Car Stuck in Neutral: Automatic Transmission

Causes

• Low transmission fluid: When the transmission fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to slip out of gear. This is especially common when the vehicle is cold, as the fluid is thicker and less able to flow.
• Dirty transmission fluid: Dirty transmission fluid can clog the transmission filter and restrict the flow of fluid. This can also cause the transmission to slip out of gear.
• Shift solenoid problems: The shift solenoids are responsible for shifting the transmission into different gears. If a shift solenoid fails, it can prevent the transmission from shifting into gear properly.
• Torque converter problems: The torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. If the torque converter fails, it can cause the transmission to lose power and slip out of gear.
• Transmission control module (TCM) problems: The TCM is the computer that controls the transmission. If the TCM fails, it can prevent the transmission from shifting into gear properly.

Symptoms

• The car rolls freely when the transmission is in gear.
• The car hesitates to shift gears.
• The car shifts gears erratically.
• The transmission warning light is illuminated.
• The check engine light is illuminated.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a car that is stuck in neutral, a mechanic will first check the transmission fluid level and condition. They will also use a diagnostic scanner to check for trouble codes that may indicate a problem with the shift solenoids, torque converter, or TCM.

Repair

The repair for a car that is stuck in neutral will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. If the transmission fluid is low or dirty, the mechanic will need to add or replace the fluid. If a shift solenoid has failed, the mechanic will need to replace it. If the torque converter has failed, the mechanic will need to rebuild or replace the transmission. If the TCM has failed, the mechanic will need to replace it.

Prevention

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your car from getting stuck in neutral. First, make sure to check the transmission fluid level and condition regularly. Second, have the transmission fluid changed and the transmission filter cleaned every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Third, avoid driving in conditions that could damage the transmission, such as off-roading or towing heavy loads.

Conclusion

If your car is stuck in neutral, it is important to have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Driving with a car that is stuck in neutral can be dangerous, as it can make it difficult to control the vehicle.