What is one purpose of the transmission interlock?

The purpose of the transmission interlock is primarily to prevent accidental engagement of reverse while the vehicle is moving forward. This safety feature is crucial as it helps to ensure that the driver cannot inadvertently shift into reverse when the vehicle is in motion, which could lead to loss of vehicle control, potential damage to the transmission, and pose a safety hazard to the occupants and surrounding environment. By incorporating this interlock system, manufacturers enhance the overall safety and operational reliability of the vehicle's manual transmission system, significantly reducing the risk of unintended consequences that could arise from improper gear selection.