GT shifter boot

As the cold season sets in, there are fewer things I can do in the car on my own. Nevertheless, there are still some small, quick things I can handle. One of these things is replacing the shifter boot.

You might wonder, why replace it? Let's be honest all GT-Line owners want to have GT, so do I. Having some things from GT in non-GT adds +100 points in confidence and charisma. Just joking...

I wish to have the steering wheel with red stitching, as seen in GT, instead of black one in GT-Line. And typically, when I ask for upholstering the steering wheel, I also ask for the same for the shifter boot, so the stitching to match. At some point, my steering wheel will need upholstering, as I prefer to keep the leather in a perfect condition.

I've checked the prices for steering wheel upholstery, and they range between $200 to $1000. And between $40 to $200 as for the shifter boot. As I said before, my steering wheel leather is in perfect condition now, so I decided to postpone changing it. However, the GT shifter boot is a separate part coming with red stitching by default. And it is much more affordable than upholstery. So, using the Kia OEM parts catalog, I've found the GT shifter boot part number:

• 84645-M6100B2G

The price is just $49 with shipping included for my region. In addition it gives you satisfaction of changing it yourself, as the procedure it quite simple. Using the plastic tools, I removed the GT-Line shifter boot and pulled up the shifter knob.

Next, I separated the knob from the boot itself using thin plastic tool, pushing a small tongue on both the left and right sides of the knob.

Then assembled everything back. Now, check out the result. I like the way it looks.

Certainly, the red stitching on the steering wheel is needed. Nevertheless, the red stitching of the shifter boot matches the interior red lights. And also this is an OEM solution, which I love.

And what do you think? Thanks everyone for reading this and safe travels. Love your cars!