is it the clutch or the shifter or something else? I did have to replace the 2 shifter cables about 18 months ago as they broke, but lately, it is having a very hard time going into gear, especially 1st gear when stopped. It's so bad my wife won't drive it any more. :runaround:
We love our 35mpg Saturn and want to keep it running well. Any suggestions?

Miles on the car?
How is it when the car is off?

I would think the pressure plate fingers are worn. A new clutch assembly may be needed.

Miles on the car : 139k

Good tip, I didn't even think to check the stiffness of the shifter when the car is turned off. It shifts just fine and smooth when not running.

Sooo. Pressure Plates then? If so what kind of $$ am I looking at?

$140 for a new clutch assembly from auto zone. $600 for installation. $400 if you live near albany NY and want me to do it :)

Or just deal with it :) If you roll as you put it into first, it should slide right in. Or let the clutch up slightly for a second so that the gears match up, put the clutch down and shift into first. Granted this is annoying but it works. If you notice the other gears shift fine. Variable: car is moving.

Almost a year later and it's still doing okay without having it fixed. Still kind of hard to get into first gear and now 3rd gear is becoming a little tough also, but still just a minor inconvience. Car is still getting great gas mileage, usually in the low 30's.

Very nice. However I would plan on fixing it at some point if you plan to keep the car. Eventually the pressure plate fingers will be so worn/bent that they wont let you switch gears at all. I only know this bc I had this happen to me. I couldnt get out of first gear as i was on my way to pick up my Date for Easter dinner!! :(