How to Fix a Stuck Gear Shifter (Manual)
A stuck gear shifter in a manual transmission car can be an annoying problem. It can prevent you from moving your car and make it dangerous to drive. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to fix the problem yourself without needing to take your car to a mechanic.
What You’ll Need
- WD-40 or similar lubricant
- White Lithium Grease
- Clean, lint-free rag
- Pliers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Disconnect the Battery – To ensure your safety, disconnect the battery of your car before you start working on the gear shifter.
- Examine the Linkages – Take a look at the linkage mechanism, such as the cables, rods, and levers. Move them around one-by-one to see if one of them is stuck or worn out.
- Spray the Lubricant – If there is no visible damage, spray some WD-40 or any other penetrating oil onto the linkage mechanism and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Apply Grease – Wipe off any excess oil with the rag and apply a thin layer of white lithium grease.
- Gently Move the Shifter – Gently pull and push the shifter to move it around and help the lubricant and the grease to move inside the linkage mechanism.
- Check the Collar Clips – Using the pliers, check to make sure that all of the collar clips are not bent, broken, or stuck.
- Test Run – Reconnect the battery and do a test run in an empty parking lot to check if the shifter has been fixed.
Conclusion
A stuck gear shifter in a manual transmission car can be a real pain. With a few tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can fix it yourself without needing to take your car to a mechanic. Follow the steps listed above and you’ll have your shifter working in no time.