Shifter Springs?

[Loren]

I'm not going to make that assumption. I'll research it and figure it out.

My gut says you're right. But, I don't want to state so with any authority because I'm just not sure.

[Timinator]

Hey loren, I tried to force a 2-1 and 4-1 shift in my 2018. My transmission flat out refused to go into 1st over 10 mph. So maybe your issue is related to the pre-facelift mirage setup? Has the transmission part number changed?? It feels like there is a internal lockout in my 2018.

[Loren]

Two things at work here:

1. I'd just changed the trans fluid to Redline MTL, which made it shift easier.

2. (and likely more important) I have replaced the stock shifter knob with a 1-pound chunk of stainless steel. So, there's a lot more heft behind the shift and it will go in easier and quicker than it would with the stock knob.

I think if everything was as it left the factory, it would be a lot harder to jam it into first gear unintentionally. But, that shift knob was one of the best things I did to this car as far as making it "feel" better. I like the way it shifts. Just gotta keep my co-driver away from those hot 3rd gear shifts!

The centering spring we're talking about... is probably perfectly weighted to match the stock shift knob.

[Timinator]

I also have an aftermarket knob, NGK something fancy I had from an old miata. Ill drop some redline in my trans when I reach the 30k oil service, I wish it wasn't so notchy when regular shifting. I wonder what other vehicles use the same style shifter spring, outside of mitsubishi. I know my old Honda accord CB7 used cables for the shifter, so maybe that spring may be similar???

[Timinator]

This looks similar to me, maybe worth a try?

[Loren]

Hmmm... I smell a 3rd party FWD cable shifter manufacturer. I wonder how many different cars use the same design?

[Eggman]

I'm not going to make that assumption. I'll research it and figure it out.

My gut says you're right. But, I don't want to state so with any authority because I'm just not sure.