Shift Linkage

Replace or repair the shift linkage assembly that connects the gear selector to the transmission on a 2017 Maserati Levante with RWD transmission.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Shift linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Linkage bushings (if worn) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Pivot bolt washers × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Lift vehicle and secure on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
4. Allow exhaust system to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
5. Shift transmission into NEUTRAL position for easier access
6. Remove center console lower trim panel to access upper linkage connection

Procedure

1. 1

   Document linkage position and orientation
   Before disconnecting anything, take clear photos of the shift linkage from multiple angles showing the relationship between the selector lever, linkage rod, and transmission connection. Mark the orientation of all adjustable connections with paint pen or marker. This is critical for proper reassembly and shift gate alignment.
2. 2

   Disconnect upper linkage at shift selector
   Working from inside the vehicle through the removed console trim, locate the connection point where the linkage rod attaches to the base of the shift selector mechanism. Remove the pivot bolt securing the linkage to the selector. Support the linkage to prevent it from dropping.
   Torque spec

   Pivot Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Access transmission linkage connection from underneath
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the shift linkage where it connects to the transmission selector shaft on the driver side of the ZF 8-speed transmission. The connection point is near the transmission pan and may be partially obscured by heat shields. Clean the area of any dirt or debris.
4. 4

   Remove heat shield if necessary
   If exhaust heat shields obstruct access to the transmission linkage connection, remove the securing bolts to lower or reposition the shields. Note the orientation and bracket positions for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Disconnect linkage at transmission
   Remove the linkage bolts securing the shift rod to the transmission selector shaft lever. If the connection uses a clamp-style fitting, loosen the clamp bolt. Carefully slide the linkage off the selector shaft, taking care not to damage the shaft or allow it to rotate freely.
   ⚠Do not allow transmission selector shaft to spin freely as internal detent mechanism can be damaged
   Torque spec

   Linkage Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove linkage rod from vehicle
   Carefully extract the shift linkage assembly from the vehicle, maneuvering it past any exhaust components, crossmembers, or wiring harnesses. Thread it up through the transmission tunnel or down and out from underneath depending on clearance. Inspect the removed linkage for wear, damaged bushings, bent rods, or elongated mounting holes.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare new linkage
   Compare the new or repaired linkage to the old assembly to confirm correct part and same length adjustment. If linkage has adjustable length, transfer the exact length setting from the old unit. Install new bushings if not pre-installed. Apply light grease to pivot points and bushings.
8. 8

   Install linkage at transmission end
   Route the new linkage assembly into position from inside the cabin down through the transmission tunnel, or from underneath depending on previous removal path. Connect the linkage to the transmission selector shaft lever, ensuring the linkage is properly seated on the shaft. Install linkage bolts finger-tight initially.
   Torque spec

   Linkage Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect upper linkage to shift selector
   Working from inside the vehicle, align the upper end of the linkage with the shift selector mechanism connection point. Ensure the linkage orientation matches your reference marks or photos. Install the pivot bolt with washer and tighten to specification.
   Torque spec

   Pivot Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Verify shift gate alignment
    Before final tightening, have an assistant move the shift selector through all gear positions (P, R, N, D, S/M) while you observe the transmission selector shaft movement from underneath. Verify that each shift position corresponds correctly to transmission detents. Adjust linkage length if misalignment is present.
    ⚠Incorrect shift alignment can result in starting in wrong gear or inability to remove key from ignition
11. 11

    Final tighten all linkage connections
    With shift alignment verified and selector in PARK position, torque all linkage bolts and pivot bolts to specification. Apply medium-strength thread locker to fasteners as needed. Double-check that all connections are secure and linkage moves freely without binding.
    Torque spec

    Linkage Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)

    Pivot Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall heat shields and trim
    Reinstall any heat shields or covers removed for access, torquing fasteners to specification. Inside the vehicle, reinstall the center console lower trim panel. Ensure all clips and fasteners are properly seated.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all fasteners are torqued to specification and no tools or parts are left under vehicle
2. Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove chocks
3. Test shift operation through all gear positions before starting engine

Verification

• With engine off, move shifter through all positions (P-R-N-D-S/M) confirming smooth operation and positive detents
• Verify shift indicator on instrument cluster matches actual shifter position in each gear
• Confirm vehicle will only start in PARK and NEUTRAL positions
• Test that ignition key can only be removed when shifter is in PARK position
• Start engine and verify transmission engages properly in Drive and Reverse with no delay or harsh engagement
• Road test vehicle through all gears confirming proper shift operation and no abnormal noises from linkage area

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