My 2002 camry stopped allowing me to shift into 1st gear today. When I'm in neutral the shifter goes all the way to the left and I'm sure it would go further if it could. I just had the clutch replaced almost 5000 miles ago so I don't think that would be the issue. I have had a little issue getting into 2nd since I have been unable to shift into 1st also but I'm still able to. Any help or ideas would be truly appreciated!

 

check again the clutch master and slave for leaks

then the cable adjustment

then bushes at the base of the shift stick

then suspect syncros

 

I figured it out. Shifter cable broke

 

now you know

a 2002 camry being an import .going to take some phoning around to source them
today I cant find a parts listing for manual cables plenty of auto s cable

expect these cables to be pricey

you can try a bone yard or have them made up as new (needs the old cable as a sample )


take your time .. its a bit of a diy job to replace both cables