Why doesn't the transmission shift when changing gears?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission not moving when shifting gears may be due to the following reasons: 1. Automatic transmission oil pan leakage; 2. Loose linkage or cable between the control handle and the manual valve rocker arm, keeping the manual valve in neutral or park position; 3. Clogged oil pump inlet filter screen; 4. Severe main oil circuit leakage; 5. Damaged oil pump. Below are the troubleshooting or elimination measures: 1. Check for looseness: Inspect the linkage or cable between the automatic transmission control handle and the manual valve rocker arm for looseness. If loose, it should be reinstalled and the control handle position readjusted. 2. Check for blockage: If only a small amount of hydraulic oil flows out from the main oil circuit side pressure hole, with low or almost no oil pressure, open the oil pan and check the oil pump inlet filter screen for blockage. If not clogged, it indicates the oil pump is damaged or there is severe leakage in the main oil circuit, requiring disassembly and inspection of the automatic transmission.
I've personally experienced my car not moving after shifting gears several times, which was incredibly frustrating, especially during rush hour traffic. Every time I shifted, the car just wouldn't budge, and I panicked. Later, I learned some troubleshooting methods from a mechanic friend: first, check if the clutch is severely worn—a slipping clutch in a manual transmission can interrupt power transfer. For automatic transmissions, check the fluid level using the dipstick to measure both the level and color. If the fluid is black or has a burnt smell, it's likely degraded and needs replacement. It could also be a sensor malfunction or hydraulic system pressure loss, preventing the gearshift mechanism from working. In my case, the issue was low fluid level, and adding more made it much smoother. It's recommended to check the transmission fluid during every maintenance service, typically replacing it every 40,000 kilometers to effectively prevent such failures. Driving habits also play a significant role—avoiding sudden acceleration can extend component lifespan. If you notice any abnormalities, pull over immediately to prevent further damage.
