How to Replace a Gear Shift Knob (with Pictures)

The gear shift knob in a manual transmission equipped car or light truck is the large knob, usually made of plastic, that attaches to the top of the gear shift lever. Over time the surface of the knob can wear and you might wish to replace it to spruce up the interior of your vehicle. Many aftermarket manufactures offer specialty gear shift knobs. Some of these are made out of exotic materials such as leather or billet aluminum. Some companies offer novelty gear shift knobs for owners who want to personalize the interiors of their vehicles.

Things You'll Need

  • Wrench set
  • Allen wrench set
Replacing a Gear Shift Knob

Locate the gear shift knob attached to the end of the gear shift lever. Gear shift knobs are usually mounted in one of two ways. There will either be threads machined into the gear shift lever that the knob screws onto, or a small screw (usually an Allen head screw) at the base of the knob that secures the knob to the shift lever.

Replacing a Gear Shift Knob

Turn the knob counterclockwise or remove the screw at the base of the knob to remove the knob from the shift lever.

Replacing a Gear Shift Knob

Install the new knob on the shift lever by threading it clockwise onto the shift lever or sliding it onto the shift lever and tightening the screw to the base of the knob.