97 Saturn SL Manual Transmission Problems

Maybe someone here can help out, or have had this problem before.. I was
taking off from a stop sign, and my shifter felt like it was in dead air,
it just moved around all over the place. My clutch works, I just can't get
the car out of 2nd gear, I've lost ability to go to any other gear,
including reverse. Does anyone have any idea of what it might be?? I just
paid 1100 dollars to have the head gasket done, and can't afford to pay
someone to figure it out for me

 

Sounds like your shifter linkage let go either at the shift or the
trans. Others here will give you some more info.
Good luck,
MR

 

We had the same problem ourselves today. I was online to find out what I
needed. The problem is a gromet or bushing that holds the shift lever to
the the linkage. I do not have the name or part numbers as all the
dealers are closed today. We have taken the center console off between
the seat that involves 4 screws and unhooked the wiring connectws to the
door windows, etc to remove and have access to the shift lever. I will
get the part tomorro, and attempt to but it in myself. It looks easy
enough once you get the console off.

 

The 97 SL uses a C-clip to attach a cable to the shifter.

On my '97, the $#&# C-clip popped off on the PA Turnpike. After one tow to
the the nearest exit by turnpike contractor tow truck and another tow to
saturn dealer, an overnight hotel bill (these things happen only on
Sunday).,,,2 tows plus hotel plus lodging so far...

==> Saturn dealer charged $20 labor + 30 cents for replacement C-clip ...
literally diagnosed and repaired in 15 minutes.

That was the worlds most expensive C-clip for me. Total cost was about
$300.00.

 

Wow! I think you have the record of part cost to total bill ratio.
1000. You're right though, only happens at really bad times and glad
it turned out ok for you with the exception of the cost.
MR