Can’t Put Car in Gear When Engine Running

If you’re having trouble putting your car in gear when the engine is running, there are a few possible causes.

1. The clutch is not fully engaged.

The clutch is responsible for disengaging the engine from the transmission, allowing you to shift gears. If the clutch is not fully engaged, it will be difficult or impossible to put the car in gear.

To check if the clutch is fully engaged, try starting the car in neutral. If the car starts easily, the clutch is probably not fully engaged. You can try pumping the clutch pedal a few times to see if that helps.

2. The shift linkage is binding.

The shift linkage is the set of rods and levers that connect the gear shift lever to the transmission. If the shift linkage is binding, it can make it difficult or impossible to put the car in gear.

To check if the shift linkage is binding, try moving the gear shift lever through all of the gears with the engine turned off. If the lever feels stiff or difficult to move, the shift linkage may be binding.

3. The transmission is damaged.

If the clutch is fully engaged and the shift linkage is not binding, the problem may be with the transmission itself. Transmission damage can make it difficult or impossible to put the car in gear.

To check if the transmission is damaged, try shifting the car into different gears with the engine turned off. If the car does not go into gear, or if it grinds when you try to shift, the transmission may be damaged.

4. The safety lockout is engaged.

Many cars have a safety lockout that prevents the car from being put into gear if the brake pedal is not depressed. This safety feature is designed to prevent the car from rolling away if the driver accidentally bumps the gear shift lever.

To check if the safety lockout is engaged, try depressing the brake pedal and then shifting the car into gear. If the car goes into gear, the safety lockout is probably engaged.

5. The ignition switch is faulty.

The ignition switch is responsible for sending power to the starter and the fuel pump. If the ignition switch is faulty, it may not send power to the starter, which will prevent the car from starting. Additionally, if the ignition switch is faulty, it may not send power to the fuel pump, which will prevent the car from running.

To check if the ignition switch is faulty, try starting the car in neutral. If the car does not start, the ignition switch may be faulty.

If you are unable to put your car in gear, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic. Driving a car with a faulty transmission can be dangerous, and it can also damage the transmission further.