Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Reverse

Your car deciding not to reverse can arise without warning and is not only annoying but dangerous. Without the gears functioning properly, you simply can’t operate a vehicle safely. Let’s look at a few reasons why your car might not reverse.

Transmission Fluid Problems

Check your transmission fluid if your car won’t reverse properly. Low transmission fluid can be the cause. Top it off if the fluid levels are low. Also check to see if your transmission fluid has a smell and is dirty. Good clean automated transmission fluid is for the most part clear with a reddish or pink hue and has a somewhat sweet smell.

Malfunctioning Sensors

Your transmission has several sensors that allow it to run. An electronic sensor sends a message to the powertrain control module to reverse when you shift an automatic transmission into reverse. If the sensor malfunctions or completely fails, then it may not send the correct message or no message at all and will keep the car’s computer from shifting the car in reverse.

Damaged Automatic Valve Body

Most common sign of a failing valve body is various types of gear changing issues. A damaged or worn-out valve body can prevent the correct clutch pack from engaging or even failure to go into gear.

Manual Shifter Problems

Manual transmissions typically have an issue with the shift lockout ring or a damaged gear when they won’t engage in reverse. A bad shifter bushing can also make it difficult to shift into reverse or any other gears. If this happens while you are on the road you won’t be able to slow down or speed up.

Damaged Transmission Teeth

Wear and tear on gear teeth often cause noises that indicate the teeth on the reverse or forward gears have been damaged. The damaged teeth won’t mesh, and this can result in issues with shifting from one gear to another.

At Eagle Transmission Shop in Mesquite, we are here to help you troubleshoot why your car won’t reverse and fix the problem. Give us a call today for all your transmission needs. We service all of the Dallas and surrounding areas like Sunnyvale, Rockwall and more.