Why Can't I Shift Gears in My Subaru?

[VonAmir]

When shifting gears, the brake pedal was not pressed. Types of car gears: Manual transmission, automatic transmission. Gear descriptions: P (Parking) - The P gear is used for parking. It employs a mechanical device to lock the rotating parts of the car, preventing movement. R (Reverse) - The R gear is used for reversing. Unlike manual transmission cars, automatic transmission cars cannot use semi-clutch, so special attention must be paid to accelerator pedal control when reversing. N (Neutral) - The N gear can be used during startup, towing, or temporary stops (e.g., at a red light). To prevent the vehicle from rolling on a slope, always press the brake when in neutral. D (Drive) - The D gear is the forward driving gear. In this gear, the transmission automatically shifts between 1st and overdrive (equivalent to 1st to 4th gear) based on speed and throttle conditions, and is used for normal road driving.

[DeAiden]

My Subaru has had issues with not being able to shift gears before. As a long-time manual transmission driver, experience tells me this is often due to clutch wear or hydraulic system failure. In a manual transmission, you need to press the clutch pedal all the way down to shift gears. If the pedal feels too soft or has abnormal travel, it could be due to hydraulic fluid leakage or a faulty master cylinder. Another possibility is insufficient or dirty transmission fluid, causing gear jamming—you should check the fluid level promptly and replace it if necessary. Another issue could be loose shift linkage cables, especially common in aging Subaru models. If you feel looseness when gently shaking the shift lever, it’s time for a repair. I recommend avoiding forced gear shifts to prevent damage to more expensive components and instead take it directly to a professional repair shop for diagnosis—it’s a low-cost way to avoid major repairs. During regular maintenance, have the technician inspect the clutch and transmission to extend their lifespan and avoid sudden headaches.

[AdrianaFitz]

It's really annoying when you can't shift gears while driving a Subaru. As a young driver, I think it's mostly related to the startup state. Make sure the engine is running; without ignition, there's naturally no power to shift gears. Then, try shifting to neutral or restarting the car—it might be a temporary electronic system glitch that resolves itself. If it's an automatic transmission model, check if it's stuck in the P position without unlocking; low battery voltage can affect system response. Don't force the gear lever; the cable or button might be stuck with debris. In my case, simply cleaning the surrounding clutter fixed the problem. If that doesn't work, call roadside assistance; don't risk continuing to drive. During daily driving, avoid slamming the accelerator to keep the transmission smooth. Although Subaru's performance is excellent, careful maintenance can prevent issues. Regular small checks can save you trouble and money.

[OMakayla]

When encountering gear-shifting issues with a Subaru, start with basic troubleshooting: Ensure the vehicle is started, and for manual transmissions, fully depress the clutch pedal; for automatic transmissions, check if the gear indicator is in the correct position. Insufficient transmission fluid can hinder shifting—promptly check the dipstick and top up with the appropriate fluid. It could also be due to a loose shift linkage cable or rusted connection points; gently wiggle the gear lever to test. Avoid repeated attempts to prevent further damage—seeking professional help is key. Subaru's transmission systems are durable but not immune to wear; early detection leads to quicker resolution.