How to Take the Gear Shift Off a 1999 Jetta

Removing a gear shift knob from a 1999 Volkswagen Jetta requires you to remove the knob and the shifter boot at one time because they're installed as a single component. This may be necessary if you're installing an aftermarket shift lever or are adjusting the car's transmission throw. Removal of the shift knob can be done with ordinary hand tools. Be careful while you're working to avoid damaging the center console of the car.

Instructions

1

Peel up the edges of the shifter boot that surrounds the manual transmission of the 1999 Jetta. This can be done by hand by simply pulling on the edges of the shifter boot or using a small flat-head screwdriver to pry up the edges if necessary.

2

Pull up the shifter boot so that the material won't be damaged.

3

Twist the gear shift knob of the Jetta in a counterclockwise direction until you feel the shifter loosen. There are two styles of shift stalks that were used by Volkswagen in 1999. One type is threaded and the other simply slides into place. Wiggle the slide style gear knob back and forth until it loosens and comes off. Continue turning the shift knob in a counterclockwise direction until it's completely unthreaded if it's a threaded stalk.