Nissan Repair: 97 NISSAN MAXIMA SE, nissan maxima se, nissan maxima

Question
Three days ago I notice the gear shift sticking and struggling to move -- does not shift smoothly.  Feels as though there is an obstruction.  Less than 50K mileage though car is 8 years old.  Purchased new, no accidents or maintenance problems.  Shifting between D and R is a struggle.  Car is used for short commutes from home to work and has never been used for long road trips, hence low mileage.

Answer
Barbara,

There are usually two things that can cause the sticking shifter.  The first is if anything has dropped in from the passenger compartment.  You could have a penny stuck in the shift mechanism.  You can pull the trim up and check for this.  The second is the shifter where it connects to the car.  If the linkage is dirty, dry and corroded it can cause the problems you describe.