Why does my car cranks but doesn't start?

If you put the vehicle in gear but it doesn't engage, you probably have a problem with the transmission. Check the Transmission Fluid level first, but don't try to drive it if it won't engage. If it's just low on fluid you might be ok, otherwise, see a transmission shop. It could also be a disconnected CV joint. To determine whether it is the transmission or CV joint, there are two simple tests. The first is to shift the vehicle into Drive and watch the speedometer while you push down on the accelerator. If the speedometer moves, then the problem is the CV joint, not the transmission. The second test is to put the car in Neutral and push the car. If the car rolls, then put the car in Park and push again. If the car rolls forward, then the problem is the transmission. If it does not move forward, then it is the CV Joint.