Stiff automatic selector

[Petlew]

My 2005 Avensis T Spirt automatic (sequential) has developed a stiff gear change, seems to have got worse in the recent cold weather. I understand that the selector is actually cable linked to the gearbox. If so is it just a case of lubrication needed? is it a DIY job?

Could the cable or linkage break and leave you stranded?

Edited January 4, 2017 by Petlew
incomplete text

[alan333]

No harm in trying lubrication first, it might work.  Look under the bonnet at the right hand side while you have someone move the gear selector through the positions.  You'll see a large cable moving a lever at the gearbox.  Lubricate all the moving parts you can access.  The cable could break and leave the car stuck in whichever gear position it was in before the breakage.