Accidentally Put Car in Reverse Now Transmission Won’t Move

What to Do if You Accidentally Put Your Car in Reverse and Now the Transmission Won’t Move

If you accidentally put your car in reverse and now the transmission won’t move, don’t panic. Here are some steps you can take to try and fix the problem:

1. Check the Transmission Fluid Level

The first thing you should do is check the transmission fluid level. If the fluid level is low, it could be causing the transmission to malfunction. To check the fluid level, follow these steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again.
5. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. The fluid should be between the “full” and “add” marks.

If the fluid level is low, add some transmission fluid until the level is between the “full” and “add” marks.

2. Check the Transmission Filter

If the transmission fluid level is okay, the next thing you should check is the transmission filter. A dirty filter can restrict the flow of fluid to the transmission, which can cause the transmission to malfunction. To check the transmission filter, follow these steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission filter.
3. Remove the transmission filter and inspect it for dirt and debris.
4. If the filter is dirty, replace it with a new one.

3. Check the Transmission Solenoids

If the transmission fluid level and filter are both okay, the next thing you should check is the transmission solenoids. Solenoids are electrical valves that control the flow of fluid in the transmission. If a solenoid is malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission to malfunction. To check the transmission solenoids, follow these steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission solenoids. The solenoids are usually located on the side of the transmission.
3. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the solenoids.
4. Use a multimeter to test the solenoids for continuity. If a solenoid is not working, replace it with a new one.

4. Check the Transmission Control Module

If the transmission fluid level, filter, and solenoids are all okay, the next thing you should check is the transmission control module (TCM). The TCM is a computer that controls the operation of the transmission. If the TCM is malfunctioning, it can cause the transmission to malfunction. To check the TCM, follow these steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Open the hood and locate the TCM. The TCM is usually located on the side of the transmission.
3. Disconnect the electrical connector from the TCM.
4. Use a scan tool to check the TCM for trouble codes.
5. If the TCM is malfunctioning, replace it with a new one.

5. Get Professional Help

If you have tried all of the above steps and the transmission still won’t move, you will need to get professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem and repair the transmission.

Conclusion

If you accidentally put your car in reverse and now the transmission won’t move, don’t panic. Follow the steps in this guide to try and fix the problem. If you are unable to fix the problem yourself, you will need to get professional help.