Whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, without the right maintenance, transmission issues can happen to almost any vehicle. The Nissan Versa is no exception. If your Nissan Versa won’t go into gear it can be one of a few issues, but all of them can usually be avoided by performing regular maintenance on your vehicle.

Problems might be different when comparing the manual transmission to the automatic transmission. A broken transmission linkage is the most common issue for many users. Dealing with a broken transmission linkage means you might have had a crash or massive bump, which could have dislodged one of the connectors in the transmission. Although it is unlikely, it could cause transmission issues for manual or automatic vehicles.

While visiting a mechanic is always the way to go if you experience any of these issues, you might want to investigate the issue yourself. Having an idea of the probable causes could point you in the right direction. This article aims to help you understand the potential causes if your Nissan Versa won’t go into gear.

5 Key Reasons Your Nissan Versa Won’t Go Into Gear

Some of these issues are more dedicated to either manual or the automatic transmission Nissan Versa. We will look at both of them to help you understand what the possible issues could be and what you could do about them. Here are the most common reasons that your Versa would not go into gear when driving:

1.      Broken Transmission Linkage

Problem: While the broken transmission linkage is not the most common issue to go wrong with your Nissan Versa, it is a possibility. Unlike the next couple of issues, it can happen to either the manual or automatic transmission. A broken transmission linkage is when something located between the shifter and the cabin gets disconnected. While it is often unlikely to happen, it could happen after a crash or massive bump.

Solution: Unfortunately, you will need extensive knowledge of the transmission to understand which component is dislodged. It is much better to have a professional assist you and make no additional damage is done to the gearbox.

2.      Bad Or Damaged Synchronizers (Manual Transmission)

Problem: If you have an aggressive style of driving and you use a heavy-footed style, you might find that your synchronizers wear out. The more forcefully you shift, the more damage and wear these components can sustain. One way to identify this is when the transmission grinds when shifting or it quickly pops out of gear. Eventually, you will also notice that too much wear means it will not go into gear anymore.

Solution: It is an affordable way to fix your transmission, and you will need to open it up. You can check the synchronizers and replace them. With basic mechanical skills, you should be able to do this at home.

3.      Worn Out Clutch (Manual Transmission)

Problem: The clutch dip is responsible for allowing the transmission to switch from one gear to the other. If you have an issue with the hydraulics or pedal linkage, the disc will enable the transmission to slip, and you will not have any power regardless of whether it is in gear or not. If you notice this issue, you might need to replace the clutch disc.

Solution: You can easily replace the clutch disc in the comfort of your home. However, it is one of the most expensive parts to replace. You will also notice the price when you have it replaced when servicing your vehicle. With a better and more elegant driving style, you can reduce some of the wear on the clutch disc.

4.      Failed Engine Computer (Automatic Transmission)

Problem: The modern automatic transmission is heavily reliant on the ECU (Engine Control Unit). While this is an uncommon issue in vehicles that are regularly maintained, it becomes a bigger problem as your vehicle gets older. The ECU determines the gear the vehicle is in and compensates for speed and other variables. If for any reason, it cannot compensate for these variables, it might be in the wrong gear or stop shifting.

Solution: Unfortunately, this is not an easy fix, and you will need the help of your mechanic. You will probably need to reset the ECU or have an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) expert have a look to replace the unit. Aftermarket components are not the best idea when dealing with an ECU issue.

5.      Shift Lock (Automatic Transmission)

Problem: Most modern automatic vehicles have a safety feature called the shift lock. The shift lock is responsible for keeping the car in park if clumsy kids or accidental bumps shift the gear lever. If no one is in the driver’s seat, the shift lock won’t allow the gear lever to move. However, the shift lock can malfunction and cause the vehicle to be stuck in park.

Solution: Most modern vehicles have an override for the shift lock. You will need to find this override method to ensure you can move. It is best to consult the owner’s manual to find the override.

FAQ

How Do I Get My Nissan Versa Out Of Park?

There could be a variety of reasons that the Nissan Versa could be stuck in park. If it is a major issue, you might need to check some of the above-mentioned issues. However, a quick fix could be checking if the parking brake is engaged. If you need to get it out of park, you might want to look for the shift-lock override.

What Can Cause Your Gear Shift To Get Stuck?

As mentioned, numerous reasons could lead to your vehicle being stuck in park. However, a failed engine computer could be one of the main reasons that your vehicle does not want to shift gears. Worn components are another reason.

Do Nissan Versa Have Transmission Problems?

While it is not one of the most common issues, some users have reported dealing with transmission issues. These issues generally lead to sluggish performance and slow acceleration. The continuous variable transmission can occasionally be at fault. Read Here if you have acceleration issues with the Nissan Versa.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Nissan Versa Transmission?

While some of the smaller issues like fluid leaks or other minor issues might not be as expensive. However, replacing your Nissan Versa transmission could be in the range of $3,500. It is especially the case when you want to buy a brand new transmission.

If the transmission is your issue and you want something versatile, you should check the Nissan Qashqai, especially if you have issues with losing power.