shifting difficulties

[dwoeste]

I have a 1999 Carrera with the 6 speed transmission. I'm having problems shifting between 1st and 2nd gear. Occasionally second gear won't engage and will grind. It's worse when it is cold.

Any ideas of what it could be?
And if it is a known type of issue, what is involved in fixing it?
Lastly a cost estimate would be helpful...I'm trying to decide if I keep the car?

Thanks

[JFP in PA]

Assuming that all the shifter mechanisms are OK (the first thing to check), next stop would be the gear oil (poor shifting, particularly when cold, is a common complaint when the wrong gear oil is in the car). The only gear oil that does will not create problems is the OEM fill, which is a full synthetic make to Porsche specs.

[dwoeste]

This may sound stupid, but are you talking about the hydraulic fluid that has a dipstick on the right hand side of the engine compartment? If so that I checked that last night and it was at the proper level and looked brand new.

[JFP in PA]

No, I'm talking about the gear inside the transmission; there is no dipstick for that. I thnk you are looking at the power steering fluid.

[WEST COAST 02]

That's not your trans, there is no dipstick for the trans, has your shifter been changed to a short shifter? that can cause similar symptoms to yours if not adjusted properly. Best case, the shifter cables need to be adjusted, worst case bad syncros in the gear box, cost depends on what has to be done, don't think I'd sell my car over this though, they all require maint at some point, like any other machine!