7 Reasons Why Car Engine Starts But Doesn't Run

You turn the key, the engine starts normally, but the car still won't move? This is a situation many drivers have encountered, and the cause is not simple. The engine running but the car won't move is often related to a fault in the transmission, gearbox or electronics. Find out with Gartz 7 common causes and effective solutions to avoid getting into awkward situations on the road.

1. Gearbox problem

Token:The car won't shift into gear or shifts but the car stays stationary.
Reason:Low gear oil, degraded oil quality or internal mechanism failure.
Solution:Check and replacesuitable gearbox oil like Gartz ATF G4 or Gartz CVT Goldfor automatic and CVT vehicles.

2. Clutch is worn or stuck

Token:The car starts, shifts into gear but does not move even when the clutch is released.
Reason:Clutch is slipping, burning or excessively worn.
Solution:The clutch should be inspected and replaced if damaged. Also, quality engine oil should be used to avoid excess pressure on the clutch.

3. Damaged driveshaft or axle

Token:The car makes a strange noise under the chassis when shifting gears, the car does not move.
Reason:Broken, stripped or damaged drive shaft.
Solution:Take the car to the garage for mechanical inspection and timely replacement.

4. Handbrake not fully released

Token:The engine is running but the car is sluggish and does not move.
Reason:The driver forgot to release the handbrake or the handbrake system got stuck.
Solution:Check the handbrake manually or electronically. Do not accelerate as this may burn the brake pads.

5. Transmission sensor or control system failure

Token:The car is in gear but does not respond, the dashboard reports an error.
Reason:Neutral Safety Switch, TCM control box error.
Solution:Use OBD2 scanner to check. If necessary, reset or replace the sensor.

6. Insufficient gearbox hydraulic pressure

Token:The vehicle does not move, especially after a cold start.
Reason:Lack of gear oil or oxidized oil, loss of viscosity.
Solution: Use Estremo ATF Care additiveHelps to fill pressure, restore hydraulic systems and clean valve bodies.

7. Broken transmission shaft or damaged control module

Token:The car starts smoothly, shifts gears but there is no response at all.
Reason:Broken internal transmission shaft, ECU error, no command transmission.
Solution:Have the entire transmission and electronics system checked at a reputable garage.

Gartz's Advice for Drivers and Garages

To prevent the car from starting but not running, please:

Regular maintenance of gearbox and engine.
Use engine oil and train oilHigh quality, suitable for each type of vehicle (refer to oil lines fromGartz).
Check the drive system and sensors periodically.
Use supporting additives such as Estremo ATF Careto restore old gearbox, save repair costs.