What are the reasons why an automatic transmission car cannot shift gears?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission car cannot shift gears due to: 1. The gear lock is engaged; 2. The P gear locking mechanism is stuck and cannot reset; 3. The shift solenoid valve is damaged and cannot complete the shift command; 4. The gear cable is damaged or broken; 5. The computer controlling the gears malfunctions. If the inability to shift gears is caused by the gear lock being engaged, the driver can try unlocking it with a key. If it still doesn't work, check whether the brake lights come on when stepping on the brake. If the brake lights do not illuminate, it can be determined that the brake switch is faulty. The car computer cannot detect whether the owner has stepped on the brake, so the gear cannot be shifted. The brake switch is located below the brake pedal and can be replaced by oneself.
I have an automatic transmission car that sometimes has difficulty shifting gears. There are several common causes: first, the brake switch is faulty. Automatic transmission cars require stepping on the brake to shift gears. If the switch is broken or stuck, the system won't receive the signal; second, there's an issue with the transmission fluid—either the level is too low or the oil has thickened, affecting internal pressure; third, the gear position sensor is malfunctioning, with loose wiring or oxidized connectors; fourth, the electronic control module is acting up, sending erratic signals that prevent proper gear engagement; fifth, mechanical wear, such as a stuck shift lever linkage. When checking myself, I first test the brake to see if the lights come on, then check the oil dipstick. If the problem persists, it's best to go to a repair shop rather than forcing the gear lever to avoid damaging the transmission. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, and avoiding shifting gears while parked on slopes can help extend its lifespan.
It's quite frustrating when an automatic transmission won't shift gears. Based on my experience, the main causes include: not pressing the brake pedal properly, as that switch malfunction is a common issue; insufficient or deteriorated transmission fluid, where inadequate pressure can't move the gears; faulty gear control switch or sensor, preventing data transmission; broken or poorly connected cables causing signal interruption; and sometimes the ignition switch not fully turned to the ON position from ACC. I recommend owners first try pressing the brake pedal firmly a few times to check the brake lights and ensure the key is turned to ON. If that doesn't resolve it, never take the risk of driving—visit a professional shop to scan for trouble codes to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. For maintenance, change the transmission fluid every two years and avoid frequent gear shifts to reduce wear and tear.
