Not able shift the transmission into third and fifth gears?

Tiny
AZDANNO04
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 CHEVROLET COBALT
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 145,000 MILES
I’ve been able to shift my car into 1st, 2nd, 4th takes more effort and reverse gear is fine. 5th gear and 3rd gear don’t catch. 3rd gear grinds but 5th gear there’s no noise and absolutely won’t catch.
Monday, May 12th, 2025 AT 9:16 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Can you put the transmission in 3rd or 5th with the engine off, and if so can you start the engine and let out the clutch, does the car try to move or stall the engine? It sounds like the gearbox has had an internal failure or the shift cables are not adjusted correctly. It could be a clutch issue as well, please go over this video to help us see what's going on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpBMj5ZY_bo

Please upload pictures or videos in your response
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Monday, May 12th, 2025 AT 12:26 PM
Tiny
AZDANNO04
  • MEMBER
  • 343 POSTS
I will adjust the shifter cables underneath the shifter. I know it only helped for that same day and just went back to it issues. I tried replacing the cables, but they no longer make the parts. And unable to shift into those gears when the engine is off.
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Monday, May 12th, 2025 AT 5:42 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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I would try removing the cables to see if you can shift the transmission manually. If you have a shift cable that is falling apart internally it will cause this issue. I would try to get replacements from ebay.
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Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 AT 10:24 AM
Tiny
AZDANNO04
  • MEMBER
  • 343 POSTS
I tried the adjustment on the shifter cables and so far been able to get fourth gear. Not able to get anything from 5th gear. When I place it in 5th it does nothing no grinding not anything. Tried 3rd gear I get a lot of grinding. I ordered new shifter cables but found out they’re discontinued and the part they sent me were fine all the way till I was inserting them underneath the shifter knob where the plastic clamps. It seems to be a bit thick than the original cables. If need be I wonder if I can shave them down using a Dremel?
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Saturday, May 31st, 2025 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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That is difficult to say, can you upload an image of what you want to grind down?
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Sunday, June 1st, 2025 AT 9:56 AM
Tiny
AZDANNO04
  • MEMBER
  • 343 POSTS
Yes, I will take photos and video. Later this morning. Just waiting for the garage to be opened and the one vehicle to move out so I can move in for the shade and quick pic/vid.
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Wednesday, June 4th, 2025 AT 7:35 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Sounds good.
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Thursday, June 5th, 2025 AT 11:46 AM

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