If you’re like most drivers, you probably rely on your car’s shifter knob to get you where you need to go. Buttons and levers may be more flashy, but the shifter knob is what gets the job done. And while it may look like it’s always been there, that old shifter knob might not be in the best condition. If it’s starting to squeak or wear down, it’s time to replace it. Here are a few tips on how to change the shifter knob yourself.
What is a Shifter Knob?
A shifter knob is a component of a car that allows the driver to change gears. It’s typically located on the center console near the shift lever.
How to Change the Shifter Knob
Changing the shifter knob on your car can add up to a couple of extra gears when you’re in need of a quick getaway, or allow you to cruise at a leisurely pace when you don’t need the extra power. The process is relatively simple and can be done by anyone with basic mechanical knowledge and basic tools.
First, remove the screws that hold down the shifter handle. Next, use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the shifter knob from its mounting plate. Finally, remove the shifter knob and Mounting Plate. Once they are removed, you will have two pieces: the Shifter Knob itself and the Mounting Plate.
To install the new Shifter Knob, first determine where it will go on your mounting plate. Match up the holes on each piece and screw them together using screws supplied with your new knob. Be sure to tighten these screws until they are snug but do not over-tighten as this may damage your shifter knob.
Now put the new shifter knob back on your car’s handle and reattach it to its mounting plate using the screws that were removed earlier. Be sure to tighten these screws securely so that there is no movement in your shifter lever or gears. You’re now ready to enjoy those extra gears!
What if the Shifter Knob is Locked?
If you find that the Shifter Knob is locked, there are a few things that you can do to unlock it. First, try turning the ignition switch to the off position and then back to the on position. If this does not work, try removing the key from the ignition and putting it in a different location (like your glove box). If these methods do not work, you may need to take your car into a service center.
Conclusion
Changing the shifter knob on your car can be a relatively easy task, but it’s important to take the time to do it correctly in order to avoid damaging your car. Follow these steps to change the shifter knob on your car: 1. Disconnect the battery connector. 2. Remove the driver’s side wheel well cover (see diagram below). 3. Disconnect both electrical connectors at the transmission crossmember. These are circled in red in the image below: 4. Carefully pull out and away from vehicle all eight Torx screws securing shift lever assembly to transmission crossmember (shown yellow): 5. Lift off shifter lever assembly – you will now see three black cogs (shifter gear), two small metal bushings, and one large metal bushing: 6. Replace all parts as shown above in reverse order, making sure that when installing each screw that its head sits flush against surface of crossmember without any protrusions visible outside or inside of hole: