Truck Won’t Move In Any Gear Automatic Transmission – Details Explained!

The capability to operate without user intervention benefits trucks with automatic transmissions. But we frequently discover the engine starts but the gear does not perform.

So, the truck owner says: “The Truck Won’t Move In Any Gear Automatic Transmission. What should we do to make the truck move? This article will let you know about the solution.

However, you should first identify the issue before you can fix it. Automatic transmission troubles, missing gears, engine difficulties, low fluid levels or fluid leaks, damaged torque converters, malfunctioning clutches, and valve body issues are commonly encountered. It’s time to deal with the problem and solve all the issues in your car or truck.

Why Does My Truck Go Into Gear But Not Move?

A front-wheel-drive vehicle or van potentially encounters one or both of its front axles breaking or pulling away from the transaxle or transmission. Make sure you stop moving forward or backward. The transmission can’t create the hydraulic pressure it needs to operate because it has lost two or more quarts of its 8–16-quart capacity.

Related Article: why does my car go into gear but not move?

What are the signs of a blown transmission?

The common issues we face with the clutch system are a broken synchronizer ring, a blocked fuel filter, an electrical system issue, a leakage, a shifter cable, or even a problem with the valve body of your automatic transmission that won’t move the truck. Let’s talk about them in detail.

What is an Automatic Transmission System by the way?

The transmission is recognized as an AT, a multi-speed transmission employed in motor vehicles powered by internal combustion engines. Under typical driving settings, the driver is not required to change forward gears. Ain’t this magical? But sad when it breaks down.

However, sensors are used by automated transmissions to detect the need for a gear shift. The planetary gear set helps to run the automatic transmission process. 

The Possible Factors Behind Truck Won’t Move Any Gear

Well, it’s time to get to the main point. Let’s talk about the possible reasons and solutions for the truck not moving.

Faulty Indication of Automatic Transmission

Problem

1. The first and most frequent problem is a breakdown in the auto transmission control unit.
2. A problem with the transmission control module (TCM) could result in dashboard issues.
3. The car will continue to operate while in drive while the transmission cracks, but you cannot reverse if the fluid level drops below a particular class. 
4. Additionally, the gear won’t function when changing to “D” mode, and RPM rises.

Solution

• In that situation, check the vehicle’s battery first.
• If the voltage is less than 12 volts, verify it with a multimeter.
• Alternatively, you can hire a skilled mechanic to fix the problem.

Excessive Clicking Noise

Problem

You might notice the truck is not moving or maybe the BMW goes into gear but won’t move with a clicking noise. What’s wrong?

1. There’s a chance you’ll hear humming, buzzing, clicking, or buzzing noises. A sign of planetary gear damage, a broken bearing, or another internal issue develops the problem. 
2. Another cause of buzzing could be a leaking seal or a faulty inside sealing surface.
3. The problem is the fluid level.
4. Worn-out materials can also stop the truck.

Related clicking noise: Honda CRV won’t start clicking noise.

Solution

• Repair any damaged gears.
• Replace any worn-out metal bands or pulleys.
• Increase the fluid level.
• Transmission replacement is required.

Grinding & Shaking

Problem

1. You will likely have trouble with shaking or grinding, which are typically caused by broken manual transmissions or gear problems.
2. Whenever the manual or regular gearbox grinds while you change gears, the problem is usually connected to the clutch of your car.
3. You will notice broken shift synchronizer rings inside of the car transmission or a wear-out or controlling difficulty with the shifter.
4. Or the oil or fluid is missing.

Solution

• A lubricant called transmission fluid protects the transmission from harm as it travels through it.
• It avoids the gears rubbing against one another.
• It’s necessary to replace the clutch on the manual transmission.

Burning Smell Inside

Problem

1. In order to prevent wear and damage to the parts, transmission fluid keeps them cold and greased. A burning smell is usually brought on by the fluid leak, though. 
2. A burning smell coming from behind the hood is another indication that fluid is overheating.
3. Also, everything eventually gets destroyed and starts to burn due to increased friction, corrosion, and the accumulation of more sludge and debris.

Solution

• As instructed by the manufacturer, check the level & condition of the transmission dipstick.
• Or, you would need a few extra parts to resolve the problems.

Read more: how to read a dipstick with dots?

Check the Ignition Switch

Problem

Can a bad ignition switch cause transmission problems? Your automobile can be stopped by the key inside the ignition. Let’s see some more reasons.

1. Your truck won’t run if the ignition switch has problems.
2. Because it regulates the flow of transmission fluid throughout the transmission, the solenoid failure might have an impact on functionality.
3. If the ignition switch is faulty, you will notice that the transmission control unit is not receiving power.
4. Additionally, while trying to start the truck, you can observe lights going on and off.

Read More: Subaru transmission problems symptoms.

Solution

• Call a pro mechanic to fix it.
• Repair or replace the ignition key.

Not Enough Transmission Fluid

Problem

1. Power is transferred through the transmission fluid, so if there is a shortage, power cannot be delivered and driving capacity will be compromised.
2. No matter the gear, an automatic or manual transmission, the truck won’t move.

Solution

• Check the fluid level.
• Ensure that there is enough liquid.

Missing Link

Problem

Daily tear & wear and lack of routine maintenance are the main causes of malfunctioning automatic links.

There is a danger that the shift linkage will become separated and the shifter will break or separate and slip.

Solution

• Check the truck’s underside.
• Hire a certified professional to service it.

Proper Gear Installation

Problem

1. The transmission control unit may have issues if the gear position sensor or switch gives a faulty signal.
2. For instance, your car won’t move when the gear is in D and first gear while TCM assumes it’s in neutral.
3. When in driving mode, a defective TCM makes odd noises.

Solution

• View the dashboard of your truck.
• Make sure the gear position fits the transmission.

Poor Torque Converter

Problem

1. Power transfer from the gearbox to the engine and wheels, Therefore, if it is broken, it will result in the wheel or engine problems.
2. A poor torque converter might result from using contaminated transmission fluid, leaving the dirty filter in place, and disregarding the warning signs.
3. It might cause a strange sound at the beginning.
4. Also, start to stall when gear changes.

Solution

• Remove and check the transmission.
• Or have a professional handle it.

Engagement of Parking Brake

Problem

1. The truck can also be stopped by using the parking brake.
2. If you choose a manual transmission, your truck can have difficulty maintaining forward movement.

Solution

• Disengage the truck.
• While performing the procedure, make sure nobody is close to the truck.

Defective Valve Body

Problem

1. In addition to their wear and tear, dirty transmission fluid can clog hydraulic channels.
2. While shifting gears, a damaged valve body can cause vibration or stall.
3. Noises or knocking when shifting down or going backward.
4. A lot of shifting, slippage, or low shifting could occur.

Solution

• Remove the gearbox.
• The solenoids, tunnels, and valves that make up the mechanical powertrain valve body are labyrinth system that delivers the transmission fluid. So, check them out to be repaired.

Worn Out Clutch

There is a clutch master cylinder and a clutch slave cylinder in your truck’s automatic transmission. The disc clutches are in charge of coupling the engine and transmission. Let’s see what happens if it fails.

Problem

1. When you divert your immediate focus from the truck, the clutch may wear out or break, and gears may slip or snap.
2. Even though engine revolutions may rise, a low speed indicates that the clutch is slipping.
3. You cannot shift into third gear, reverse, and hear blows while doing so.
4. Failure of the clutch disk to release the flywheel when the clutch pedal is depressed.

Solution

• The transmission and several other parts must be removed.
• If the fluid level is good but the clutch is sliding, replace the clutch kit.
• When passing a smartphone driver who is traveling 15 miles per hour slower than the speed limit, try to use a soft clutch.
• Or you could contact a specialist to handle the issue.

Blocked Filter

Problem

1. Filters may become clogged with dust or hazardous substances.
2. Make a whiny noise.
3. The engine won’t be able to travel far or might not start.

Solution

• The proper intervals are listed in your owner’s manual.
• Proper maintenance
• Every 30,000 miles or two years, the transmission filter needs to be changed.

OBD2 Error Codes

Problem

1. The Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) has identified a problem when a vehicle’s “check engine” light activates.
2. Occasionally, there are certain global error codes.
3. Another clue that prevents your truck from moving could be this one.

Solution

• Some OBD2 scanners are unable to read transmission codes. Get the code first.
• For the particular truck you want to scan, the scan tool needs to have a multi-system diagnostic capability in order to access the transmission codes.

Anyway, aside from these issues, overdriving can disturb transmission. You might also notice no power or engine light issues. Make sure you fix it so you can run the truck again.

Six Effective Ways to Prevent Automatic Transmission from Switching Gears

• On chilly winter days, make sure your transmission system warms up and operates at maximum output.
• To move the truck, select the first gear.
• Always check the transmission fluid level to make sure it is at a high standard.
• Switch the transmission shifter to each setting and hold it for 5 to 10 seconds before moving the car.
• Do not load other vehicles or trailers.
• Therefore, you should typically replace the transmission fluid per 37,000 to 62,000 miles or 60 to 100 thousand kilometers.

FAQ

Final Words

Now, we have stepped into the finality section of the topic: “Truck Won’t Move In Any Gear Automatic Transmission.” This article has covered all the possible issues and solutions regarding why trucks won’t move and auto transmission problems.

If you are in trouble overcoming gearbox issues, simply take a look at the transmission system, electrical issue, leakage, or any other part damaged to fix it. However, we have all the solutions above. Fix it and enjoy the truck ride!