Q: While driving it stated making a loud noise. Then it started to jerk, it began to brake itself and wouldn't move.

asked by on February 18, 2017

While driving it began to make a loud noise. Then it started to jerk, brake itself and wouldn't move, especially when I had to stop at a red light

My car has 80000 miles.

This may be a sign of low transmission fluid or a faulty transmission control solenoid. As you know, automatic transmissions use pressurized hydraulic fluid to change gears. Every time a gear change is required, the car’s computer activates a transmission solenoid, which directs transmission fluid into the valve body to engage the correct gear. When this is faulty or not working properly, this can cause a delay in gear shifting or in some cases cause the car to not shift at all. This type of problem is amplified any time the transmission is low on fluid creating a drop in hydraulic pressure.

This may also indicate a failing speed sensor. The transmission speed sensor is a magnetic sensor that provides information related to the speed of the input and output shafts in the transmission, allowing the transmission to shift smoothly. The sensor counts the internal number of revolutions of the transmission and transmits that information to the transmission control unit, where the data is used to determine the rotational speed. As the rotation increases, the control unit directs the changing of gears. When this is not working properly, this may cause the transmission to shift erratically or in some cases not at all. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to take the car for a test drive to more specifically determine the cause for this.

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


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I lock and unlock the rear windows?
If you have kids, you may not want them to have access to raising or lowering the windows. You can use the window lock switch to prevent the rear window Power button from working. Locate the Window Lock button on...
Car died twice
A failed battery can put tremendous stresses on the charging system. Once the charging system stop working it is possible for the engine to shut off due to low voltage in the vehicle electrical system. The battery should be replaced...
Car has little vibration. I wonder that is problem cause of power steering wheel fluid or other reason.
Hello. If you have a vibration in the steering, it more than likely has nothing to do with the power steering fluid. The pump would make noise if it needed the fluid also. If it vibrates when hitting the brakes,...
Transmission "popping" out of gear
This may suggest failing transmission synchros. As you may know, when a clutch drags, it is not letting go of the disk fully which overloads the synchros and burns up the friction surfaces quickly. Synchros work by speeding up or...
Hesitation
This may be a variety of different possibilities such as a dirty or faulty mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement) or a faulty throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement) or dirty fuel injectors. The mass air flow sensor is a unit in the...
Do the compressor supposed to always be turning if it is not turned on
If the A/C switch in the passenger compartment is turned off, any air delivered by the in-dash blower should simply be the same temperature as the passenger compartment, that is not chilled. If you have the A/C switch off and...
I have a 1994 toyta camry XLE V6 what is better to use for an oil change, Conventional or Synthetic Oil?
Using a good quality synthetic oil will cost you about twice as much as conventional oil, but you only have to change it half as often. So there's not much of a long term difference in cost unless you have...
Rattling noise while throttling and power loss uphill.
It sounds like you may have a stretched out belt or potentially a worn out pulley bearing that may be causing the rattling noise (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/loud-squealing-or-rattling-is-coming-from-engine-inspection) you are describing. In some cases, loose exhaust components may also cause a bit of...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Lexus HS 250h
Hybrids Hybrids have come a long way in the last few years, and the 2012 Lexus HS 250h is a prime example of just how much they’ve evolved. This sedan is quiet, composed and chock-full of high tech equipment. Key...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Lexus LFA
When When it comes to supercars, Lexus probably isn’t the first name that comes to mind. The 2012 Lexus LFA was the automaker’s attempt to change that. It’s a compact coupe that seats two and offers blistering acceleration. However, the...
Understanding the Lexus Oil Life Monitor Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Lexus Oil Life Monitor (OLM) indicates when and what service your car needs.