Automotive Forums

I have a manual transmission on a 2001 Saturn L100 that I JUST bought.  When I come down from 5th gear, the shifting to any other gear completely locks up and I have to get off the road.  Sometimes I can make it to my destination...but then I'll try to start the car later and I cannot shift into 1st, or any other gear.  If I turn the car off, shift into first gear and start the car again it takes off on its own at about 30 miles per hour.

It seems like something isn't disengaging.  Because it locks up on the
road sometimes. It becomes very serious when I'll move the shifter a little more firmly and it completely snaps from the base (it won't go into gear, i'm stuck in moving traffic, and all of the vital parts are made of plastic!).  This has happened twice now and has cost me a fortune for the work done and the towing fees.  

I bought this car three weeks ago.  Do you have ANY idea what the problem is.   I need immediate assisstance with this vehicle I am fed up.  Unfortunately there is no used car lemon law in Rhode Island.  And its only been 3 weeks! - Derek