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Why is my automatic car not changing gear?

I tried to leave for the store today, but my car wouldn’t change gears and I had to get a ride with a friend. I have an automatic car, so I’m not sure what’s going on with it. Why is my automatic car not changing gear?

avatar
Payton Ternus · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m sorry to hear about your car trouble, these problems always happen when we least expect it.
If your automatic
car
 isn’t changing gear, there are a few possible causes of the problem. You will most likely need to see a mechanic so they can accurately diagnose the issue and get it fixed. Here are the most common causes of an automatic car not changing gear:
  • Damaged or misaligned gears
  • Dirty transmission fluid, or low fluid levels
  • Failed electronic transmission sensor
  • Faulty battery charging system
  • Parking on a steep incline
  • Stretched, damaged, or misadjusted cables or linkage
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