How do I fix the shifter linkage? Reverse is hard to find.

Sounds more like a linkage issue. Try tightening the linkage links, replacing any loose bushings. (The detents, or stopping points, on the shift lever have little do do with the shift lever.)

I assume you have owned this car for a while and now how to get into reverse. this problem may be due to worn shifter or bushings to linkage for ****** or shifter, and last may be an internal trans problem. you will need to do some checking . have some one help you as you move the shifter and look for play in the shifter arm or linkage,good day.

the linkage is loose or poping out! check to c if trans is tightend down

just give the shifter a little tap or **** in the downard position to key the key to turn, the problem is with the shifter linkage , it gets loose and sloppy , in order to fix the problem you would have to tighten evry pivot point on the linkage below the shifter itself , i have the same problem , mine will also not go into reverse unless the shofter in in between the parking and reverse positions , I must listen ( or feel ) for the engament to kick in

You have ti figure out if the problen is in the transmission or external linkage. This is how you do that. Block the rear wheel and apply the park brake. Disconnect the shifter linkage from the transmission. The shifter should detent in 6 different places, if it does not you have an internal trans issue that should be able to fix by tightening a nut, If it does then you have something broken or most like loose in the linkage.

My VW is not shifting into reverse at all; I think a certain person was driving and mistakenly pressed the gear shifter down for all gears--reverse is the only gear you press the shifter down first in. Doesn't grind, 1 2 3 and 4 work but no reverse no reverse lights.
I've read several complicated (can't see scenario's) posts on screens and linkage and a cable fixed one guys problem but still no solutions.

sounds like a shift linkage problem check linkage to transmission

it is either the shifter or the cable, I would go with a broken part in the shifter linkage. Detrim the steering column and see what shows up, very easy just 4 screw I think.

You need to get to the transmission linkages with some penetrating spray, right where they are attached to transmission at front drivers side. You may have to remove battery & tray to get better access, but 90% of time that's the problem area. You'll see where the shifter linkages attach & pivot on top. The top linkage is your power valve,(like a kickdown) which kicks it down on acceleration, then returns after. This needs to move freely, and it may take some work & spray to get it loosened up, but that should help with your problem, as it affects the shifter itself too. After you get them movong freely, put a good coat of white lithium grease or similar on them . On my 95 neon, i'd have to do it, about once a year or more. Initially it would shift out of lower gear to next at higher revs, and when stopping it would shift down hard. Good Luck

you have a linkage problem its either where the shifter is in the floor there is a ball there that wears out and causes this. or its loose at the transmission just pop the hood and visually inspect the transmission and the shifter linkages see if any are not connected. if its connected and tight on the trans then you know you need a new shifter in the car. they are not hard to replace.