Reverse is sticking on the stick

2003 Jetta ALH manual:

It requires an unusual amount of downward pressure to push the stick into reverse.

It's been getting worse, in fact, now it's getting so it won't pop back up into 1st when shifted in that direction with no downpressure. I have to reach over and physically pull up to get 1st.

Any idea what does this?

Sticky bushings, or the spring. Look the linkage over.

eddieleephd said:

Look the linkage over.

Click to expand...

Yup. Likely time for some new bits and pieces. I'd go over the linkage and replace the sloppy/sticky parts, lubricate, and then it will feel like new again.

http://www.idparts.com/shifter-tower-bushing-repair-kit-a4-p-2281.html

http://www.dieselgeek.com/Dieselgeek_Shifter_Parts_s/1894.htm

While you're at it, I'd suggest a drain and refill of the tranny oil. Easy to do, and one of the maintenance items that get overlooked. Yours is a GL4 oil. Don't use the multigrade GL4/GL5. Use a good quality GL4 oil like Synchromesh, RedLine MT-90, Amzoil GL4 or similar.

Remember to loosen the top plug first to ensure that you can fill it.
Lift the front to empty and fill completely.
Fill lifted also.