it affects the relationship between the shifter, cables and gearbox. I think its caused by 2nd gear not engaging properly moreso than there actually being anything internal wrong. Well that was the case with my car. It is a very common problem as well of you have a read on vwvortex. If youre still running on original engine/gearbox mounts chances are theyre knackered anyways even if its not the cause of this particular problem.