How to Install Plastic Body Clips on a Car

Plastic body clips are used to hold various body panels, trim pieces, and other components in place on a car. They are typically made of a durable plastic material and have a grooved or barbed design that helps to keep them secure. Over time, these clips can become damaged or broken, which can cause the panels or trim pieces they hold in place to become loose or fall off. Replacing plastic body clips is a relatively simple and inexpensive task that can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Materials Needed

New plastic body clips
Trim removal tool (optional)

Instructions

Locate the damaged or broken clip. The clip will typically be located in a hole or slot in the body panel or trim piece. If you are having difficulty finding the clip, you can use a trim removal tool to gently pry the panel away from the body of the car and expose the clip.
Remove the damaged or broken clip. Use a pair of pliers or a trim removal tool to gently pry the clip out of the hole or slot. Be careful not to damage the surrounding body panel or trim piece.
Insert the new clip. Align the new clip with the hole or slot in the body panel or trim piece. Push the clip into place until it snaps into position.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all of the damaged or broken clips.
Reinstall the body panel or trim piece. Once all of the new clips are in place, you can reinstall the body panel or trim piece. Be sure to align the panel or trim piece correctly and push it into place until it snaps into position.

Tips

If you are having difficulty removing a damaged or broken clip, you can use a pair of pliers to gently pry it out of the hole or slot. Be careful not to damage the surrounding body panel or trim piece.
Make sure to align the new clip correctly before pushing it into place. If the clip is not aligned correctly, it may not snap into position properly and could come loose.
If you are replacing a large number of plastic body clips, it may be helpful to purchase a kit that includes a variety of different clips. This will ensure that you have the right clips for each application.

Conclusion

Replacing plastic body clips is a relatively simple and inexpensive task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. By following the instructions above, you can easily replace any damaged or broken clips and restore the look and functionality of your car.