S80: General Squeaky noise when changing gear

[K12]

Hi all,
I have a really irritating squeak from my gear stick area when I change gear. I suspect it’s the cheap looking gear gaiter being pulled/ stretched/ rubbed by the movement of the gear stick, but before I go removing and replacing it I just wanted to know if anyone else has experienced it?

The reason I suspect the gaiter is because if I grab the base of the gear stick (i.e. the area covered by the gaiter) while changing gear, the noise is less prevalent.

Leading on from this, does anyone know how to remove the gaiter without breaking any clips etc?

I love the s80, but it is really is spoiled by a few poor finishes. I have so many squeaks and rattles from the trim, it’s almost like the bits are talking to each other sometimes . These include, the centre console when setting off from a standstill (loud plastic crack), squeaks and knocks from the B-pillars, plastic cracks from the sides of the centre console (near the seatbelt bases) and from both the front and rear arm rests. I had one from the sunroof, but realised if I closed the blackout cover very slightly (about 1cm), it went away.

I’m planning a systematic attack on all the squeaks… gear noise drew the short straw… I’m coming for you!

Happy New Year.

[kenny37]

Was in a car recently that did this. even after lubricating everything it was still there. eventually went after replacing the lincage to gearbox , dont know cost as was done under warranty.