If your SL Series shifter has suddenly "gone floppy" & your stuck in one gear (or no gear at all), it's possible to hold the shift linkage together with 2 or 3 well-placed cable ties (a.k.a zip ties) as shown in this picture below---make sure you pull the cable ties VERY TIGHT, so that they don't slip over the ball-end of the shifter "tounge" & allow the cable loop end to fall off.

There is a replacement bushing available from NAPA auto parts---part #620-1411 for about $23; I have not been able to get the replacement bushing to hold up for long & have replaced it once already---maybe others will have better luck---I'm going to make my own bushing soon & I'll keep a supply of cable ties in the car until then.

Happy motoring---Bill

P.S.---Can someone reply with a list of what other Saturn models have this same shifter problem?

 

Replace the shifter cables, why because they have stretched causing the bushing to come apart. If you replace the bushings with the NAPA item it'll not last long. If you replace the bushing with steel item it'll not last long. Happy motoring .

 

Thank you, sw2cam; any advice on the best source for new shift cables in terms of GM dealer vs. a particular chain of parts store?

Also is the OEM bushing (or something better) available & from where?

Below is a picture of the Dorman 14043 Shift Cable Bushing For Saturn that I've used.

 

PS: All Saturn S-Cars use the same set up, so thats your list.

 

Doorman makes a set of cables for the car. Only use these if your going to sell the car the next day. If your going to keep the car buy from a GM dealer and make damn sure they are tagged with a GM tag and part number.