What is the reason for a car starting normally but not moving when in gear?
2 Answers
The car starts normally but does not move when in gear due to a clutch malfunction. Clutch malfunction: Check for severe slipping, whether all the spline teeth of the clutch driven plate hub and the steel plate rivets are sheared off, or if the steel plate is fractured. Remove the transmission cover and inspect whether the shift fork is broken or if the guide block fixing screws are loose. If the above checks are normal, proceed with the gear engagement test. If the second shaft does not rotate in a certain gear, it indicates that the half-round key of that gear is sheared off. If the second shaft rotates in direct drive but does not rotate in other gears, it means the intermediate shaft support bearings at both ends have collapsed, causing the intermediate shaft to drop. Gear shifting techniques: Shift gears in a timely, correct, smooth, and swift manner. When starting the car, generally use the low gear (first gear). After starting, as long as road conditions permit, promptly and progressively shift to higher gears.
I've encountered this situation quite a few times - the engine starts normally with sound, but the wheels don't move when shifting gears. The most common issue with manual transmissions is clutch system problems, where worn clutch discs or damaged pressure plate springs prevent power transfer. For automatic transmissions, torque converter sticking or low transmission fluid level can also affect power delivery. Don't overlook the braking system either - stuck brake pads, especially after car washes or rainy days when wheel hubs rust, can cause this. Driveshaft failures or broken differentials are equally common. Once problems occur, it's best not to force the vehicle as it may damage more components. Safety first - after parking, try shifting repeatedly into neutral and check if the pedal travel is smooth. Regularly change transmission fluid, inspect clutch discs every 50-60,000 km for manual transmissions - developing good habits prevents trouble. If this happens while driving, pull over immediately and seek professional repair shop assistance. Don't risk continuing to drive - safety outweighs any inconvenience.
