On a vw 6sp gearbox, going up the gears ok but changing back down it wont go into 4th gear, but if i go to put it in 3th then pull back it will go into 4th, thanks for reading

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Check out the videos on servicing the gear linkage. It contains plastic connectors. Personally, I would give a local transmission specialist the job.

https://www.google.com/search?q=2000+vw+cabrio+5+speed+manual+gear+selector+linkage

Good diagram here

http://cabby-info.com/Files/ShifterLinkageGuide_5speed.pdf

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Hi do check gear linkages or cable adjustments.otherwise possible gearbox malfunction.

Check and bleed the clutch system. If the clutch is working correctly there will be no clashing of the gears during selection or attempted selection. Pull the gear lever out of the turret section of the gear box and see if the pin in the side that the lever pivots on is still intact. If ok undo the turret section of the box and ensure that the plastic cup on the end of the lever is still in place . There is normally a small cup that fits over the end of the lever that takes the gear noise out of the gear lever and it also takes up the clearance between the end and the slots in the selector rails.

check linkage if not internal trans problem

there is a simple button beside your transmission handdy.. just press it, you will see on your screen "OD off", which it means your gearbox will not go to overdrive gear(usually 4th gear called overdrive) and it will not go more than 3th gear.

Hi Val,first of all the gearboxes for all vw are made in the same factory in germany and if one model of car was giving trouble the whole range would suffer.i.e.SEAT/SKODA/AUDI/VW.I have not heard of any specific cars giving trouble.but to answer your problem,get the linkage checked by a dealer as these tend to wear and a specific tool is required to set them up properly.and while they are under the car get them to change the oil for the gearbox.you do not need to get a NEW gearbox as a reconditioned one is MUCH cheaper.if you want to down that road.(you will still need to get the linkage set up).
hope this sorts it out for you.regards. geoff,England.

check your fluid level in the resivor if it is full you might need a new clutch , they do wear out . there is no adjustment just replacement .

No good news on this one I think
Your whining sound problem is the Layshaft bearings in the gearbox are badly worn. It also seems that the baulk rings are damaged on 5th gear.
John

I had the same problem I changed the transmission fluid & put a new filter in the trans, this fixed it good until I put my foot down to overtake the trans kicked down to 2nd gear & the hold light started flashing again & the trans started slipping again. I stressed over it for a day or 2 & then I took it out for a drive & thrashed it, Low & behold it came right. When you change fluid its impossible to get all the old fluid out because the torque converter holds a liter or two under pressure, so when I put my foot down some of the gunk blew through & blocked the pump it looses pressure & cant change gear. You need to get it flushed by a transmission specialist   

could be gear linkage come aff at gearbox. put hand down back of gearbox and check for any loose rods. Replace back onto ball joint and try.