How to Change a Jetta Shift Knob
by Aaron WeinIf you want to add a little flair to the interior of your Volkswagen Jetta MK IV, installing a manual shift knob might 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 shift gears. Since 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 have to buy a new shift boot because the factory boot is attached to the factory shift knob.
Step 1
Lift the shift boot above the shift knob by pulling on the elastic base. Once the boot is pulled above the shift knob, you'll see the base of the shift knob. The boot is attached to the factory shift knob.
Step 2
Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the metal piece crimped to the base of the shift knob. This crimped piece is what's holding the shift knob to the shift lever.
Step 3
Pull off the shift knob. Once the metal piece is loosened or removed, pull off the shift knob. The boot will come off with the shift knob because the two are attached.
Step 4
Attach the new shift knob and boot. Each shift 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.
Things You'll Need
- Shift knob
- Shift boot
- Flat-head screwdriver
Writer Bio
Aaron Wein is a copy editor for Skagit Valley Publishing. He has been a writer and editor since 2004, contributing to Washington-based publications and clients such as the "Bellingham Herald," "Western Athletics," "GNAC Sports" and Microsoft. Wein obtained a bachelor's degree in journalism from Western Washington University.
