What to Do If AOD Will Not Shift Into Overdrive

Vehicle transmission problems can be simple or complex.

Mechanics Are Experts

Transmissions with automatic overdrive are complicated mechanisms. Seldom does one part fail without affecting other parts. Repairs are expensive, but replacing the transmission or a complete rebuild will cost even more. Take it to a transmission service shop with trained experts.

It Might Be a Simple Problem

Don't be like a homeowner who calls the electrician for a burned out light bulb. Check the transmission fluid. Most vehicles have a switch or button to disable the automatic overdrive (AOD) feature when towing or hauling heavy loads. Make sure the AOD is enabled. Older vehicles have a mechanical linkage between the shift lever and transmission. These can wear and loosen with age. Try jiggling the lever or moving it up or down one position.

Bottom Line

Don't ignore the situation. Do a few simple checks to make sure the problem isn't something minor. If everything you can do checks out, get the vehicle to a repair shop as soon as possible.

References

• Vlad Samarin: How to Check Transmission.
• Transmission Exchange Company: AOD Throttle Cable Fix and Adjust

Resources

• Federal Citizen Information Center: Taking the Scare Out of Auto Repair