I have a 2011 Mini S with the N18 engine and 6-speed auto. I just finished putting a new engine in it this week and went to test drive it this morning and it will not move in any gear. The ATF level is good, the shift linkage is hooked up as it should be, there are no warning lights or codes present, it's not making any noises, it shifts from Park into Drive and Reverse just fine but will not move in either. Any ideas?

 

@Shields Racing

Has the torque converter fluid been filled properly?

 

If the torque converter was drained and not properly filled, it will not move. I was leaning in the same direction.

 

I did not drain the torque converter, just swapped it right over to the new motor. When I shift into drive or reverse the rpms drop slightly like any automatic and it feels like the transmission is engaging, so the torque converter has to be working. I think that the transmission is spinning but its not connecting with the transaxle. I don't know if it's chain, belt, or gear driven inside but I think something between the two let go and maybe that's why the motor went, or vice versa. I'm going to get a new transmission this weekend and tear it all apart again.

 

@Shields Racing

Another possible cause would be the clutch bands. What is the exact condition of those clutch bands?



Automatic transmission clutch band

 

I'd check to make sure the axles are fully engaged in the transmission if you removed them for the engine swap. If the car is in park and you push it, does the car roll? If it rolls, i'd check the axles.