Car Won’t Move in Drive or Reverse: Gearbox Causes
The engine starts and runs, but the car doesn’t move, or barely moves, when you select Drive or Reverse.
Common causes
These are the usual reasons for this symptom in an automatic gearbox. More than one can be involved, which is why we diagnose before quoting.
- Very low transmission fluid (ATF)
- A failed torque converter
- Worn or broken parts inside the gearbox
- A broken or loose gear selector cable or linkage
- Gearbox control unit faults
What to do now
- Don’t keep revving the engine to make it move
- Check for red fluid under the car
- WhatsApp Jacky: if the car can’t move, it is towed in free during office hours
Why it pays to check early
An automatic gearbox rarely fixes itself. A fault that starts as a sensor, a solenoid or low fluid can, if the car keeps being driven, wear the clutches and other internal parts, and a simple repair can turn into a full overhaul. Finding the cause early usually means a smaller, cheaper fix, which is why we diagnose first and quote before any work starts.
How we find and fix it
- Tell us what’s happening. WhatsApp 8430 9665 with your car model and the symptom.
- Diagnostic from S$30. We read the transmission fault codes and check the gearbox to find the actual cause.
- Clear quote first. You know the fault and the price before any repair starts.
- Repair with warranty. All repairs come with a standard 6-month warranty unless otherwise stated.
Related services
Questions about this problem
Does a car that won’t move always need a new gearbox?
How much does it cost to fix?
What customers say about Jacky
“… Arranged an appointment with Jacky and drove my BMW 5 series to let him check. Workshop was impressive from the setup …”
Ulysses Wang · BMW 5 Series
“… I was initially very worried about the repair cost when my Audi A4 gearbox was diagnosed to be faulty. But Jacky was very patient and professional in explaining to me the overhaul process and the quoted price was below what I have expected. My car was ready after 3 days and was given a 6 months warranty as well. I would definitely recommend my friends to them for any gearbox issues.”
Alvin Lee · Audi A4
Our workshops in Woodlands and Jalan Lam Huat
Woodlands (Wave 9)
71 Woodlands Industrial Park E9, #01-25 Wave 9
Singapore 757048
- Mon – Fri
- 9:00am – 6:00pm
- Saturday
- 9:00am – 3:00pm
- Sun & PH
- Closed
Other gearbox problems
Transmission check light on
The engine or transmission check light comes on while driving. Some cars also hold one gear (often called “limp mode”) to protect the gearbox.
What it means →Lack of response
You press the accelerator and the car hesitates, or there is a delay before it goes into Drive or Reverse.
What it means →Can’t change gear
The car stays in first gear, or only shifts up to third, when moving off or while driving.
What it means →