How to Replace a Gear Shift Knob?
4 Answers
Most manual transmission gear shift knobs are screwed on, with one or two fixing screws. Remove the fixing screws and rotate the gear shift knob counterclockwise to take it off. If you're replacing it with a non-OEM gear shift knob, you'll need to install the included fixing bolt. Place the fixing bolt over the gear shift lever and tighten it clockwise. Then, screw the new gear shift knob onto the lever.
Changing the gear shift knob is quite an interesting thing. I've done it several times myself, and it feels like adding a new accessory to the car. First, figure out what type of gear shift knob you have: for manual transmissions, you can usually unscrew it counterclockwise directly, while automatic transmissions might require loosening a small screw first. Prepare tools like a basic wrench or a specialized puller, and avoid pulling it off forcefully to prevent damaging the shift lever. When removing the old knob, be careful not to dirty the interior, and use a soft cloth to clean off any dust. For the new knob, I recommend an aluminum one—it's sturdy and affordable. When installing, align it properly and tighten gently, but don't use too much force to avoid cracking. Finally, shift gears to test its stability and take a short drive to see if shifting feels smooth. DIY is endlessly fun and can save you a few hundred bucks to spend on other car decorations.
Replacing the gear knob is actually quite simple, and I learned it from scratch. First, determine how your car's gear knob is fixed: manual transmissions commonly have a screw-off type, while some automatic ones have screws. Basic household tools like screwdrivers and wrenches are sufficient. When removing the old knob, do it gently to avoid damage. Before installing the new knob, clean the gear lever to ensure no dirt affects the fixation. When choosing a new knob, it's advisable to find one that matches the original size to avoid installation issues or looseness. After installation, test if the gear shifts smoothly. If unsure, search for tutorial videos online and follow along. The entire process isn't complicated and can be done in just over 10 minutes—it's economical and enhances the interior aesthetics.
I saved money by replacing the gear knob myself. The steps were super simple: check the gear knob type—manual ones usually unscrew counterclockwise, while automatic ones might require removing screws. Household tools are sufficient. For the new knob, I chose a cheaper plastic one, costing just a few dozen yuan. Be careful not to use too much force during removal and installation. When putting the new knob back, tighten it well and test the gear shift to ensure it doesn’t wobble. The whole process didn’t take much time, but driving out felt like a fresh experience, saving the repair shop fees.
