I have an '01 5-speed with 24K miles. Last year the shifter started to loosen up a bit. Right now, in gear, the shifter wiggles about 1/2 inch at the handle. It seems to me it had maybe 1/8 inch play before it started to loosen, but I can't remember.
Dealer is willing to replace, but keeps saying it won't be any different. (And I hate the long trip into the city to get the job done)
B&M isn't out of the question--eventually, but I'd really just like to know how much free play is on comparable cars before I decide.