I have a 97 Subaru Impreza 2 door (AWD, manual transmission) with about 165k miles on it. The shifter moves side to side even when the car is in gear, as though it is coming loose. I am noticing no ill effects on the actual transmission (the car stays in gear and the transmission is otherwise working). It is, however, becoming increasingly dificult to tell whether i am shifiting into 1st or 3rd gear because the shifter is so loose. is this something i can tighten without considerable invasion into the car, or should i seek a mechanic for help? If i need help, how much can i expect to pay to get this fiexd?

Matt