Just bought an 1997 fiat punto had it for a few days now, the problem is that the 1st n 2nd gears are quite stiff, say when changing from 1st to 2nd gear l have to put a bit of pressure on it sometimes and its quite stubborn l have to slow right down 2 change to 1st gear sometimes because it just wont budge and say from 3rd to 2nd gear is quite hard also and so on, all the other gears seem fine its just 1st n 2nd are getting quite stiff anyone no what the problem could be??? would an oil change help this or will a new gear box/linkage or clutch be needed possibly, Anyone had the same problem?? thanks for any .

your clutch is fine.. sounds to me as though the gear box needs replacing . if you bought from a garage take it back to them and show them the problem, or indeed if bought privately talk to them , otherwise go to a proper Fiat dealer and get a second opinion.they will tell you what is wrong and quote you for putting it right . l had one (1996) and had the gearbox reconditioned with new gears.. this was less expensive than buying a brand new one. Good luck

no sorry take it to the shop

It may be the gear linkage between gear stick & gearbox, Id suggest u go to a small back street type of garage & ask them to take a look for their opoinion, theyll be able to tell in minutes so if they say leave it with them & its going to cost to look just go somewhere else..if u bought it from a dealer or trader Id return it their if it was a private sale they must have known about this fault so Id ask for a refund or some payment if u get stuck go to the citazens advice bureau.

It is either a worn syncro or your shift linkage needs adjustment. Either way, you need to bring it to a mechanic.

Lack of oil in the gearbox, or clutch problem.Adjustment maybe.

your trans is getting stuck because you are not shifting the gears right

By the sound of ur symptoms, it seems to me that ur clutch is slightly dragging. This means that the plates in the clutch r not disengaging fully, hense the difficulty in changing gear. The reasons for this could be many. It could mean that the clutch is knackered & needs replacement(do not forget to replace the release bearing too.) or that it might just need adjustment on the cable. One thing to look for is that there is a rubber bush to connect the cable & clutch lever which can collapse when hot. Could be that. Best advice is that if you've just bought it from a trader, take it back. It is within ur rights to return faulty goods. Explain the problem & get them to sort it out to ur satisfaction!