I have a 2003 Mini Cooper S, 6 speed manual. I just changed the manual transmission fluid, and the old stuff was NASTY! I put in around 1.75 quarts Valvoline Synchromesh MTF. (The reverse problem existed BEFORE AND AFTER the MTF change). However, it does shift much smoother and quieter now than it used to. If I try to put it in reverse, I often cannot until I shift though a few gears (while at idle), then putting it into reverse. Once in reverse, I let out the clutch and it does nothing. It acts just like neutral. Even if I give it gas, it does not move at all, just revs up. As for 5th and 6th, I simply cannot get into them. It feels like there is a wall preventing me from going up into 5th or down into 6th. Can't get in at a stop, can't get in at 80mph, can't get in with double clutching. The clutch does not slip and seems to be in great condition. My main concern is getting reverse fixed, but 5th and 6th would be great too if it is a relatively easy fix. What do you think it could be? Thanks!

 

did you check the linkage cables? Sometimes they come off the attachment points or unclamped . . .

 

Do I need to remove the exhaust and heat shield to access these or can I get to them from the top?

 

Do I need to remove the exhaust and heat shield to access these or can I get to them from the top?

 

From the top. Under the battery box.

Try this - when you get at the cables, pop them off the transmission levers and see if you can work all the gears using just the levers. If yes, you've likely got a cable going, check from there back to the shift ****. If no, problem is inside. I had no fifth on my Midlands, would not go into the gate, turned out one of the nuts had fallen off and gotten beging the shift fork. YMMV

nut was under fork at top of photo