Introduction
In this guide, we will be taking you through the steps on how to replace the rubber shift boots (both upper and lower) on your NB MX-5. Over time, the shift boots are prone to wear out and split. The small lower boot prevents dirt and grime entering your gearbox turret and the larger upper boot reduces road noice and heat entering the cabin.
Difficulty Rating
Tools/Parts Required
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead)
- Socket set
- Stanley Knife
Step 1
Start by removing the shift knob. Simply unscrew it by turning it counterclockwise.
Step 2
Using a small flathead screwdriver, pry up the plastic cover over the screw. Now simply remove the screw with a phillips head screwdriver.
Note: There will be one screw on each side of the transmission tunnel.
Step 3
Open up the centre console box and remove the two phillips head screws.
Step 4
Next, carefully lift up the entire centre console piece and tilt it to one side to reveal the window switch connector. Press the tab and pull out to remove.
Now you can simply remove the console piece by lifting it out.
Step 5
Take off the two insulation pieces to reveal the four bolts. Using a socket set remove the four bolts and pull the upper shift boot over the gear shifter.
Step 6
With the upper boot gone we can now see the three bolts on the lower shift boot which need to be removed with socket set.
Step 7
The lower boots base is metal and can be quite difficult to remove. The easiest way is by using a stanley knife to trim all the rubber away from the inner edge of the boots metal base.
Then all you need to do is simply lift it up over the shifter.
Step 8
Apply a small amount of grease to the inside of the new lower boot and a small amount to the shifters shaft. This assists in sliding the new boot all the way down.
Step 9
Bolt in the new lower and upper boots and place the new insulation on top of the upper boot. Now you can place the centre console trim back on and bolt it all up.
Note: Remember to reattach the window switch connector, or they will not work!
