Car goes backward but does not forward
 

I have a 1996 Camry with 130k miles on it. When the car is put in reverse gear the card drives smoothly. When the car is put in forward gear (Drive or 1 or 2), the car does not move. Pressing on the gas the engine just revs but does not move forward. The transmission oil is clean with no debris. I would like to start off by understanding if it is just an electrical problem or a mechanical problem also. The transmission appears to be in good shape. Any hints for trouble shooting is much appreciated.

Thank You
H

RE: Car goes backward but does not forward
 

The initial gear (D, 1, 2, R, etc) is selected by the gear shifter. Make sure the shifter cable is actually moving the shift lever on the trans into Drive, etc.

The electric shift solenoids shift the trans into a higher or lower gear when driving.

If the cable and shift lever are working OK, the problem is most likely inside the trans, a clutch, brake, etc.