Shifter physically won't move into reverse position
To isolate the problem as either an internal transmission problem,or external to the transmission,(shifter or cable malfunction),the shifter cables should be disconnected from the transmission.On the transmission are two levers,if you have a 5 speed trans.One is the neutral gate lever,and the other is actual gear shift lever.Manipulating the levers manually,see if the transmission will engage into Reverse gear.If the transmission engages into Reverse gear,then the problem is either in the shifter mechanism itself,or the shift cables.If the transmission will not engage into Reverse gear,then the problem is either an internal problem,or possibly a switch seized up,like the reverse gear indicator switch.At this point,i would have an assistant sit in the car,engine off,and run through all the gear selections with the shifter,while watching and looking for a cable not operating to its full stroke.Take the console apart to access the shifter mechanism and visually inspect the assembly.Disconnect the cables and operate them manually,one at a time,while an assistant watches them underhood.Visually inspect the shifter and it's mechanism for a broken,cracked,or damaged component.At this point,the problem should be identified and repaired as either cable or shifter malfunction.
×