Car Goes into Gear but Won’t Move: Automatic Transmission Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
If your car goes into gear but won’t move, it can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous situation. There are several potential causes for this problem, and it’s important to diagnose the issue correctly in order to get your car back on the road safely.
Possible Causes
- Low transmission fluid: This is one of the most common causes of an automatic transmission not moving. When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to overheat and malfunction.
- Dirty transmission fluid: Over time, transmission fluid can become dirty and contaminated with metal shavings and other debris. This can cause the transmission to shift hard or not move at all.
- Faulty transmission filter: The transmission filter helps to keep the transmission fluid clean. If the filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fluid and cause the transmission to malfunction.
- Damaged transmission components: If the transmission has been damaged, it may not be able to move properly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a worn-out clutch or a broken gear.
- Electrical problems: The automatic transmission is controlled by a variety of electrical components, such as the transmission control module (TCM). If any of these components fail, it can cause the transmission to malfunction.
Troubleshooting
If your car goes into gear but won’t move, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem:
- Check the transmission fluid level: The transmission fluid dipstick is usually located near the engine. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. Then, reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again. The fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
- Inspect the transmission fluid: The transmission fluid should be a bright red color. If the fluid is dark brown or black, it may be dirty and need to be replaced.
- Check the transmission filter: The transmission filter is usually located on the side of the transmission. To check the filter, you will need to remove the transmission pan. Once the pan is removed, you can inspect the filter for any signs of damage or clogging.
- Have the transmission diagnosed by a mechanic: If you are unable to diagnose the problem yourself, you should take your car to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to use diagnostic tools to identify the problem and recommend the appropriate repairs.
Repair Costs
The cost of repairing an automatic transmission can vary depending on the severity of the problem. Minor repairs, such as replacing the transmission fluid or filter, can cost around $100 to $200. More major repairs, such as replacing a damaged transmission component, can cost several thousand dollars.
Conclusion
If your car goes into gear but won’t move, it’s important to diagnose the problem correctly in order to get your car back on the road safely. There are several potential causes for this problem, and the cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the issue. If you are unable to diagnose the problem yourself, you should take your car to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
