Hi Gretchen! I reside just west of Boston. What Ian and the others say is true, it does take some effort. I can't recall anyone else on the board having this specific problem. You really do have to use a lot of force to ensure the shifter is in place. I've had a similar experience, except that I had sunglasses etc... falling out of the under-dash cubby and partially blocking the shifter. Good luck. BTW I am in healthcare as well. Welcome aboard. The X is a great vehicle.

Hunter