What Causes the Malibu to Fail to Engage Gear?

2 Answers
StDavid
07/28/25 9:42pm
Malibu's failure to engage gear is due to an issue with the reverse gear in the transmission. Below is an introduction to the relevant transmission content: 1. 6AT Transmission: Except for shifting from P to D at the start and from D to P when parking, the D gear can be used from beginning to end. The Sport gear can be used when starting, but on flat roads, starting with Sport gear does not increase speed as quickly as with D gear. The S gear has excellent acceleration performance and is used for overtaking after reaching a certain speed. When the car is running, shifting the D gear to the left switches to M gear mode, allowing control of the gear by pushing the gear lever forward or backward. 2. Classification: Automotive transmissions can be divided into manual transmissions and automatic transmissions, with AT being the commonly referred to automatic transmission. Generally, automatic transmissions have gears such as P, R, N, D, 2, 1, or L. 6AT indicates six forward gears, meaning there are six sets of gear groups with different transmission ratios. Others include 4AT, 8AT, 9AT, and even 10AT. Although the preceding numbers differ, they are all derivatives of automatic transmission technology.
Was this review help?
18
2
Share
VanValentina
08/12/25 2:18am
My old Malibu had an issue with not being able to shift gears last year, which really worried me at the time. The mechanic later said it was caused by poor contact in the small solenoid valve inside the gearshift mechanism, which is located right under the shift lever and prone to problems when damp. Another time, it was because I parked too hastily, and the P-lock hook got stuck in the ratchet wheel. The mechanic taught me to always engage the handbrake first before shifting to P when parking on a slope. Old transmission fluid can also affect shifting; if shifting feels rough, it's time to check the fluid. Also, cars with electronic shifters need special attention to battery voltage, as low power can even prevent shift signals from being transmitted. If you hear a clicking sound when shifting, be sure to stop and check immediately.
Was this review help?
16
0
Share
Expand All
More Forum Discussions

Can I switch from 92 to 95 octane gasoline?

Yes. However, it is best to follow the vehicle's manual when selecting the gasoline octane rating. The specific reasons are as follows: 1. Gasoline selection: The type of gasoline a car uses is closely related to its engine compatibility. Higher compression ratios result in greater power and efficiency but lower stability, thus requiring gasoline with better anti-knock properties. 2. Risks of mixing: Occasionally mixing different octane ratings is acceptable, but long-term mixing can lead to engine knocking, insufficient power, and accelerated engine wear.
12
4
Share

What Causes Water Leakage in the B-Pillar?

It may be due to a clogged sunroof drain pipe or a loose rubber pipe joint. Here is some relevant information about car sunroofs: 1. Overview: A car sunroof is installed on the roof and effectively promotes air circulation inside the vehicle, allowing fresh air to enter and filtering the interior air to protect the health of the driver and passengers. Additionally, a sunroof can provide a broader view and meet the needs of mobile photography and videography. 2. Classification: Car sunroofs can be roughly divided into: sliding-out, built-in, built-in flip-out, panoramic, and curtain types. They are mainly installed in commercial SUVs, sedans, and other vehicle models.
6
1
Share

What Causes the Abnormal Noise When Reversing in an Automatic Transmission?

Reasons: Damage to the reverse gear teeth, such as broken or chipped teeth; damage to the reverse gear bearing, or poor lubrication of the bearing causing friction noise. Below is an introduction to related content: 1. The role of the synchronizer: The synchronizer is a device inside the transmission that ensures smooth gear engagement when shifting gears while driving. 2. The principle of engaging reverse gear: The synchronizer makes shifting easier because it synchronizes the speed of the gears. However, reverse gear uses straight-cut gears, and when engaging reverse, the reverse gear meshes with two other gears. Only in this way can the car reverse.
6
4
Share

Can a modified valve exhaust pipe pass the annual inspection?

Strictly speaking, it cannot pass the annual inspection because modifications to the exhaust system are not allowed. Any tampering with the exhaust system cannot be registered, let alone pass the annual review. Items inspected during the annual inspection: If an on-site inspection is required, the vehicle must be driven onto the inspection line. The inspection line will check the car's braking system, lighting system, exhaust emissions, chassis, etc. Cases where the annual inspection cannot be passed: If any of the inspection items fail to meet the standards, the car will not pass the annual inspection. During the on-site inspection, it is also necessary to bring the vehicle registration certificate, compulsory insurance policy, and the owner's ID card.
10
3
Share

Why does the engine speed suddenly increase when stepping on the accelerator?

This is caused by high idle speed, but the reasons for high idle speed are quite complex. The following are some explanations: 1. Idle switch signal circuit issues: Due to improper adjustment of the idle contact gap, poor contact, damage, or circuit faults, the engine ECU cannot correctly determine the idle condition, leading to idle control errors and various idle speed abnormalities. 2. Idle speed control valve and its circuit issues: When the ISC valve is clogged or stuck due to carbon buildup, or when there are short circuits, open circuits, or grounding in the control circuit, the engine ECU cannot properly control the opening of the ISC valve, resulting in poor idle speed. These should be the focus during diagnosis.
7
2
Share

Can 94v and 98w be used interchangeably?

They can be mixed as long as the size is consistent, which will have minimal impact. Below is relevant information about car tire dimensions: 1. Tire width: Tire width is one of the factors affecting a vehicle's fuel consumption. Wider treads increase the contact area with the ground, resulting in greater friction and higher fuel consumption. 2. Aspect ratio: Tires with a higher aspect ratio have longer sidewalls, offering better comfort. However, the downside of a high aspect ratio is weaker lateral resistance during turns. 3. Tire size speed rating: Car tires limit the vehicle's speed, as different tires have varying speed standards. It is crucial to strictly adhere to the tire's speed limits while driving, otherwise, it will significantly reduce the tire's lifespan and increase the risk of blowouts.
5
2
Share
Cookie
Cookie Settings
© 2025 Servanan International Pte. Ltd.