What Causes an Automatic Transmission Car to Fail to Engage Gear?
2 Answers
Reasons why an automatic transmission car fails to engage gear: 1. Possible internal failure of the gear shift assembly; 2. Possible malfunction of the control module inside the transmission; 3. Possible failure of the transmission gear position switch. The P-lock mechanism of the transmission consists of a lock gear, a lock pin, and a set of action mechanisms. When the gear lever is moved to the P position, the cable drives the connecting ball pin, causing the working pin to slide and engage the lock pin pawl with the parking gear, thereby achieving parking lock. The scientific parking method for an automatic transmission car is: after the car enters the parking space, first press the brake and shift to N gear, then pull up the handbrake, release the foot brake and turn off the engine, and finally shift to P gear and remove the key.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience driving automatic transmission cars, I've encountered many gear-shifting issues, the most common being insufficient or contaminated transmission fluid. Too little fluid results in inadequate oil pressure, preventing smooth gear changes; dirty fluid can also clog internal components. Another culprit is a faulty gear position sensor, which detects the selected gear position—if it fails, the signal won't reach the transmission. Sometimes, low battery voltage or alternator problems can cause electronic systems to malfunction, leading to shifting difficulties. During cold winter starts, thickened fluid may temporarily cause sticking. First, check the transmission dipstick to ensure fluid levels are within the normal range, and watch for any warning lights on the dashboard. Avoid forcing the gearshift, as this risks damaging more components—visit a repair shop promptly for diagnosis. Other potential factors include control module failures or loose mechanical connections, which require professional tools for inspection. DIY attempts can be unsafe, so spending a little money for peace of mind is worthwhile.