Some customers with 1999-2005 5- or 6-speed manual transmission models may complain that it’s difficult to engage 1st and/or reverse gear, especially after the car has been sitting overnight.

If a customer complains of this symptom, verify that there is no air in the clutch hydraulic system and that the gearshift cable is correctly adjusted. If the symptom persists, clean and lubricate the input shaft splines according to the following procedure. Place a piece of cardboard over the input shaft (See Fig. 1) to protect the slave cylinder and input shaft seal during the procedure.

Service Procedure:
1. Clean the input shaft thoroughly using universal oil (P/N 1161657) and a wire brush. Wipe off the splines with a rag. Check that there is no dirt left on the shaft.

2. Spray the input shaft with a thin layer of P/N 30759651. Wipe off any excess.

For additional information, visit www.alldata.com.

Technical service bulletin courtesy of ALLDATA.