
Most manual transmission gear shift knobs are screwed on, and there may be one or two fixing screws. Since this replacement is not an original gear shift knob, you need to install the included fixing bolt. Place the fixing bolt over the gear shift lever and tighten it clockwise. Screw on the new gear shift knob, and the job will be done.

To replace the gear shift lever knob on a Excelle, I usually prepare the necessary tools first: a Phillips screwdriver and a hex key are most commonly used. Open the car door, locate the decorative cover at the base of the gear shift lever, gently pry it open or unscrew it; then find the fixing point of the lever knob, loosen the fixing screw, and slowly pull up the old knob. Next, align the interface of the new knob and press it down, tighten the screw, and finally reattach the cover. Test to ensure smooth gear shifting. The tools are inexpensive, but choosing the material of the lever knob requires careful consideration—plastic is cheap but prone to wear, while aluminum alloy is sturdy and durable. The entire process takes about 20 minutes. After completion, it's recommended to test the D/R gears a few times to ensure there's no jamming. Avoid using excessive force during normal operation to reduce the frequency of replacements.

I think the replacement of the Excelle's gear shift lever requires attention to safety details. It's best to disconnect the car battery for a few minutes before removal to avoid accidentally touching wires or sensors. During installation, check the internal connections—some models have shift cables or microswitches inside the lever, and misalignment can affect gear shifting. Using genuine parts is safer; online parts may be cheaper but ensure the model matches. Wear gloves during the operation to prevent scratches. Beginners should take their time and not rush. After replacement, clean the dust around the shift area to ensure smoother operation. Regularly check if the fixing screws are loose to prevent bigger issues.

Last time the shift knob on my Excelle cracked, and the feel was terrible. I bought a new one and replaced it myself: removed the side trim cover, loosened the screws, and gently pulled off the old one. The new knob just clicked and twisted into place, solving all the problems. Saved the hassle of queuing at the repair shop and wasting money. The whole process was very simple, using only a screwdriver I already had at home. After the replacement, it felt like a new car, with an excellent grip. Just remember to operate it gently while driving, and the knob will last much longer.

Replacing the gear shift lever of the Excelle is not costly. Doing it yourself, the parts cost only a few dozen yuan; going to a repair shop doubles the cost with labor fees. When purchasing the lever, choose reputable brands and avoid cheap parts—plastic ones break easily, while aluminum alloy ones are rust-proof and durable. However, if shifting isn't smooth, don't force it—professional repair is safer to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

I've driven my Excelle for many years, and the gear shift knob has never had major issues. Prevention is key: avoid yanking the lever forcefully while driving, and use a dry cloth when cleaning the interior. If it feels loose, first check the fixing screws—tightening them might save you from replacing the knob. Regularly inspect for wear and choose knobs with anti-slip textures to enhance safety. Once these habits are formed, becomes much easier.


