Hi all, was hoping you guys could help out with a problem I am having with reverse.

I have a 03 CL-S 6mt and today I lot my reverse gear. No matter what I try I can't get into reverse. I can get it to the far right but then it won't go into reverse gear. I've tried going into a forward gear and then reverse, rolling forward, easing out the clutch with gentle pressure on reverse, nothing works.

I'm at the point where I'm going to drop the transmission and pull it apart. Prefer not to do the work myself but I don't know of a transmission shop in the LA area I trust. I'm more than open to suggestions.

Thanks!

 

Can you get it into reverse with the car sitting still and the KEY OFF?

The paragraph below is from the Helms in regards to the reverse lockout system:

'System Description
At a vehicle speed of 12mph or more, a signal from the ECM activates the reverse lockout solenoid, which pushes the select lock cam and select lock pin into the locked position. As a result, the interlock cannot rotate to the reverse select position, making it impossible to engage reverse gear. At a vehicle speed of 9mph or less, the signal from the ECM is interrupted which turns off the reverse lockout solenoid. The return spring pulls the select lock pin back, enabling the interlock to move freely so that reverse gear can be selected.'

Then it (the Helms) goes into Circuit Troubleshooting, I will provide the first four steps, because it is quite lengthy, which brings me back to the question above:

1) Check the No.11(15A) fuse in the under-dash fuse/relay box.
Is the fuse OK?
YES-Go to step 2.
NO-Replace the fuse, and recheck.
2) Start the engine and check the Malfunction Indicator Lamp.
Does the MIL come on?
YES-Troubleshoot the DTC and recheck.
NO-Go to step 3.
3) Turn the ignition switch OFF.
4) Shift to reverse gear.
Can the transmission be selected into reverse gear?
YES-Go to step 5.
NO-Repair the transmission and recheck.

Good Luck!

 

yeah, I'm at step 5. repair the transmission. i can't engage reverse even with the car off.

 

^
Sorry to hear.
If you decide to DIY, be aware that there are procedures to adjust Carrier Bearing Preload that involves special tools and experience. Check out the thread below, especially posts #28, 30, and 31 for discussion and tips. Moreover, whatever you decide to do, it is recommended to replace the carrier bearings for these manual trannys as a precusor to extended life.

https://acurazine.com/forums/2g-tl-1999-2003-98/6mt-rebuild-progress-850979/

Check back in, if you get a chance, on how this ends up for you.