A car with a 3-speed automatic transmission works okay in forward gears but slips in reverse. What could cause this problem?

In an automatic transmission, the reverse gear operation relies heavily on the function of the rear band. The rear band is responsible for applying pressure to specific components within the transmission when reverse is engaged. If the rear band is defective—perhaps due to wear, damage, or improper adjustment—it may not be able to hold the necessary components in place, leading to a slipping sensation when the vehicle is put into reverse.

This malfunction explains why the vehicle operates normally in forward gears; the components used for forward motion may not be as affected by the issue with the rear band. Understanding the role of the rear band is critical when diagnosing transmission issues, particularly when specific gears are functioning differently than expected.