Q: Unable to shift into gear
My Cavalier is an automatic and I am unable to shift into gear. I believe the gear shift lever, T-handle, is broken.
Recommended Services
| Not able to change gears Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
Hello. If the shifter will not move than that is typically a failure in the shift interlock which keeps the shifter locked in park until the brakes are applied. See if the brake lights are working. If they are not then the problem is the brake switch. If the lights work then there is a circuit issue. Most of the time if the switch is fine then there is a wiring issue where it enters the shifter. The wires tend to break here. A mechanic would need to take the shifter apart in order to test the wiring. I recommend having a professional mechanic test your transmission to see what repairs are needed to get your car functioning like normal again.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
Window regulator not working
Hello. I have seen this quite often on this vehicle. The problem is typically always the window motor. The motor fails and will not longer be able to move the window up or down. I typically start by removing the...
My friend's car is vibrating
The symptoms you described do make it sound like an issue with the torque converter. It sounds like, while you're driving, the torque converter lock up clutch is slipping occasionally, causing the vibration to happen. It is possible that there...
Add refrigerant to a/c unit, how much$$.
The best thing to do in your situation would be to have an a/c performance test done (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/heating-ac-inspection). This test will use a refrigerant recycling machine to test the high and low pressure sides of your a/c system to lead...
Car overheats only at low speed
Hello. It is possible that the water pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/water-pump-replacement) is not pumping properly or that the radiator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/radiator-replacement) has a partial clog which is causing the car to overheat at low speeds. Have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic,...
Should I replace the timing belt?
Your engines timing belt is recommended to be replaced every 90,000 miles. If you cannot find proof that the timing belt was replaced at 90,000 miles then I would recommend timing belt be replaced. (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/timing-chain-replacement) This engine is an interference...
How much is steering wheel airbag? 2007 Mercedes S550
Hello - unfortunately, that is not a service YourMechanic can offer at this time. Thanks for thinking of us though!
Annoying loud noise when starting the car.
The noise is the drive belt slipping on the pulleys on the engine. Check the tensioner (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/drive-belt-tensioner-replacement) to see if it feels loose and not tight. If the tensioner is loose, then I recommend replacing it. Also if the belt...
Hi I have a 2004 2.4L automatic Hyundai Sonata. I change the timing belt as it has chewed teeth. I also change the headgasket and
Hi there. Since you completed so many different repairs, it unfortunately opens the door to multiple possible issues that might be the source of your hard to start issue. The first thing I would do is knock off the easy...
2011 Audi SUV Q7 supercharger EPC LIGHT CAME ON THEN SAID DO NOT EXCEED ENGONE OVER 4000 TO ME WHAT IS THIS
When you kicked into passing (lower) gear, the engine was immediately heavily loaded. If there is any fault, or "weakness" in the ignition, fuel or air induction systems, such will become more readily apparent in those conditions. So, for example,...
Related articles
How Does a Clutch Work in a Manual Transmission?
The The clutch in a car transmission is what works to engage and disengage the drive shaft’s moving parts. In a manual transmission, the driver has to manipulate a pedal or a lever in order to shift gears. The clutch...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
The The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu ECO hybrid is an interesting car in the world of mid-size family sedans. Unlike other popular hybrids, it doesn’t have a full-sized electric motor that takes over when the car starts. Instead, it uses eAssist...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Plumber
Plumbers Plumbers need to carry around all manner of tools and supplies. If you’re plumbing a large building, or even a decent sized home, you’re going to need a vehicle that has quite a bit of cargo capacity. A car...
Browse other content
Cities
Estimates
Maintenance