Hey, I have been looking around for an answer to this question now for a long time and have not found any answers so I am hoping someone can help me out, I have a 99 Civic EX m/trans and recently the gear shifter has been very difficult to get it into the gears because its as if the gates are not opening properly and usually takes some force to put the shifter into gear and get it past the gates. This happens with pretty much all of the gears, I recently purchased this car and am wondering if there is something I can do to help with smoother gear box shifts or any ideas or help as to what is causing this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

 

Is the MT fluid low? Start by draining the transmission fluid and replacing it with genuine Honda MT fluid.

 

With the car sitting still, can you shift into reverse without the gears grinding? If not, your clutch is not working properly.

 

I can shift into reverse without the gears grinding that has only happened to me once or twice since I have bought the car and it most likely was my fault.

 

so replacing the M/T fluid usually gets rid of the notchy shifts?

 

It improved shifting gears in my Civic, and I have read threads where it also has helped others. There is no guarantee that it will solve your problem, but I think it is the first thing to try.

 

Is it worth taking it to a place like midas or mr.lube to do their whole Manual transmission fluid "service" or is it better to just change the fluid yourself? anyone have some links on how to change civic fluids? how much is the Honda M/T fluid usually ?

 

Honda MTF is like $6.50 a quart from the dealer. You need 2 quarts.

Just do a drain and refill by yourself, it's effective enough.

DIY:
http://www.honda-tech.com/zerothread/1687986

 

Thanks a lot for the link and the input!