When your car refuses to shift gears, it can be more than just frustrating—it can be dangerous. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or trying to back out of your driveway, a non-shifting transmission often signals an urgent problem that demands immediate attention. At Cruz Automotive, we know how crucial your vehicle’s transmission is to its overall performance and safety. That’s why we’re breaking down what to do if you find yourself in this situation and why it’s important to seek emergency transmission service near you as soon as possible.
Understanding the Problem: Why Your Transmission Won’t Shift
If your automatic transmission is not shifting, the issue can stem from several causes—some minor and others more serious. Common reasons include:
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- Worn-out transmission bands or clutches
- Electronic sensor failure
- Faulty shift solenoids
- Transmission control module issues
- Mechanical damage inside the transmission
In many cases, the problem develops over time, starting with minor gear hesitation or slipping, until one day, your car simply refuses to move out of park or drive.
What to Do Immediately
- Don’t Force the Shifter
If your transmission isn’t engaging, forcing the gear lever can cause more damage. If you drive an automatic, check if the brake pedal is fully depressed, which is required to shift out of park. - Check Transmission Fluid Levels
Pull over safely, turn off the car, and check the transmission fluid if your vehicle has a dipstick for it. Low or burnt-smelling fluid can be a major red flag and a common cause of shifting issues. - Turn Off and Restart the Vehicle
Sometimes, especially with modern electronically controlled transmissions, restarting the engine can reset the sensors and clear temporary glitches. - Listen and Observe
Pay attention to unusual noises like grinding or clunking, dashboard warning lights, or whether the issue affects all gears or just specific ones. This information will help when you seek professional help. - Call for Emergency Transmission Service Near You
When in doubt, call a trusted professional. A certified mechanic can perform diagnostic testing to identify the issue accurately. At Cruz Automotive, our team is equipped to handle urgent situations with precision and care.
When to Call Cruz Automotive
If you’re in the Holland area and experiencing a shifting issue, Cruz Automotive offers reliable transmission repair service in Holland with a focus on fast diagnostics, accurate repairs, and honest communication. Whether it’s a worn clutch pack or a failed solenoid, we have the expertise to get your transmission working properly again.
We prioritize emergencies and can often get your vehicle assessed the same day. Our technicians use advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the root cause of the problem—saving you time and preventing unnecessary repairs.
Why Immediate Service Matters
Ignoring a shifting problem can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the road. In many cases, the longer you drive with a malfunctioning transmission, the more damage it causes. That’s why you should always take a non-shifting vehicle seriously and seek emergency transmission service near you at the first sign of trouble.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Transmission Failure
- Regularly check and change your transmission fluid
- Don’t overload your vehicle
- Allow the car to warm up before driving in cold weather
- Keep up with scheduled maintenance
- Address small problems before they grow
Transmission issues don’t have to derail your day—or your budget. With proper care and early attention, you can avoid a complete breakdown and costly rebuild.
Contact Cruz Automotive Today!
If your automatic transmission is not shifting or you’re concerned about the performance of your vehicle, don’t wait. Contact Cruz Automotive for expert transmission repair service in Holland. Our ASE-certified technicians are ready to help, whether it’s a quick fix or a major repair. We’re committed to getting you back on the road safely and efficiently.
Give us a call today or stop by our shop to get started with a transmission diagnostic. Emergency transmission service near you is just a phone call away—trust Cruz Automotive to keep your car in gear.