Why does my automatic transmission sometimes pops out of gear?

I pulled out of the drive, drove down the street, and stopped at the stop sign.

When I took off the car felt like it jumped into Neutral.

I stepped on gas but nothing happened.

I shut the car off and turned it back on.

After that I had all gears except Reverse.

The transmission oil was dark but did not smell burnt.

97tib
Location: Winnipeg

Visitor Comment

Shutting off the engine caused the transmission's fluid pressure to drop to zero. That allowed the transmission's valves to release. When you started the car again, the valves went into their proper positions.

This action can occur when the transmission fluid is low. Check the level to be certain it is filled to the proper level. Use the relevant mark on the dip stick (Hot or Cold marking) when checking the fluid level.

Very dark transmission oil may mean that it should be changed. Check your records to see if the mileage and driving conditions exceed the manufacturer's recommendation.

Dirty transmission fluid will affect, and even impede shifting. It will cause extra transmission wear.

The transmission fluid should be maintained to the proper level and not allowed to get excessively dirty. Both of these conditions can cause the oil to overheat and give it that burnt odor. This can damage the transmission permanently.