Been lent a MK5 Golf TDI for a few days for work. I know that a golf with 1500miles on and an Octavia TDi with 125000 miles won't be the same.

The shift on the golf is much much smoother, i am guessing once upon a time my car had a nice smooth shift as well, what causes the smoothness to disappear and can it be brought back?

My thread at the moment, its in the garage tomorrow.

http://briskoda.net/forums/octavia-i/jerky-gear-change-1st-2nd-2nd-3rd/102613/

Depends on the mileage and age I'd have though - mine is very smooth even at nearly 104,000 miles although it is only just 4-years old. The only niggle I have is that 1st to 2nd is a bit notchy when the engine and gearbox are cold.

You could try greasing the ball joints or maybe even replacing them if they aren't too expensive.