Why Won’t My Car Go Into Gear? Causes and What to Do Next

You start your car, press the pedal, shift the lever — and nothing happens. If you're asking why won’t my car go into gear, it’s a sign that something in your transmission, clutch, or linkage system isn’t functioning correctly. Whether you drive an automatic or manual, not being able to shift into gear is a major problem that needs fast diagnosis.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most common causes of gear-shifting issues and how Marble Falls Auto Center can help get you back in motion.

Low or Leaking Transmission Fluid

For automatic vehicles, transmission fluid plays a critical role in shifting gears. If fluid levels are too low — or if the fluid is dirty — the hydraulic pressure needed to engage gears may be lost.

Warning signs:

• Car won't move when in gear

• Delayed or jerky shifts

• Reddish fluid leaking under the vehicle

We’ll inspect your transmission fluid, check for leaks, and top off or flush the system at Marble Falls Auto Center.

Clutch Issues (Manual Transmissions)

If you’re driving a manual and the car won’t go into gear, chances are the clutch isn’t disengaging properly.

Common causes include:

• Worn-out clutch disc

• Broken or stretched clutch cable

• Air in the hydraulic clutch system

Symptoms may include grinding noises, pedal going to the floor, or inability to shift while the engine is running. We perform full clutch inspections and replacements to restore smooth gear changes.

Why Won’t My Car Go Into Gear? Causes and What to Do Next

Transmission Shift Linkage Problems

Your gear shifter connects to the transmission via a linkage system or cables. If the linkage is broken, disconnected, or misaligned, your gear selector might move — but the transmission won’t respond.

Look for:

• Shifter moves too freely or feels loose

• No resistance when selecting gear

• Gears don’t engage despite correct shift position

We can realign or replace worn linkage components quickly and correctly.

Faulty Shift Interlock (Automatic)

Modern automatic vehicles include a shift interlock system that prevents you from shifting out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is pressed. If the brake light switch or interlock solenoid fails, you won’t be able to shift into gear at all.

Symptoms:

• Gear lever won’t leave “Park”

• No brake lights

• Clicking sound but no movement

We’ll test the electrical components and repair or replace any failed parts right here at Marble Falls Auto Center.

Internal Transmission Failure

In more severe cases, internal damage to the transmission may be preventing the car from engaging gears. This could involve worn clutch packs (automatic), damaged gears, or valve body issues.

Symptoms include:

• Complete loss of drive in one or more gears

• Burning smell or loud clunking

• Transmission warning light

We offer full transmission diagnostics and rebuilds for both automatic and manual systems.

Final Thoughts

Still wondering why won’t my car go into gear? Whether it's low fluid, clutch failure, linkage problems, or internal damage, this isn’t an issue to ignore. Prompt diagnosis and repair can prevent bigger (and costlier) transmission damage down the line.

At Marble Falls Auto Center, we specialize in drivetrain diagnostics and transmission repairs. If your car won't go into gear, let our certified techs get you back in drive — fast.