Mazda 3S Manushift Problem

[donmawe]

Hi,

This is my first posting even though I've perused the boards before. I have a new problem that's arisen on my Mazda 3, and I hope y'all could give me some insight and guidance if anyone here has had or heard of this problem. Thanks.

Car Specs:
2006 Mazda 3S Sedan Touring (Automatic Shifter with Manual Mode)
22,000 miles (approx)
Location: DC (maybe weather could be a problem)

Background:
Last week I noticed whenever I click over into manu-mode the shifter seems to stick. It does change to gear however, this happens both upshift and downshift, but it feels weird as if particles of sand (just to create a mental image) were blocking the shifter. I never have any problems when I'm in auto-mode, the car runs smoothly and everything feels just fine. I'm a stickler for keeping my car interior and exterior clean, as well as getting regular servicing. Does anyone have any idea what might be causing this problem before I take it in to the dealership?

Thanks! (bowdown)

 

[ZooMIN3]

You may have had something spilled in the shifter area. You know, where the shifter moves over into the manual mode? Did you get a chance to take a peek in the console where the shifter is? You said you keep your car clean, but you know, things happen.