OK, let's see if we can get this right this time. Thanks to a2Jack for his very valuable input, and to the local smart dealer for the information on what to lubricate in the shift knob mechanism.
Some owners are finding the shift knob button getting difficult to move, and are getting stuck in Park, Reverse or unable to get to those positions. Forcing the mechanism can result in breaking plastic parts inside the shifter, and of course getting stuck and towed. Not good.
Your dealer should be able to do this for you, or, if you live too distant, this is pretty easy.
Apparently some shifters have little or no lubrication in the button mechanism, and this is an easy 5 minute way to apply some lube.
First, put the parking brake on and put the gearshift in Neutral to make it easier to work on. Then, with a pair of pliers padded with cloth or whatever you think works best, twist the plastic collar under the knob counter clockwise. It seems to require only a small turn, perhaps 1/8th or so.
Then the knob should slide easily off the shaft, straight up.
Use a little bit of silicone spray lubricant to coat this top part of the plunger. I just sprayed a little on my fingertip and applied it.
Also, spray a little up inside the knob. Slide the knob back on the shaft and turn the collar clockwise to latch the knob.
Done.
Some owners are finding the shift knob button getting difficult to move, and are getting stuck in Park, Reverse or unable to get to those positions. Forcing the mechanism can result in breaking plastic parts inside the shifter, and of course getting stuck and towed. Not good.
Your dealer should be able to do this for you, or, if you live too distant, this is pretty easy.
Apparently some shifters have little or no lubrication in the button mechanism, and this is an easy 5 minute way to apply some lube.
First, put the parking brake on and put the gearshift in Neutral to make it easier to work on. Then, with a pair of pliers padded with cloth or whatever you think works best, twist the plastic collar under the knob counter clockwise. It seems to require only a small turn, perhaps 1/8th or so.
Then the knob should slide easily off the shaft, straight up.
Use a little bit of silicone spray lubricant to coat this top part of the plunger. I just sprayed a little on my fingertip and applied it.
Also, spray a little up inside the knob. Slide the knob back on the shaft and turn the collar clockwise to latch the knob.
Done.