Pontiac produced the Grand Am between 1973 and 2005. The last generation Pontiac Grand Am was the 1999 to 2005 model. This model had a center-console mounted shifter covered by a leather boot. The shift handle contains a small clip on top, which holds it in place. Since the clip is at the front portion of the shift handle, the vehicle must be in gear to remove the shift handle.
Park on a level surface, put your foot on the brake and move the shift handle down to the "1" setting for first gear. Engage the parking brake and turn the engine off.
Grasp the leather boot cover around the lower part of the shift handle. Pull the boot cover down to access the shift handle clip.
Pull the clip out with a pair of pliers, or pry it out with a flat head screwdriver. Pull the shift handle straight up to remove it; it will slide right out.
Place the shift handle over the gear shift bar, with the button facing towards the driver's seat.
Push the clip back into its mount to secure the shift handle. Lift the leather boot cover back to its original position.
Turn the ignition to the "on" position, put your foot on the brake and move the shift handle to park (P). Turn the ignition off and disengage the parking brake.
