Two candidates.

Most likely shift rod bushings. Put the car on ramps and check them out. Can be done DIY.

Other candidate would be the neutral start switch.

My money is on shift rod bushings.

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.