Car Won’t Go Forward But Will Reverse
Written by Craig B

Car Won’t Go Forward But Will Reverse

Not unlike having a small child, a car requires careful handling, immediate action when there is ana issue and regular check up’s. But sometimes issues arise without prior warning. A good example is why will the car will not move in drive but will in reverse.

Transmission Issues

Especially in automatic transmission cars, the automatic transmission usually only gos in reverse when a component has been damged or failed. There may also be an issue with the speed sensor. Transmission is most likely to be the culprit for the car wont move in drive but will in reverse issue. When the vehicle does not function in one or more gears, you should check the gear shifter. The gear cable could be stretched further than the normal length and will need adjustment. When the car will reverse but not go forward because of worn out solenoids, clutches, or gears. Some issues are simple and you can fix them in your garage. But, professional attention is required when the problem lies with some inner parts.

Transmission Fluid

Low fluid levels is a possible reason for making the car moving to reverse only. Check the level when the engine is hot and when the can vehicle run in neutral. Use the transmission dipstick to see if the fluid is running low. The transmission cannot operate properly when it does not get enough supply of fluid.

Cracked Fluid Tube

A broken fluid tube may also be an issue. When the forward tube at the pipe joint cracks or breaks, the car cannot move forward except for going reverse. The repair is easy as you just need to replace the damaged parts.

Speed Sensor

Even a simple component like a speed sensor can mess up with the car’s transmission system. The sensor provides the ECU information about the vehicle’s speed that ultimately affects the shifting of the gears. If the information is erratic, the transmission may face the problem of working in reverse only.

 

We offer a full range of auto transmission repair and replacement services from automatic transmission to manual transmission to the entire Phoenix Metro area.

*Disclaimer – This is not an actual quote. Your transmission repair or replacement cost could be different than the prices you see on this guide. The only way to get an actual estimate is by searching for transmission repair and replacement shops near you. Contact Automatic Transmission Exchange if you are in the Phoenix area and need transmission repair or replacement.