Shifting Problem on my 97

[iburyem73]

I just recently bought a 97 Boxster with a 5 speed. I have had no problems until today. I very stupidly let my son drive it to prom. The gear shifter seems really sloppy or loose and will not shift into 1st, 2nd, 5th or reverse. I have 3rd and 4th. Any suggestions or help would be great as I know very little about these cars. I have always had mopars.lol Thanks again

[blue2000s]

There are two rods that connect the lever to the transmission. The one that translates lateral motion to the transmission has either been disconnected at the lever or the transmission.

[iburyem73]

sounds great i will check first thing tomorrow. i knew it had to be something simple.

[iburyem73]

ok yes it was disconnected. i put that back on and now have all gears back but.......when i shift it seems to rev really high now. The clutch works fine it is after i release it into second it revs right up and doesnt act like it is catching....almost like an automatic that is slipping!!!HEEELLLLLLPP!!!!!LOL

[silentfrosty]

revving really high but not catching is your clutch going bad/already toast. This just happened to my 97 boxster, new clutch=$400. process to replace is possible to DIY if you have the right tools, as you need to remove the trans to replace it. a shop will most likely charge between 4-600 in labor to replace it (at least that's how much they charge in my town).

when you are trying to drive it, can you smell what smells like brakes burning? if yes, then your clutch is toasted.

on a side note, does your son know how to drive a stick? and were your tires wore down at all when you got the car back? haha sounds like he was riding/popping the clutch.

[RandallNeighbour]

If you do replace the clutch, you may want to replace your intermediate shaft bearing while the tranny is dropped. Not a cheap preventative maintenance item, but if it goes the motor goes with it and that's a repair that is more costly than your car is worth.