How to disassemble and assemble the gear shift mechanism of an old Jetta?
2 Answers
Pull the gear shift cover backward, then slowly lift it up to open the gear lever cover. Gently lift the cover and the leather of the gear lever to locate the connecting clips. Then, with the help of pliers, release the clips, after which remove the old gear lever head and the leather, and clean the dirt and dust around the gear shift lever. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws on the gear shift lever, then forcefully pull off the gear shift lever.
Disassembling the gear shift mechanism of an old Jetta requires a step-by-step approach, and I have plenty of experience to share. First, disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid short circuits—it's safer that way. Then, remove the interior trim panel of the center console by unscrewing the fastening screws with a screwdriver. Be careful not to scratch the plastic parts when taking off the shift lever cover, as the components on this aged car are quite brittle. Next, you'll see the base of the shift lever; loosen the connecting bolts, but don’t apply excessive force while tightening to avoid slipping. After removing the mechanism, check for wear issues—older cars often have loose linkages or aged plastic parts. Clean and lubricate if necessary. Reassemble in reverse order, ensuring the base is accurately aligned to prevent rough shifting. The whole process only requires a Phillips screwdriver and a medium-sized wrench—simple and straightforward. If something feels stuck, don’t force it; replacing a new part might save trouble. The entire job takes about half an hour, and afterward, test if the gears shift smoothly.
