I just bought a 05 malibu maxx with the 3.5. it tries to move forward but wont. reverse works great and when you put it in low it says its in 3rd but you can not get it to shift down to first with the selector. is this a selenoid problem maybe and can you get to the selenoids without removing yhe trans.

Double check the cables and grommets holding everything in place. If parts of the cable can move, the linkage on the transmission wont.

I tried the DIY service and repair manuals from a website and it actually helped
me repair transmission problem in my ford explorer. it wont move forward or reverse, engine is good both solenoids for forward and reverse work.
I don't have much technical knowledge but I just followed it step-wise, and works perfect! got it from www.reliable-store.com

I put my truck into drive or reverse n it will not move at all ...

www.cargurus.com > Questions > GMC > Sierra 1500

CarGurusJan 27, 2014 - I put my truck into drive or reverse n it will not move at all what is ... Try putting the transmission in low 1 or low 2, and see if it will move. ..... plus got a tune IP yesterday day . my car wantvgo forward or back but I can hear it go I ...

Truck Won't Move In Forward Or Reverse - Ford Explorer and Ranger ...

www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=237730

Feb 22, 2009 - 11 posts - ‎3 authors
Truck Won't Move In Forward Or Reverse Explorer & Ranger Transmissions, Transfer Cases, & Differentials.

Transmission won't go forward - Ford Explorer and Ranger Forums ...

www.explorerforum.com > ... > Elite Explorer 911!

Dec 10, 2007 - 5 posts - ‎3 authors
Transmission won't go forward Elite Explorer 911! ... I just got my Explorer off of the tow truck, so I have not had time to search anything out ... i had the same problem as above as well as no reverse. after a ton of research on ...

tranmission won't ingaged or move in drive - Ford F150 Forum ...

www.fordf150.net > ... > 1997 - 2003 Ford F-150

Sounds like the reverse band or servo has gone out. Transmission shop needed for a confirmation.

Any service lights on ? It sounds like the (TPS) throttle positioning sensor.It may also be a faulty fuel pressure valve.

Sorry to say that when you get a rebuild on a transmission they don't replace everything. Most transmission rebuilds are just the solenoids or seals or the whole solenoid package with a new converter. Few times do they go in and replace hard parts. And if they do, you really pay for it ($3000.00+) . And I personally have never heard of an up/down switch?? I would also check for the warranty on the transmission. Some rebuilds come with 3 year unlimited mileage. call them personally, don't let the mechanic do it.

I would get all the electrical schematics and then look for problems like blown fuses affecting the areas you are describing. Then systematically troubleshoot the wiring. Simple.
Now, I am looking for the mentioned schematics on the web. I just bought (2010-01-28) a 2005 Malibu Maxx, and can't wait to have it ready for pickup in 2 days...

Will it move forward in manual low? Try unplugging the plug above the vacuum modulator to lock it in 3rd and see if it moves. Either way the transmission will need rebuilt but at least one of these might get you moving.

Dealing with same issue, also when in main automatic mode, intermittenly seems to "get lost" while coasting and then reaccelerating. What I've found out so far it seems the data cable to the transmission is the problem, thin wires, tight fit and break in wire causes effect. Working on sourcing a new cable. Dealer thought transmission module (500.00 usd). Going cable route first due to cost and common sense.

good afternoon and welcome to fixya
all right first of you you need to go and get a second opinion from another shop, i can tell you that you do not need another engine, sounds like a solenoid on the transmissionis not getting the proper pressure, these transmissions are very sensitive to fluid changes and pressures. i would take the vehicle to a well known transmission shop and not tell them that the dealership said you need a new engine. just tell them the problem your having and let them know that that is a new transmission, could just be fluid is a little low. good luck and let me know the outcome and ill try to help you more.