If you have a Honda Civic and the Change Shift Boot Honda Civic is worn out or damaged, replacing it can restore the interior to a like-new condition. The shift boot surrounds the base of the gear shifter and helps prevent debris from entering the shifting mechanism. Replacing a torn or deteriorated shift boot on a Civic is a relatively easy DIY project. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the complete process of how to change shift boot on Honda Civic models.
Steps To Change Shift Boot Honda Civic
Gather the Necessary Tools and Supplies
Before starting the Change Shift Boot Honda Civic procedure, make sure you have gathered all the necessary tools and supplies:
- New replacement shift boot for your Honda Civic model year
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Zip ties
- Razor blade or sharp scissors
- Shop towels
- Gloves
You may also need a small pry tool, torx bit screwdriver, and valve cover gasket scraper depending on your Civic’s specific trim style. Check your owner’s manual to identify the correct replacement part number for your vehicle.
Remove The Shift Knob
Start by removing the shift knob. On most Civics, there is a set screw underneath the shift knob that needs to be loosened with a small flathead screwdriver. Once loosened, you can unscrew the knob by hand and set it aside.
If your shift knob has a plastic trim ring, unclip it by carefully prying it straight down and off the boot. Remove any debris or dirt around the base of the shifter before proceeding.
Detach The Shift Boot Retainer Ring
The next step is to detach the shift boot from the retainer ring around the base. The boot should be tucked down into the center console trim. Firmly grab the silver metal retaining ring and pull it straight up on both sides to pop it out of the console.
On some models, the ring may be held in place with several Torx screws that need to be removed first. Carefully pry off the ring without breaking the plastic tabs.
Remove The Old Shift Boot
Once you have the retaining ring detached, you can now pull the old shift boot completely out of the ring opening. The boot is likely attached to the ring with several plastic retaining clips or staples around the perimeter.
Use a small flathead screwdriver or needle nose pliers to detach and remove the retaining clips. Be careful not to tear or rip the old boot material during this process.
Install The New Replacement Boot
With the old boot removed, you can now install the new Change Shift Boot Honda Civic. Start by turning the new replacement boot inside out. Trim off any excess unstitched material from the top opening so it fits neatly into the retainer ring.
Wrap the top edge of the inverted boot around the ring and securely fasten it with zip ties or rubber bands. Make sure it is tightly affixed all the way around.
Reinstall The Retainer Ring And Shift Knob
With the new boot securely installed on the retaining ring, you can now reinstall the ring back into the center console. Align the tabs and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Replace any Torx screws if applicable.
The last step is to reinstall your shift knob. Place it over the shifter lever and tighten down the set screw underneath. Snap the plastic trim ring back into place if your vehicle is equipped with one.
Test Shifting And Check For Leaks
Once fully reassembled, test shifting through all the gears. Make sure the boot fits snugly around the base of the shifter without any gaps or tears. Look for any loose plastic retainers that may need an extra crimp or closure.
Start the engine and check for leaks around the new boot. Add sealant if necessary to prevent moisture or debris from entering. That’s it! With the new shift boot installed, your Civic’s interior should now look factory fresh.
Why Replace A Worn Shift Boot?
Over time, the shift boot in your Honda Civic can become cracked, torn, or detached from the trim ring. Exposure to heat and repeated wear causes the shift boot vinyl and rubber to degrade. Here are some key reasons why you should replace a damaged shift boot:
- Prevents dirt and debris entry – The shift boot seals off the base of the shifter to keep out dust, water and grime. A compromised boot can allow contaminants into the transmission.
- Blocks light glare – The boot shade’s the shifter base from sun glare and interior light reflections. A torn or missing boot causes annoying visual distractions.
- Noise reduction – The boot dampens vibrations and muffles mechanical noises from the transmission. Rips or holes allow more noise into the cabin.
- Improves aesthetics – A worn or torn boot is an eyesore. Replacing it improves the appearance and value of the vehicle.
- Averting further damage – Catching a failing shift boot early and replacing it can prevent more extensive repairs. Ignoring boot issues leads to bigger problems.
Replacing a worn Change Shift Boot Honda Civic as soon as you notice damage keeps your Civic’s interior looking neat while preventing problems down the road. It’s an inexpensive maintenance item that’s easy to tackle yourself.
Shift Boot Replacement Cost
How much does it cost to replace the shift boot on a Honda Civic? Parts and labor costs vary depending on the model year, transmission type, and where you source parts. Here are some typical costs:
- Parts – The shift boot itself ranges from $15-$50 for most Civics. Retainer rings, screws and clips add $5-$20. Shop online stores for the best deals.
- DIY parts cost – Expect to spend $25-$75 for a complete DIY shift boot replacement. Buying OEM Honda parts from the dealer is most expensive.
- Dealership cost – Labor at a Honda dealership or shop typically adds $120-$180 for shift boot installation. Total costs reach $200+ for parts and labor.
- Auto shop cost – Independent mechanics may charge $60-$120 for labor, bringing the total to $100-$180 with parts.
- DIY labor cost – Do-it-yourself installation takes 1-2 hours. No labor fees save you $100+ vs. a shop repair.
While dealership replacement is most costly, the OEM parts they provide are high quality. The DIY approach with aftermarket components allows the biggest cost savings.
Honda Civic Shift Boot Replacement Tips
Follow these quick pro tips for smooth shift boot replacement on your Honda Civic:
- Refer to your Civic’s factory service manual for model-specific removal steps. The process varies slightly between generations.
- Work slowly when prying interior trim pieces to avoid cracking the brittle plastic.
- Take photos during disassembly to help with proper reassembly.
- Clean any dirt or debris from the shifter area to avoid contamination issues.
- Lubricate rubber grommets and o-rings during reinstallation to prevent tearing.
- Ensure the new boot is oriented right-side-out before affixing it to the retainer.
- Confirm all retainers are fully secured so the boot stays in place.
- Test shift through all gears to check for proper operation.
- Add sealant if the new boot has any gaps allowing air/water intrusion.
Following the factory service manual and working deliberately helps guarantee a smooth Change Shift Boot Honda Civic repair. Proper cleaning and reassembly keeps the transmission protected.
How Do You Attach A Shift Boot?
To attach a shift boot, first insert the top of the boot into the retainer ring and use zip ties or rubber bands to fasten it securely all the way around. Make sure the boot is fitted right-side-out before securing it. Next, reinstall the retainer ring into the center console opening and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Replace any Torx screws that hold the ring in place. Finally, test shifting through the gears to ensure the boot stays firmly attached without gaps.
How Do You Remove A Shift Boot?
Removing a shift boot starts by detaching the shift knob using a small flathead screwdriver to loosen the set screw underneath. Pry off any trim rings straight down to access the base. Grab the metal retainer ring around the boot and carefully pull it up and out of the center console. Use a small pry tool to detach the plastic retaining clips or staples around the perimeter of the old boot. Turn the boot inside out and cut off any zip ties or adhesives before pulling it free from the ring.
How To Install A Shift Knob On Civic?
To install a shift knob on a Civic, first ensure the shift boot and retainer ring are fully secured in place around the base of the shifter. Slide the shift knob over the exposed shifter lever and use a screwdriver to tighten the set screw underneath, securing the knob in place. Replace any plastic trim rings by popping them back into place around the top of the boot. Double check that the knob is tightened properly by trying to jiggle it.
How Do You Remove The Shift Boot On A 10th Gen Civic?
On a 10th generation Civic, start by prying off the shift knob. Remove the tray around the shifter by pulling up on it firmly. Use a trim tool to detach the clips holding the boot to the trim bezel. Pull up on the retaining ring around the base and detach the old boot from the clips. Unfasten the adhesive or screws to fully remove the boot. Thoroughly clean the area before installing the replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Hard To Change The Shift Boot On A Civic?
Replacing the shift boot is not difficult on most Civic models. With basic tools and mechanical skills, the job can be completed in an hour or two by a DIYer. Taking time to work slowly and methodically is key.
How Do I Remove The Shift Boot Without Breaking It?
Pry off the retainer ring carefully to avoid cracking it. Use small flathead screwdrivers to detach the retaining clips around the edge rather than tearing the old boot material.
Should I Replace The Shift Boot If It’s Just Worn?
It’s recommended to replace visibly worn or torn shift boots even if they still hold in place. The degraded rubber and vinyl loses its protective abilities over time. Replacing helps avoid bigger problems.
Can I Just Glue A Torn Shift Boot Instead Of Replacing?
You can temporarily patch small tears with vinyl repair glue as an emergency fix, but it’s best to replace the boot. The materials weaken over time and adhesive repairs won’t last.
Is The Shift Boot Connected To The Transmission?
No, the boot simply surrounds the shifter lever base where it enters the center console. It’s only connected to the cosmetic trim pieces in the interior.
Replacing a deteriorated shift boot restores the factory-fresh look of your Civic’s interior and prevents bigger problems down the road. With basic tools and mechanical skills, it’s a DIY project homeowners can readily tackle.
Conclusion
The shift boot is a common wear item in Hondas like the Civic. Thankfully, replacing it is a straightforward process you can tackle in your home garage with basic tools. Follow the steps to remove the old boot, install the new replacement, and reassemble the trim. Some patience and care is required when working in the tight space around the shifter base.
But taking your time yields big improvements in appearance and prevents dirt entry into the transmission. Periodically inspecting and proactively replacing worn shift boots is smart preventative maintenance for any Honda owner. It also gives you satisfaction from renewing your car’s interior yourself and maintaining your Civic in top operating condition for years to come.
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