If your car has an automatic transmission and it happens to get stuck in one particular gear, there are several potential causes. Thankfully, many of them are relatively easy to fix, so you can get back on the road in no time. Here are some of the most common issues your mechanic will consider when troubleshooting. 

3 Reasons Why Your Gear Shift Won’t Move 

1. Defective Shifter Cable 

The shifter cables link the transmission to the shifter. Vehicles with an automatic transmission have one, while those with a manual transmission have two. If the cable is torn, stretched, or otherwise defective, the gear shift will start malfunctioning. If the shifter cable is the problem, the keys will probably get stuck in the ignition as well. You may also notice that the indicator light doesn't correspond to the correct gear. For example, it may say “Reverse” when the car is still in Park. 

2. Cold Weather

If your gear shift always seems to stick during the colder months, the weather may be to blame. When the temperature drops, the shift lock solenoid can freeze. Seeing as the solenoid enables you to move the shifter, a frozen one will make the gear shift unresponsive. You can combat this issue by storing your vehicle in a climate-controlled space during the winter, like a heated garage. 

3. Faulty Sensors 

Automatic transmissions are equipped with sensors, which let the computer know when it’s time to switch gears. If the vehicle’s computer is unable to read the signals from these sensors, it will trigger limp mode, which essentially locks the vehicle in second or third gear. The purpose of limp mode is to protect the transmission until the motorist can get to a mechanic and address the underlying issue. 

If your gear shift is stuck, head to Transmission Services in Lincoln, NE. Their licensed technicians are equipped to work on virtually every make and model of vehicle. Repairing and replacing transmissions isn’t all they do, though. They also perform regular preventive maintenance, including fluid and filter changes. To explore all their services, visit their website. To schedule work, call (402) 475-3637.