QuestionSubject 2003 Jetta
Question My jetta was shifting fine when suddenly when driving down the road i tried to shift from 1st to 2nd but the car just acted like it was in neutral and would not engage 2nd gear. I tried to shift back to 1st but the car just acted like it is in neutral. I can move the gear stick like normal by using the clutch I can get the stick into 1st position, but the car acts like it is in neutral, same with second, and reverse. What is your diagnosis?
-----------------------------------------------------------
Answer Jordan...turn the car off, put the car in first gear with the clutch pushed to the floor. Try to start the car...does the car not start? does it seem to inch forward like the clutch is not pushed all the way in? Also, try the same in reverse and see what happens.
let me know.. thanks,
shad
------------
I did this and nothing happened with the car. It did not move. I cannot reach Shad so can you help?
AnswerHi Jordan;
Have you been able to check the fluid level in the transmission? If there is no fluid, or very low gear oil, the synchros...ie. "dog teeth" won't move with the "sliders" the correct way, and no gear change will be possible. Synthetic gear oil...75W90 is what's called for in Volkswagen transmissions of your vintage. See if that cures your problem, and look for a leak, or a loose drain plug, etc. Tighten it up, and you should be good to go for a while. Did the car get serviced recently? Maybe someplace where they aren't so familiar with Volkswagens?
Anyway, I hope this helps you get going again. Good luck, Jordan.
