Gear stuck in the car: Think you go out of your car for a long drive. Then suddenly he gets stuck while changing the gear. Neither the car moves forward, nor behind and you get stuck in the middle way. Such a situation is not only annoyed, but can also be dangerous in many ways. But do not panic. If you already know the cause and solution of this problem, you can protect yourself and your car from this position. Let’s know about the reasons, symptoms, solutions, and precautions due to the gear getting stuck –
What are the possible reasons for gear getting stuck
There are many main reasons behind the problem of gear getting stuck. Which are as follows –
Clutch plate sticking
Clutch plate sticking the most common cause. If you have a manual car and is stuck while changing the gear, then the biggest reason for this can be the clutch plate sticking. The clutch is not properly dismissed, which prevents gear transmission.
What are symptoms
Despite pressing the clutch, the gear does not change, the car moves with a shock, the deficiency of the transmission fluid or malfunction etc. Both automatic and manual transmission systems have a large role of transmission oil. If it decreases or leaks, then it can be difficult to shift gear.
symptoms
Interruption in gear, smell like burning,
Oil leakage.
Shift lock problem (in automatic cars)
The shifter is locked when the car parks in automatic cars and opens only when the brake is pressed. If there is a malfunction in the locking system, there will be no gear shift.
symptoms
Stuck on gear ‘p’
It is difficult to change the gear if the shifter does not open even after pressing the brake, if the wire or cable connecting the clutch is buried, if the clutch is buried, if it is burnt or breaks, then it becomes difficult to change. This is a common problem in old cars.
symptoms
Clutch looks light or very strict, it takes hard work to change gear
Poor torque converter (in automatic)
The torque converter works to connect gearbox to the engine. The pump, stator or turbine in it can stop the gear shift.
symptoms
If the car starts, but do not proceed, do not react to changing gear, etc.
Gearbox alignment deteriorate
The alignment of gearbox can deteriorate in old or repeatedly opened cars. This can make gear miss or do not feel at all.
symptoms
The gear leaves again and again,
The gear lever look loose or moving,
Solution – What to do when gear gets stuck?
Turn off the car and start again. The first solution is to keep the car closed for some time, then press the clutch and gently put it in another gear and start.
Then try to change the gear by shaking the gear. Sometimes by giving a slight shock, the shift liver comes to its place. But do not do it with much force. Apply hand brakes and put in gear ‘N’. When the shifter is locked in the automatic car, first press the brake, apply a hand brake and then slowly put the gear in ‘D’ or ‘R’.
Stand on road or highway? So take care of security first. Put the car on the side. On the spot light. If there is traffic, then put a warning alert back.
Do this work when trapped in a deserted place
If you get stuck in a place where there are no facilities related to maintenance of the vehicle and gear has stopped working in your car, then let the engine cool down. Then try by shifting gear. If the car still does not run, then locate the mechanic from mobile. Call close help or Tow Truck
Prevention- Take care of these things
Get servicing from time to time. Get gearbox oil check. Get the clutch plate, wire, linkage checked. The servicing of the transmission system is required every 20,000–30,000 km.
Caution while starting the car
Always keep gear in ‘N’. Change the gear only by pressing the clutch completely. Shift only by pressing the brake in an automatic car
Change transmission oil on time
If you are driving a manual car, change transmission oil every 40,000 km.
In automatic it can also occur after 50,000 km, but investigation is necessary
Update ECU (ECU)
Today’s cars are controlled by gear shifting computers. Keep updating the ECU, especially if the vehicle looks wrong.
Be sure to check the transmission check before leaving on the road trip. Place basic tools and tow rope in the car.
Always keep emergency numbers, insurance paper and RSA cards in the car.
How to reach the mechanic?
You can resort to mobile apps. Find a nearby workshop from an app like Google Maps, JustDial or Cardekho.
Roadside assistance facility can be used. Many companies like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata provide free RSA.
Take local help. Small mechanics can also be found near village or highway dhabas, for initial help.
It can be common for gear to get stuck in the car, but you can get out of it. Timely maintenance and vigilance can protect you from this mess. If you pay attention in time, the journey will always be safe and enjoyable.
