What is the problem if the car is started but not moving?
3 Answers
It may be that the handbrake is not released. If it is not, release it and shift gears again. The following is an introduction to car ignition: 1. Introduction: The car ignition system is designed for spark-ignition engines to work properly. It supplies the spark plugs with high-voltage electricity (approximately 15,000 to 30,000V) in the correct firing order for each cylinder, enabling the spark plugs to generate a strong enough spark to ignite the combustible mixture. 2. Traditional ignition: The working process of a mechanical ignition system involves the crankshaft driving the distributor shaft to rotate. The cam on the distributor shaft turns, causing the primary contacts of the ignition coil to open and close, thereby generating high-voltage electricity. 3. Electronic ignition: The electronic ignition system is completely different from the mechanical ignition system. It has an electronic control device for ignition, which contains the ignition control curve (MAP) required by the engine under various operating conditions.
I recently encountered a similar situation while driving. After starting the car, the engine idled but the wheels didn't move at all, which was extremely frustrating. In such cases, the primary suspicion is severe wear of the clutch disc in manual transmission cars leading to power transmission failure, especially if you hear squeaking noises or feel the pedal is heavy—nine times out of ten, this is the issue. Secondly, check the braking system; in some car models, a stuck parking brake can lock the rear wheels, making the car immobile. Also, don’t overlook the possibility of being in the wrong gear or neutral—new drivers often forget to shift gears and rev the engine in vain. Insufficient transmission fluid pressure can also cause automatic transmission cars to stall, so check if the pressure gauge is normal. It's advisable to stop the engine immediately and troubleshoot, starting with simple checks like releasing the brake and verifying gear settings. If that doesn’t work, find a reliable repair shop to fix it. Regularly replacing the clutch disc can prevent such headaches—don’t wait until you're stranded on the road to regret it.
As someone who frequently tinkers with vehicles, I believe the reasons for a car not moving after ignition are far more complex. The most likely culprit is an issue with the automatic transmission, such as internal valve body blockage or solenoid valve failure, which can interrupt power transmission, causing the engine to roar while the car remains stationary. For manual transmissions, it's probably a damaged clutch pressure plate causing slippage, making the pedal feel loose and powerless. Other factors include a broken driveshaft—if there's unusual noise under the car, be cautious. Wheel bearing seizure is rare but dangerous, especially after rain when rust exacerbates friction. Additionally, the engine idle might be too high but unable to handle the load, requiring a check for clogged intake systems. I recommend using a multimeter to test the electrical system or gently rocking the car to gauge resistance, but avoid forcing it to prevent damage. It's best to tow it to a professional repair shop early to avoid minor issues escalating—regular maintenance of the transmission and engine is key.
