How to Change a Car Gear Shift Knob ?

If you want to add a little flair to the interior of your Volkswagen Jetta , installing a manual shift knob could be a good place to start. Not only is the shift knob a central piece of the interior, but you're also interacting with it constantly while driving as you shifter gears. Because it's one of the focal points of the interior, car enthusiasts often look to upgrade to a custom shift knob. However, with the MK IV, you'll also need to purchase a new shift boot since the boot is attached to the gear shift knob.

Step 1

Lift the boot above the knob by pulling on the elastic base. Once the boot is pulled above the knob, you will see the base of the shifter knobs. The boot is attached to the shifter knobs.

Step 2

Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the metal piece crimped to the base of the shift knobs. This crimped piece is what's holding the shift knobs to the shift lever.

Step 3

Pull off the knobs. Once the metal piece is loosened or removed, pull off the shift knobs. The boot will come off with the shift knobs because the two are attached.

Attach the new knob and boot. Each knob and boot is different and should come with its own set of installation directions. In many instances, they'll come with their own set of installation tools. Most knobs, such as the MoMo brand, use Allen screws to tighten the new knob onto the shift lever, while most boots use elastic tops a base to attach to the trim and knob.

Items you will need

Shifter knobs

Shifter boots

Flat-head screwdriver

Gear Knobs Purchasing Guidline

Functionality remains the key consideration when buying a replacement for your factory installed shift knob. If the knob cannot work effectively, then your transmission and ability to shift gears may also be negatively affected. Other essential considerations include:

Manual or automatic - Not all shift knobs are ideal for automatic transmissions. Of those that are most require you to have a buttonless system in place. In case you have a knob on an automatic that has a button on the top, then you need to find a knob that particularly fits this kind of shifter.You need to identify it before buying the manual shift knobs or automatic shift knobs.

Fit - Many replacement shift knobs are universal, which means they included adapters that allow them to fit on any size gear shift. These adapters sit between the shifter and the knob allowing the appropriate connection to be made. Others, however, are designed for specific car makes and models. Always check this in the shift knob details before purchasing. You also need to know that it is 5 speed shift knob or 6 speed shift knob .

Comfort - It is important that the shifter knob you select is comfortable for you to use. If it's not, then it could have an affect on how you drive and even make your gear shifts erratic.

Materials - When you want your shifter knob to look good, you also want it to last. Look for durable materials and coverings such as metal or carbon fiber. Nevertheless, be aware that on warmer times metal can heat up quite quickly and intensely. Similarly, a plastic shifter knob might lead to excessive sweating in the heat, that could cause your hands to slip more easily.