impeded by burnt or dirty gearbox fluid.

You should check the gearbox fluid and see if it needs to be changed in order to resolve this problem. The fluid’s colour, smell, and consistency can all be used to evaluate it. It’s obvious that the fluid needs to be replaced right away if it looks blackish and smells burnt.

Wrong Shift Lock Release

When an automatic transmission car is parked, the shift knob is locked, and it can only be released when the driver steps on the brake and starts the engine. This keeps unintentional gear shifts from happening when the driver isn’t around. The car’s inability to shift gears can, however, occasionally be caused by the shift lock becoming stuck and failing to disengage correctly. A “shift lock” or “shift release” switch is typically found close to the shifter on contemporary cars with automatic transmissions. It could be concealed beneath a tiny trim piece that is accessible with a key or screwdriver. You can shift into drive by using the key to open the lock.

You can try to avoid the shift interlock solenoid if you run into a stuck gear shift. As you put the car in gear or go into drive, keep your foot on the brake pedal. See the guide for a car gear stuck in park mode for more information on how to carry out this bypass.

Clutch Failure

Gear shift problems in cars with manual transmissions can be caused by a hydraulic fluid leak in the master cylinder. The vehicle’s movement is produced by the master cylinder when the clutch pedal is depressed. The master cylinder runs on hydraulic fluid when the clutch pedal is released, engaging the clutch. A tiny fluid leak can stop the clutch pedal from working properly, which will prevent the car from shifting into gear. When the clutch pedal in a car falls to the floor or needs too much pressure, it’s another indication that the clutch is failing.

It is advised to seek the advice of a qualified mechanic in order to repair a malfunctioning car clutch. For the best possible vehicle performance, they will evaluate the problem, replace any worn-out parts as needed, and make sure the clutch is operating properly.

Torn Shift Linkage Wire

Your car’s cables and wires may occasionally pinch off or burst, particularly if they come into contact with the sharp metal edges of the frame. Regardless of the type of gearbox, your car will not shift into gear if the linkage cable to the clutch is broken. Your shift linkage wires’ condition can be determined by a variety of situations:

• Inability to shift gears: This may indicate that your horizontal shift cable has broken.
• Only being able to shift into third or fourth gear: This could point to a possible problem with your vertical shift cable.
• Altering gears without compromising the gearbox: This circumstance may indicate that one or both of the cables is broken.

To evaluate the situation, you might need to look underneath the car or find the linkage in the engine bay if you think there may be a severed linkage cable. Follow the linkage from the shifter to the transmission to make sure all parts are in good condition and firmly attached. Reassembling the components alone might not be enough because the linkage might need new components or adjustments to function properly. To resolve this issue, we advise having a qualified mechanic inspect your car.

Bad Torque Converter

Gear shifting issues can arise from a variety of internal transmission component failures in automatic transmissions. A torque converter’s pump, stator, and turbine can malfunction and cause slipping when changing gears. Examining these components is essential because they may keep the gearbox from changing at all. Minor issues that affect gear shifting can also be resolved with routine maintenance performed on the automatic gearbox.

Repairing a malfunctioning torque converter is a difficult undertaking that frequently calls for knowledge and specific tools. As a result, it is suggested that an auto expert resolve this problem.

Failed Clutch Packs

Your car won’t shift into gear while the engine is running if you drive an automatic and have problems with your clutch pack. Clutch pack issues can manifest as transmission slippage, in which shifting gears causes the engine to rev higher than the vehicle’s speed, or as difficulty starting your car after stopping.

It is essential to replace the clutch pack by hiring a qualified mechanic in order to solve this issue. For these parts to remain consistent in quality and wear, new plates and discs must be used.

Misaligned Gearbox

Misalignment problems are more common in manual transmissions, and if ignored, can result in total gear failure. Thermal expansion and other underlying issues, such as imbalanced gearbox fluid or clutch problems, can cause misalignment.

You might need to replace the worn clutch plate or slightly adjust the clutch in order to correct a misaligned gearbox. On the other hand, some worn-out auto parts may need to be replaced due to a malfunctioning gearbox.

Not being able to shift into any gear in your car can be annoying and even dangerous. You can make sure that the gearbox system in your car runs smoothly by being aware of the common causes and putting the right solutions in place. Gear shifting issues can be avoided by regular maintenance and timely car repair and service. Contact the best automotive service center for the best services and care for your vehicle.