Q: transmission not changing gears

asked by on April 21, 2016

My jetta gls 2002 automatic transmission not changing gears, parking, reverse, neutral works but drive is stuck in 2 gear and wont change !!!
My car has an automatic transmission.

Not able to change gears Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The internal transmission shifting mechanism of the valve body to the forward clutches is not working, or the forward sprag clutches are broken. Only a transmission pressure test would be able confirm if the problem is in the valve body or the gears and clutches inside of the transmission.

The most common failure would be the gears and the transmission would need to be remanufactured or replaced with a used one that is good. A certified mechanic will be able to diagnose your gear problem and find a fix.

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

How do you use the SYNC® system hands-free feature?
SYNC® is Ford’s on-board computer system. It’s designed to offer a wide range of functionality, from navigation to hands-free calling. Here’s how the steering wheel controls works: Press the Talk button. You should hear a chime/tone. The word “Listening” will...
Do i need a need a new gas cap/do i need an allignment?
Hello! Your question related to the gas cap suggests that you may have the incorrect gas cap installed on your car (if the original problem was in fact the gas cap). Unlike most vehicles in earlier years, these are generally...
Oil light comes on only when I'm stopped at a light
Hi and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. The oil pressure sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-pressure-sensor-replacement) has either a loose connection or the sensor is contacts inside it has corrosion on it. Look at the wires to the oil pressure sensor and make sure that...
Engine misfire, StabiliTrak wiring problem 2010 Chevrolet Equinox
Hello - these are likely unrelated problems - although all frustrating. The engine misfire will require further diagnosis based on ignition codes. There was likely another problem code - perhaps for an ignition coil or misfiring plugs issue (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/engine-misfiring_2). It...
Transmission problem
Of course, be sure the transmission fluid level is correct, the fluid is not contaminated and the filter is not clogged. A fault like the one you are describing is likely to be due to a hydraulic control issue. If...
How many psi does the power steering hose withstand
Two types of hose are used in power steering applications, a low pressure hose for the return (to reservoir) fluid and a high pressure hose for pump discharge. Low pressure hose is generally rated at 400 PSI and operates at...
How often should you flush fluids (power steering, coolant, transmission)...shop says every 2 years? 2007 Honda Odyssey
Hi there - in general, YES, most industry experts recommend changing engine coolant, power steering fluid and brake fluid on 2 year intervals (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/all-about-car-service-indicator-lights-by-brady-klopfer). Changing transmission fluid (and filter) can get into a "religious" discussion. Many vehicles today are delivered...
White smoke coming from hood
Hi there. White smoke coming from the engine is typically steam as opposed to oil burning, so it's quite possible that you may have a coolant leak or other issue not related to an engine failure. When the check engine...
Can you change out a U240e for U660e transmission? They belong to the same family of transmissions, One is just newer and upgraded
Hi John. Thanks for contacting us today. While mechanically they are similar and should align, the problem is more with programming and communication of electronic monitoring systems. It's likely not going to work without customized programming of the ECU.

Related articles

How Long Does Transmission Fluid Last?
Transmission Transmission fluid lubricates all the moving parts of your car transmission, and in an automatic transmission, it also acts as a coolant and viscous fluid that delivers engine power to the transmission. What kind of transmission fluid to use...
A Buyer's Guide to the 2012 Volkswagen CC
At At some point, most of us have to choose between the cars we wanted when were kids and the ones we need for our commute to the office or to pick up our own children. With the 2012 Volkswagen...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Transmission Position Sensor (Switch)
Common signs include the car not starting or moving, transmission going into a different gear than selected, and the vehicle going into limp mode.