Why doesn't the automatic transmission car move when shifting to D gear and accelerating?
2 Answers
The main reason why an automatic transmission car doesn't move when shifting to D gear and accelerating is that the transmission shift valve position sensor signal is incorrect, making it unable to detect which gear it's in. Here are some relevant introductions about automatic transmissions:1. Gear distribution: Generally, there are six positions for gears on automatic transmission cars, from top to bottom: P, R, N, D, S, L.2. Automatic principle: The engine's power is transmitted through the transmission, which is also a key factor affecting fuel consumption. Generally, automatic transmissions consume 10% more fuel than manual transmissions. Whether manual or automatic transmissions, the more gears there are, the more fuel-efficient they are.
I once experienced this awkward situation while driving. I had shifted to D gear, stepped on the gas pedal, but the car didn't move at all—it was really frustrating. After calming down, I first checked the handbrake position and realized I had forgotten to release it; this is the most common mistake, simple yet easily overlooked. If the handbrake isn't the issue, check whether the gear lever is fully engaged in D gear—sometimes it feels like it's in place but isn't properly seated. Another possibility is insufficient or leaking transmission fluid; without enough fluid, power won't transfer, and the engine will rev without moving the car. Additionally, shifting gears only works after pressing the brake, so make sure the foot brake is firmly engaged before trying again. If none of these steps resolve the issue, it might be an internal transmission fault or a failed sensor, requiring professional diagnosis. For safety, avoid forcing the car to move to prevent further damage, and instead pull over safely to seek help from a repair shop.
