What are the reasons why an automatic transmission car does not move after shifting to D gear?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission car does not move after shifting to D gear due to the following reasons: handbrake not released, gear sensor failure, low oil level, and brake lock. Below are the detailed explanations: Handbrake not released: The handbrake is not released or not fully released, causing the car not to move. In this case, simply release the handbrake. Gear sensor failure: The transmission shift valve position sensor signal is incorrect, causing gear issues, and the vehicle cannot determine its real-time gear. It is recommended to focus on checking the signal generator that works with the sensor to thoroughly resolve the fault. Low oil level: Insufficient automatic transmission oil or low oil level will prevent the automatic transmission from shifting gears automatically and effectively transmitting power. In this case, simply add transmission oil. Brake lock: It may be that the brake is not released or is locked, causing the wheels to stop rotating due to strong braking force, resulting in the car not moving. In this case, clean the entire braking system and replace the brake master cylinder cup.
I remember encountering this situation several times when helping friends with car repairs, and it feels quite common. When an automatic transmission car doesn't move in D gear, the most likely causes are related to the braking system or transmission. For example, the electronic parking brake isn't fully released—many cars now have automatic parking brakes, and forgetting to disengage it can cause the car to stick. Or the brake discs might be rusted and seized, which often happens after driving in the rain and leaving the car parked for a long time. Additionally, insufficient transmission fluid or leaks can prevent proper pressure for power transfer. If the fluid is dirty or old, it needs replacement to avoid accelerated wear. Another possibility is shifting gears before the car is fully started—if the dashboard isn't lit, it's definitely a key issue. I suggest checking these points first. If that doesn't help, tow it to a repair shop. Replacing small components can save big money—don't force it to drive to avoid wrecking the transmission.
My husband once encountered this situation while driving, which scared me so much I broke out in a cold sweat. That day, we shifted to D gear to start moving, but the car didn't budge at all. At first, we thought the engine was broken, but later we realized the brakes weren't fully released—the handbrake was stuck because it had rusted from melted snow in winter. Another common mistake is forgetting to start the ignition. Some people turn the key once without starting the engine and rush to shift gears, of course, the car won't move. If neither of these is the issue, it might be a fault in the vehicle's electronic system, such as incorrect signals from certain sensors misleading the transmission control unit. When facing such a situation, it's best to stay calm. Try shifting to neutral and pushing the car to see if it's stuck. If that doesn't work, call a tow truck immediately. Don't risk towing it yourself to avoid worsening the damage, as it could compromise driving safety.
