Custom Aftermarket Shift Knobs for Acura RSX | Weighted, JDM, Hello Kitty

Customizing Your Acura RSX Shift Knob

The shifter and shift knob in your manual transmission Acura RSX are key components that you interact with every time you drive. Upgrading to an aftermarket shift knob can make shifting gears more comfortable, match your car's interior styling, or just help your RSX stand out.

Why Upgrade Your RSX's Shift Knob?

The stock shift knob that comes in the RSX tends to be made of basic plastic or leather. After years of use, these can look worn out or feel flimsy. Putting a custom shift knob in your RSX can give your interior an upgraded feel and personalized look.

Aftermarket shift knobs come in many styles, shapes, colors and materials like carbon fiber, aluminum, or weighted knobs. This lets you match other interior mods you might have or simply suit your personal taste.

Popular Shift Knob Choices for the RSX

When picking new a shift boot and knob for your RSX, some popular options include:

• Weighted shift knobs for smoother, more solid shifts
• Colorful JDM-style knobs to match exterior mods
• Short throw shifters with matching shift knobs
• Leather and aluminum knobs for an upscale look
• "Hello Kitty" and other theme knobs for a cute customized look

Installing an Aftermarket Shift Knob

Putting in an aftermarket shift knob on your RSX is a relatively easy DIY project that can typically be done in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.

The general steps are:

1. Remove the shift knob by unscrewing it from the shift lever
2. Remove boot collar ring and shift boot
3. Install new shift boot and collar if needed
4. Screw new shift knob securely onto shift lever threads
5. Make any small adjustments needed to boot/knob alignment

It's important to get the right thread pitch on your replacement RSX shift knob to ensure it screws on properly and stays securely attached while driving.

Reviews of Popular Aftermarket Shift Knobs

Perrin Weighted Shift Knob

Perrin makes a popular weighted shift knob that comes in at around $120. It gives positive, precise shifts with its 400g internal brass weight inside a minimalist black anodized aluminum housing. Fits all Honda/Acura manuals including 2002-2006 RSX.

Mishimoto JDM Shift Knob

This vibrant colored JDM-style shift knob from Mishimoto features anodized aluminum construction, 280g internal weight, and easy bolt-on installation. Available in multiple color options like red, blue, purple to match your RSX's exterior accents.

Custom Hello Kitty Shift Knob

For a unique look, this custom Hello Kitty shift knob for the RSX is accented with sparkly pink crystals and red bows to match an interior theme. Made of durable ABS plastic, comes with a matching Hello Kitty shift boot.

As you can see there are many options for customizing your Acura RSX's manual shifter. A new shift knob is an easy way to add personality and upgraded style to your car's interior.

FAQs

What are some popular materials for custom RSX shift knobs?

Common materials used to make aftermarket shift knobs for the RSX include anodized aluminum, carbon fiber, weighted metal like brass or zinc, leather, plastics like ABS or delrin, and exotic options like crystal or marble.

Do I need special tools to install a new shift knob?

Most aftermarket shift knobs for the RSX use a standard thread pitch and can be easily swapped by unscrewing the factory knob and bolting on the new one. Basic hand tools like wrenches or pliers are generally all that's needed.

Will a shorter shift knob provide better throws?

Going with a shorter aftermarket shift knob can provide a slight mechanical advantage for quicker throws between gears. But upgrading to a short throw shifter kit makes more of a difference for precision shifts.

How do I choose thread pitch for my RSX shifter?

Nearly all aftermarket shift knobs designed for 2002-2006 Acura RSX models use M12x1.25 thread pitch. Ensuring you get the proper thread pitch is important for securely fitting the shift knob.

Can I damage a weighted shift knob by forcing shifts?

Forcing shifts can damage inner shift fork components before impacting an aftermarket weighted shift knob. But avoiding aggressive power shifting helps reduce wear for optimal precision and shift feel.