Q: Car not moving after shifting

asked by on February 24, 2016

My car shifts into gear, but it won't move.

Gears slipping when accelerating Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. Your transmission consists of many different components. These mechanical and electrical components need to work in sync in order for your transmission to work properly. Your gear shifter may be moving, but if the solenoids internally are not functioning properly your vehicle will not be able to shift out of park internally. I recommend having a professional mechanic come diagnose your gear issue in order for the correct repairs to be made.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

2013 Dodge Challenger without key fob
A lot of money if you go to the dealer. Hope that you can find a good locksmith around here. Or call YourMechanic.com and see if they have a mechanic in your area that can reprogram it, because mobile guys...
Rear differential noise
The noise is not coming from the pinion seal, but the pinion bearings are bad and this is why the pinion seal is leaking. You will need to have the rear end bearings and seals replaced (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/pinion-seal-replacement). If you'd like...
Car will not shift, speedomete is erratic..
Hey there: It's possible that the speedometer sensor is the source of your shifting and speedometer issues. The speedometer sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-speedometer-sensor) is designed to register the driveshaft’s rotational speed and relay this information through the speedometer cable and to the...
Service stabilizer and traction control warning is on.
Your car is equipped with wheel speed sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/wheel-speed-sensor-replacement) at each of the four wheels which monitor wheel speed while relaying this information constantly to the ABS and traction control system which are controlled by the car's ECU. When the...
There is a humming coming from the front tire. I checked the tire for a possible wheel bearing issue but the vertical shake of tire was solid.
A tight feeling when shaking the tire vertically does not always completely rule out the wheel bearing (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/wheel-bearings-replacement). A technician with a stethoscope or electronic hearing device can listen to the wheel as it is rolling and compare the type...
My car makes a loud screeching noise whenever I turn the ac on, it stops after a few seconds. Could this be a bad compressor?
Hi there: It is very possible that your AC compressor is the source of this type of noise. Much like other accessories driven by the engine’s belts, the AC compressor has several interior components and uses a sealed bearing to...
Weird dentist drill type noise from under hood after a cold start.
Hi there. The noise sounds like the serpentine belt is slipping. Try removing the belt and see if the noise goes away. If the noise goes away, then either the belt is worn and needs replaced or the tensioner is...
Hi Patrick, I was told by my machanic when my engine light sparked in that I need a oxegen sensor, and said that it has to be fixe
Oxygen sensors are tested using an automotive scope or oscilloscope. In your circumstance, if there are more than 100,000 miles on the sensor, the sensor output should be verified on a scope. The mechanic should show you the output waveform...
So I have a 2006 Chevy Cobalt LS (used) with roughly 870,00 Miles. I have been driving it for about 2 months now. All of a sudden
Hi Amie. Thanks for contacting us today. A rattling noise like you have described is often caused by a loose bracket, belt or pulley. On the driver side, a power steering pulley could be the source of this noise, while...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Photographer
If If you are a photographer, and you’re considering buying a used car, the big thing to consider is the type of photography you do. Thanks to the advances in digital photography, chances are you’re not hauling around a lot...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Support Bearing
Common signs include unusual noises and shuddering during acceleration.
How to Replace a Transmission Speed Sensor
Transmission speed sensors accurately calculate a car's road speed. If this sensor is faulty, a Check Engine Light will indicate the driver.