3rd gear feels like a stick in a bucket of marbles

[AmateurX]

I'm concerned about my 3rd gear. Every shift into 3rd at north of ~3k RPM feels terrible (Not exactly every shift. But I can't pinpoint the circumstances surrounding it, so let's assume every shift.). It goes in but it sure isn't very smooth (like pushing a stick through a bucket of marbles). My perception is that it's gradually getting worse, but I can't be certain. I'd like to see if anybody else has similar shifting feel, and if my worry is warranted.

On a related note, over the past ~2.5 years of ownership, I've mis-shifted into 3rd 7ish times (this includes my wife's mis-shifts as well). I assume these incidents are related, but don't have any idea what could be affected within the transmission. Any education on this would be welcomed as well

[mcdbrendan]

If you're under warranty I'd head straight to the dealer. Hell, even if you're not under warranty, I'd take it to get a professional opinion. My third gear feels like all the others - small amount of resistance followed by a smooth "clunk" when it's in gear. I've got a Cobb STS and front and rear bushings.

[bdy107]

I had the same problem come up about a year ago. Third gear would grind every upshift, and sometimes on a downshift. Take it into the dealer as soon as possible. They fixed it under warranty, though it took a few days. I don't remember what they said was the problem, but it hasn't come up again.

[Sinister]

hmm... stick in a bucket of marbles.... I feel like there are a lot of places I could go with this

[EndlessSea]

take it to the dealer if its still under warranty. my 2013 wrx shifts perfectly smooth, no "stick though a bucket of marbles" feeling