Car won't move in drive but goes in reverse? Need help!

Technical Discussions
1

I’ve run into a pretty perplexing problem with my car, and I’m hoping some of you experts might have some insight.

Here’s the situation:

  • When I shift my car into drive, it doesn’t move at all. Just sits there.
  • However, when I put it in reverse, it works perfectly fine and drives back without any issues.

I’m not overly knowledgeable about car mechanics, but I’m starting to think this might be related to the transmission or something in the drivetrain. Here are a few details:

  • The car has been shifting a bit roughly lately.
  • I checked the transmission fluid and it seems low, but I’m not sure if that’s the whole issue.
  • There haven’t been any unusual noises, just this sudden inability to move forward.

Has anyone experienced a similar issue? What steps should I take to troubleshoot this? Are there any specific things I should check or look for? I’m a bit anxious about what this could mean for repairs and costs, so any advice or guidance would be hugely appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help!

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2

It sounds like a transmission issue. Check your fluid levels; low transmission fluid can cause problems like this.

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3

I agree! A quick fluid check is a great first step before diving deeper into possible solenoid issues.

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4

Sounds like your solenoid could be malfunctioning. Those can prevent the car from engaging properly in drive while still allowing reverse. Have you had any electrical issues lately?

5

Good point, petersentravis. Solenoid issues could definitely be at play. What year is your car? Some models have known issues with their solenoids.

6

It’s a 2014 model. No previous electrical issues, just a strange loss of drive ability recently. Should I check the solenoids specifically?

7

Yes, checking the solenoids is a good idea. If they’re stuck or faulty, it could explain why you’re only getting reverse. A mechanic can test those for you.

8

Also, don’t forget that low fluid levels can damage internal components. If it’s been low for a while, you might be facing some internal mechanical failures.

9

Yikes, that’s scary! Let’s hope it’s something simpler to fix like the fluid or solenoids.

10

Yeah, fingers crossed! But seriously, a good transmission fluid flush might help. Sometimes old, burnt fluid can create issues too.

11

I had a similar problem, and it just turned out to be a stuck gear. Have you noticed any unusual sounds when shifting?

12

There have been a couple of strange noises recently. Maybe I should have that checked too.

13

While you’re at it, do a full diagnostic check. If you have any error codes, they could point you in the right direction quickly.

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14

Definitely! Sometimes it’s just a simple electrical connection causing the problem. Worth a check before replacing anything expensive.

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15

Ha! I wish all car troubles were that simple. Car issues always seem to spiral into something complicated!

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16

In the end, it boils down to a mechanic’s expertise. You’ll be driving smoothly again soon, and maybe even with new upgrades!

17

So true, juliepierce! Every time I think it’s minor, it’s like my car knows and decides to throw another issue my way!

18

It sounds like you might be having a transmission issue. First, check for any error codes using an OBD2 scanner. That can give you a clue about what’s going wrong.

19

Great suggestion! Also, inspect the transmission fluid. It should be red and smell sweet. Dark, burnt fluid could indicate a problem.

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20

Try to perform a basic test too. Start the car and see if it responds when you rev the engine in drive. If it doesn’t move, it might help identify if the issue is in the throttle system or transmission.