1989 Toyota Camry gear not engage from shift selector

185,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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89CAMRYWAGON
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I got no engagement of gears with shift selector in any of the positions (D, R, 2 or L). Shifting action is smooth. With the engine running, the car is not moving at whatever position if shift to. Also, shift indicator on the dash is not showing for R when I shift to that position. All other positions are ok, i.e. dash indicator would show(light up) at P if I shift to P, ect.

With the shifter at park position I can still push the car arond as though the parking mechanism is not engaging

This all started when I was starting out at a stop light and suddenly the car won't move when I step on the gas pedal.

Appreciate any tips.
Jan 30, 2010 at 4:17 AM
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89CAMRYWAGON
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found the problem...dang...:D
Mar 6, 2010 at 10:10 AM
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JLEJ
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could you tell us what it was you found... we seem to have the same problem... thx
Mar 9, 2011 at 4:14 PM
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89CAMRYWAGON
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Driver-side transaxle has the transmission-side slipped of of the transmission "socket". If you have taken a transaxle out and then put it back, chances are you might not have push the transmission-side of the transaxle all the way and it has slipped. That was my problem, exactly.
Mar 9, 2011 at 4:38 PM
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FIXITMR
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so are you saying you took out the axle/replaced and that's why it slipped?
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:36 AM
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89CAMRYWAGON
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right. I did not put the axle back properly the first time which then caused the slip off.
Mar 31, 2011 at 10:11 AM
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FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,989 POSTS
thanks for your informative input.
Apr 1, 2011 at 10:21 AM
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