Transmission is stuck in neutral; the key turns to start but nothing happens?

2006 DODGE RAM
205,000 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
JESSIEMCALISTER
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
My truck is stuck in neutral and the key will cycle to accessory and all lights and gauges come on as should but when key turns to start nothing happens?
Nov 17, 2023 at 1:04 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It sounds like the gear position sensor has come apart not allowing the shift lever to move, but to be sure let's remove the shift cable from the transmission and then try to move the shifter. Here is how the job is done in this video to help show you how with instructions below for your truck:

https://youtu.be/UtMsbNzquCk?si=z6Npw4PeeJqH7ETa

If the shifter is working after disconnection, I have included how to change out the gear range sensor. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.




Nov 17, 2023 at 5:39 PM
Avatar
JESSIEMCALISTER
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I'll try to change this also. But I should've probably told you what I've already done. And I have already disconnected the shift cable and tried shifting the transmission manually and it is still stuck in neutral. I also have already changed the shift to solenoid and still no start or shift. I also thought I'd let you know that when I dropped the transmission oil pan to change the solenoid i found stuck to my magnet was the parts that are in the picture i sent. I don't know if they have anything to do with my current problem. But I thought I would let you know that they were in there.
Nov 17, 2023 at 8:45 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Thanks for the image. Those parts look like they go to the detent of the shifter, please look at the images below to see what I am talking about. Check out the images (below). Let us know what you find.
Nov 18, 2023 at 10:16 AM
Avatar
JESSIEMCALISTER
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Do i have to drop my transmission to do this? Because I'm not finding anything that looks like this.
Nov 22, 2023 at 1:47 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Do you have the pan off? Can you please upload images so I can see?
Nov 23, 2023 at 9:51 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.