What to Do When the Car Can Start but Won't Move?
2 Answers
The piston ring of the brake caliper may be stuck and needs to be replaced. Alternatively, the metal plate fixing the brake pads in the brake caliper may be deformed, requiring replacement of the brake pad's metal plate. The brake pads and brake disc may be rusted and stuck together. If the car is parked in a relatively humid area for a period, the brake pads and brake disc can rust and stick together. Release the handbrake and it is advisable to contact a professional auto repair shop or 4S store by phone to seek assistance from professionals.
I've encountered this situation quite a few times. The most common issue is the transmission being stuck in Park (P) without fully disengaging. Turn the key to the ON position without starting the engine, press the brake pedal, and try shifting the gears back and forth. If you hear a 'click' sound from the gear lever but the car doesn't move, it's likely that the micro switch inside the shifting mechanism is faulty. If the car suddenly rolls when parked on a slope, it might be due to a stuck brake caliper or handbrake cable—immediately pull the handbrake tight and turn off the engine. Once, I came across an old BMW where water ingress into the transmission computer caused signal loss; the gear lever could wobble but wouldn't engage any gear. In any case, never stomp on the accelerator. First, turn on the hazard lights, get out to check if the tires are obstructed by foreign objects, or feel if the brake discs are scorching hot.
