Odd Situation with Shifter - Tiptronic - Stuck
 

OK, don't make fun of me, it's my wife's car...... :)

1998 Boxster - Tip - 39,XXX miles

I've noticed the last few times we had the car out, that the shifter was a bit stiff. I took it out today, stopped for gas, and all seemed OK, but the shifter was still stiff. When I got home with it, I could barely get it out of D. Fortunately, I was able to coax it into N with a bit of muscle. Of course, I can't turn the key off, so had to disconnect the battery.

This isn't the typical stuck in P situation. It is locked tight in N and will not move in either direction. The ignition seems to be activating the mechanism properly, as I can't push the release button when the ignition is in accessory mode, but if I start the car, I can depress it.

I really, really, REALLY don't want to have it flat bedded to the shop. Any tips, no pun intended, would be most appreciated. I can't find anything online describing my particular situation.

Thanks!!!

Does it have anything to do with the linkage hanging up on something? I'd start easy... in the rear where the linkage connects to the trans... back there...

I'd next be considering the linkage under the center console.

Good luck. :cheers:

Well, here's an update....Went out this morning, hooked the battery back up, got in the car, pressed the brake, and the shifter slid smoothly into P. I ran it back and forth, and it shifts completely normal.

During my research, I read about an inexpensive part that evidently can wear, and the symptoms show up when the car is hot, then disappear when the car cools down.

Anyone familiar with this issue?