2002 S40, Auto transmission.

The gear selector moves freely from Park all the way down to the bottom, but won't engage into any gear. Occasionally when stopping on a gear, the RPMs will move like the car is experiencing load, but still nothing.

After fiddling around seeing if it will engage, it grinds a bit once moved back up to Park.

Insight would be great. Thanks in advance.

 

Welcome to the Forum!

Have you checked the fluid level? Are you getting the "flashing arrow of death"?

 

Trans is full of fluid.

Not sure what the "flashing arrow of death" signifies, but there's nothing flashing when the car is on.

 

There is an arrow shaped dash light that flashes when the trans has problems. It's definitely better not to have it flashing at the moment.

Ok, is the gear selector actually connected to the trans? Can you watch the gear selector move while a helper shifts?

 

As above, I suspect the shift cables / linkage.
Stan

 

Yes, the linkage is attached. Didn't have someone shift while I watched, but I could easily notice it in different positions as I went from "Park" down to the bottom.

 

1998 S40 (Auto), Won't engage into gear.

Hello Buddy,
I have a similar problem exactly duplicated as your description. Is it possible to know whether you solved yours and how you did it. I live in Africa-Uganda and it is hard to find good Volvo mechanics. Your quick response is highly appreciated.
Thanks

 

I am having the same problem. The car rolls free while in park as well. Have been experiencing some random electrical issues ( alarm sounding, error codes that are not stored, power adapter in car (both) do not work). Very interested in what people have to share on the topic.

 

One of your axles is partially pulled out of the transmission. Could be the right side where the center support bearing has moved on the shaft and allowed the axle to slip partially out of the transmission. Have seen it happen with aftermarket axles. Remove axle, press bearing back into position, use a punch to stake the bearing in place, reinstall and drive away happy. Or might be able to use a hammer to tap the bearing back into position with the axle still in the car.

That's why the car rolls when in park, won't move when in gear, and grinds when putting back into park - the transmission is working, spinning normally, but both axles have to be in or the car won't move (due to the differential)

 

Thank you for the good information.

 

@Brent1234,

Did this fix your problem? I have the same exact thing.