Is it a good idea to lubricate the exposed gear shift cables (where they slide in and out of their sleeves) at the gearbox end of a 1.4 Stilo with 6 speed gearbox? Ditto for the ball joint at the cable end.

will certainly do them no harm..on jtd I use motorcycle chain lube and to get to them use the can with one of those straw type tubes you attach to can as is a little awkward to direct in correct place,, but sure most type of lube will be better than none also will add a little protection to weather elements...been doing them few times a year in the 4 years have owned car with no ill effects and no problems with gear changes