2000 Passat 1.8T Automatic Shifting Problem (Tiptronic)

[Chase68]

I have a shift problem that started today. I parked my car after a 20 minute drive to work. I had no problem until I tried to shift into Park. As I Placed the shifter into the Park postion, the button on the side of the shifter would not release. The dash display showed (P). I shifted slowly down through the gears and back up to (P). The button still did not release. I was able to turn off the engine and tried to remove the key. It would not come out. I re-started the engine, shifted down and back up again. As I did this, I noticed that it was not shifting smoothly. Very tight, very similar feeling to losing the power steering. when I put it back in (P), I gave the shifter a firm tap forwards and the button released. I was able to turn off the ignition completely and remove the key. I didn't hear any odd noises. Can someone give me an idea of what could be causing this?

[veedubmechanic]

The button is problablly gummed up inside. It can be cleaned up and lubed with silicone spray, but if not than you will problably need a new shifter lever.

[Chase68]

Thanks, I'll see what I can do myself. Any suggestions on the best way to get at the base of the lever? Do I need to disassemble anything.