Just got my 03 a couple of days ago and just noticed the shift lever will not go over into the manual shift slot. Unfortunately I didn't check that function when I test drove it. My bad.
It's like the slot doesn't exist. I can force it a little ways over but it feels like there is no slot there. Is there a solenoid that keeps it locked out that could be bad or needs adjusted?

 

Your not missing anything, either way its still an auto. Wish i could help, most of my experiance is 6mt , even my wife has one.

 

Gee, that was helpful.

 

The OP is missing the fully functional vehicle it was designed to be. I'm like you OP, I want stuff to be functioning normally all the time. Did you buy from a private seller? I'd start to track down the paper trail to see who's serviced/owned it. If no luck getting an answer, take it to the dealer and tell them what's up and let them diagnose it for you. Good luck

 

The previous owner said it never happened to him. It has had all service done at a dealer in Nashville. It had been serviced a couple of monthes ago, so I called them and was told they would have to look at it. They knew nothing of the problem.