Why does an automatic transmission car suddenly stop moving when reversing?
2 Answers
The reasons why an automatic transmission car does not move when reversing may include the following: Accidentally pressing the auto-hold button: Enabling this function increases safety when waiting at traffic lights or crossing zebra crossings by preventing the car from moving without pressing the accelerator. Once the auto-hold function is deactivated, releasing the brake will allow the car to move forward or reverse. Electronic parking brake not released or improper gear shifting: If the electronic parking brake is not released or the gear shifting is not properly engaged, the reverse gear may not work. Simply release the electronic parking brake and adjust the gear shifting method. Transmission issues: Internal transmission failure. First, check if the transmission fluid level is too low and whether the main oil pressure and gear oil pressure are normal. Then, verify if the gear switch signal is normal, the wiring from the transmission computer to the shift solenoid valve is intact, and the gear solenoid valve is functioning properly. If all these are normal, it indicates an issue with the internal control system of the transmission, requiring disassembly to inspect the internal components.
I've seen many similar cases where an automatic transmission car suddenly stops while reversing, mostly due to transmission issues. It could be insufficient or deteriorated transmission fluid, leading to poor lubrication and preventing gears from engaging properly. Alternatively, the oil pump might be faulty, lacking sufficient pressure to operate. Electronic sensors should also be considered—for instance, a faulty position sensor might cause the onboard computer to mistakenly think the car is still in drive and restrict reverse gear. Sometimes, it's a mechanical issue like a problematic differential. Try turning the engine off and restarting it first; this might temporarily resolve some misdiagnoses. Regular transmission fluid maintenance is key to prevention—changing it every two years can reduce risks. Additionally, check if the battery voltage is stable, as system instability when voltage is too low can also cause problems. Safety first—if the issue persists, park in a safe location and call for professional inspection.
