How to Remove the Gear Shift Knob of Jetta Partner?
3 Answers
Prepare a pair of pliers and a flathead screwdriver. Pull the gear shift cover backward and then slowly lift it up to open the gear shift cover. Gently lift the cover and the leather of the gear shift to find the connecting clip. With the help of the pliers, release the clip, then remove the old gear shift knob and leather, and clean the dirt and dust around the gear shift. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws on the gear shift one by one.
Last time I helped a friend remove the gear knob from a Jetta Partner. First, you need to remove the two fixing screws at the back of the center armrest - this requires a T20 Torx screwdriver. Lift the felt pad at the bottom of the armrest to reveal the fixing clips of the gearshift base, then carefully pry open the metal retaining ring with a flat-head screwdriver. Here's the key point: there's a hidden notch at the bottom of the gear knob. Use a thin screwdriver to push open the plastic locking tab inside, then you can pull out the entire gear knob assembly vertically. When removing it, wrap cloth around the shift lever to prevent scratching the interior trim. When reinstalling, remember to firmly press the clips of the dust boot back into place, otherwise there'll be squeaking noises while driving. The whole process takes about half an hour, saving 200 yuan in labor costs compared to going to a repair shop.
I've disassembled the gear shift lever on three generations of Jettas, and my experience shows you only need two tools: an 8mm socket wrench and small needle-nose pliers. First unscrew the decorative cover beneath the shift knob to reveal the retaining nut. Pay special attention to the transmission linkage position during disassembly - it's best to take a reference photo of the original structure with your phone. The toughest part is that dust boot ring; you'll need pliers to grip the metal collar and slowly twist it loose. If you encounter resistance, never force it - spray some WD-40 at the connection point and wait ten minutes before trying again. During reassembly, fit the dust boot first before tightening the nut, and you'll know the decorative cover is properly seated when you hear a crisp 'click'. Throughout the process, be careful not to drop screws into the transmission gaps.
