Transmission Won't Shift
Your transmission is stuck in one gear or won't shift properly.
Quick Assessment
Stop driving and seek immediate service. Continued driving may cause severe damage.
Estimated repair cost:
$200 - $4,000
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Symptoms & Causes
Symptoms to Watch For
- 1Vehicle stuck in one gear
- 2Won't shift into reverse
- 3Won't shift into drive
- 4Skips gears when shifting
- 5Delayed response when shifting
- 6Transmission warning light on
- 7Manual shift mode not working
Common Causes
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- Failed shift solenoids
- Damaged shift linkage
- Valve body problems
- Transmission control module failure
- Worn clutches or bands
- Failed sensors
Understanding Transmission Won't Shift
When your transmission won't shift, it may be stuck in one gear (sometimes called "limp mode"), refuse to go into a specific gear, or have difficulty shifting between gears. This can make your vehicle undrivable or severely limit its capability. The cause could be as simple as low fluid or as complex as a failed valve body or electronic control issue.
Repair Options
Depending on the cause and severity, here are the typical repair approaches for transmission won't shift:
- Shift linkage adjustment or repair
- Solenoid replacement
- Valve body repair or replacement
- TCM reprogramming or replacement
- Sensor replacement
- Transmission rebuild
Cost Factors
The repair cost for transmission won't shift ($200 - $4,000) depends on several factors:
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Transmission Won't Shift is a serious issue that can worsen rapidly. Ignoring it may lead to complete transmission failure, leaving you stranded and facing much higher repair costs.
Transmission Won't Shift FAQ
This is often "limp mode" - a safety feature that protects your transmission from further damage when a problem is detected. It typically requires professional diagnosis to identify and fix the underlying issue.
Yes, a weak battery or alternator can cause erratic transmission behavior in modern vehicles since the transmission control module needs consistent voltage to function properly.
If your vehicle is in limp mode (stuck in one gear), you may be able to drive slowly to a repair shop. However, if the transmission is completely non-functional, have the vehicle towed to avoid further damage.
Next Steps for Transmission Won't Shift
Ready to get your transmission fixed? Here's what to do next.
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Schedule Diagnosis
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Experiencing Transmission Won't Shift?
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a professional diagnosis. Symptoms, causes, and repair costs are general guidelines based on industry data and may vary based on your specific vehicle and situation. Always consult with a certified transmission specialist for an accurate diagnosis and repair recommendation.