2003 1.4 Tdci 100+k mls : Changing gear had started to get a little stiff and became more obvious after a long run especially after standing in traffic.

Looked on the Fiesta site and there was a recommendation to remove gear knob and gaiter then spray WD40 or similar onto the linkages,has transformed the gear change action, a pleasure to drive again for 5 mins work.

Thought to be heat and or time drying out the linkage and the heat makes it worse. First thing after start up its good as well. :)

Good tip prompted me to watch this video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAdyJbahD9U, which was helpful.

Mine at 97,000 isn't really stiff, but its not exactly a smooth change (have to say best gearbox I ever had was on a Mk2 Escort!)

Is also worth checking the Transmission fluid level, or is that likely to be entirely unrelated?

Transmission oil was OK, as per the video can be condensation (worse after the winter) oxidising on the moving parts of the linkage.. Weeks on its much improved and was so simple.

Did a second lubrication with WD40 as per the video, soaked everything and the change is now a dream, will make it park of the regular check now.

A couple of questions, do you have to remove the gear lever/gaiter - or can you just remove the trim around it and spray WD40 underneath?

Also, does the trim come off easily without breaking any of the clips? Most of these trim bits are so fragile, I need a new bit of footwell trim after changing the pollen filter!

Cheers.

Pull the rubber gaiter down from the gear knob and unscrew then the gaiter will just lift off with the securing ring, just prise the ring up from the console. No need to twist just clips out, 2 min job. Replacement, put gaiter in the ring and clip back tighten knob and push up gaiter ring.

The gaiter trim secures the gaiter so once that is off with the gear knob just slide off. be gentle with the ring but the clips are solid although plastic.