Car Won’t Start: Transmission Locked
What is a transmission lock?
A transmission lock is a safety feature that prevents the car from being shifted out of park when the engine is running. This helps to prevent the car from accidentally rolling away and causing an accident. The transmission lock is usually engaged when the driver puts the car in park and removes the key from the ignition.
Why is my transmission locked?
There are several reasons why your transmission may be locked. The most common reason is that the brake pedal is not being pressed down far enough. The brake pedal must be pressed down all the way in order to disengage the transmission lock.
Other reasons why the transmission may be locked include:
- A faulty shift interlock solenoid
- A broken shift cable
- A problem with the brake pedal switch
How do I unlock my transmission?
To unlock your transmission, you need to press down on the brake pedal all the way. If this does not work, you can try the following:
- Shift the car into neutral and then back into park.
- Turn the engine off and then back on.
- Check the brake pedal switch to make sure it is working properly.
- If none of these steps work, you may need to take your car to a mechanic to have it repaired.
What should I do if my transmission is locked and I can’t unlock it?
If you are unable to unlock your transmission, you should not attempt to drive the car. This could cause serious damage to the transmission. Instead, you should call a tow truck to have the car towed to a mechanic.
Conclusion
A transmission lock is a safety feature that prevents the car from being shifted out of park when the engine is running. If your transmission is locked, there are several steps you can take to try to unlock it. If you are unable to unlock the transmission, you should not attempt to drive the car and call a tow truck instead.
