Removing push pin retainer clips can seem daunting to the inexperienced, but is actually quite straightforward once you understand how they work. Push pin clips are used to hold trim and moldings in place without having to drill holes or use permanent fasteners like screws or nails. They utilize a spring-loaded pin design that compresses when inserted into a hole and then springs back to lock the clip in place. To remove them, you simply need to understand how to release the locking mechanism so they can be pulled free.
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What are push pin retainer clips?
Push pin retainer clips, also sometimes called Christmas tree clips or molding clips, are small plastic fasteners that have a broad head at one end with flexible “arms” that angle outwards and a pin at the other end. The arms can compress inwards to allow the pin to be inserted into a hole. Once inserted, the arms spring back out to secure the clip in place.
The broad head gives the push pin clip its hold against the surface of whatever it is fastened to, like a car interior panel. And the anchor-like pin when inserted into a post or hole prevents the clip from pulling back out. This makes them a quick, easy way to attach moldings, trim pieces, wiring looms and more without drilling or using permanent fasteners.
Typical uses of push pin clips
Some common uses of push pin retainer clips include:
- Attaching interior trim pieces and moldings on vehicles like door panels, wheel well liners, pillar covers, etc.
- Securing wiring harnesses and loom conduits to vehicle bodies
- Holding appliance panels and housings in place
- Attaching furniture trim and moldings
- Securing poster frames and similar objects to walls
The flexibility and ease of use of push pin clips makes them popular for securing objects where a more permanent fastener like a screw or weld is not necessary. Their design allows them to be quickly installed and removed while still providing a solid connection.
How do push pin retainer clips work?
Push pin clips work using a smart spring-loaded design. Here are the components and operation:
Head – The broad top provides the gripping surface and pull-out resistance. The head presses against the attachment surface.
Flexible arms – Angled arms connect the head to the pin. They can squeeze inwards then spring back out.
Pin – The anchor-like pin inserts into holes or posts. It is sized for a tight friction fit.
Operation – Pushing the head/arms into a hole compresses them inward. Once fully inserted, the arms spring outward to lock the clip in the hole. Gripping the head pulls the pin out.
This arrangement creates a temporary fastener that is easily installed by pressing it into place, but resists pulling out until the arms are manually compressed again. The clips can be removed and reused multiple times.
How to remove push pin retainer clips
Removing push pin clips takes a little bit of technique, but becomes quite simple once you get the hang of it. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Locate the push pin clips
Examine the area where the trim or component you want to remove is located. Look for the telltale round plastic heads of the push pin clips. These are often found along edges or seams where two pieces meet.
Tip: Glide your fingers over seams to feel for clips. Refer to vehicle or product manuals for clip locations.
Step 2: Release the center pin
Most push pin clips have a center pin that is engaged with a post or hole. This pin needs to be released before the clip can be removed.
Use a small flat head screwdriver or pick tool to press down on the center pin. This disengages the pin from the post and allows it to retract inside the clip head. The pin will remain partially extended.
Step 3: Pry up the head
With the center pin released, you can now pry up the outer head of the clip. Insert the flat head screwdriver under the lip of the head and gently pry it up. This will take some force.
As you lift, the angle arms will compress inward, allowing the whole clip to dislodge. Don’t wedge the screwdriver too far or you can break the clip.
Step 4: Pull the clip out
Once the head releases its grip, pull the entire push pin clip out of the hole. The arms will remain compressed as you extract it.
Make sure to pull straight out without angling. The clip will release freely once extracted a few millimeters so you can pull the rest of the way by hand.
Step 5: Remove component or trim
With the push pin clips removed, you can now detach the trim, molding, or other component they were holding in place. Carefully pull it free from the surface.
To reinstall, simply press the clips back into their holes until the pins engage and the arms lock them in place. Apply pressure around the head to ensure full contact.
Helpful tips for removing push pin clips
Follow these tips for smooth, easy push pin clip removal:
- Use a washer or magnet to catch clips so they don’t fall into cavities
- Press pins in fully before prying up heads
- Start prying gently and increase pressure gradually
- Pull straight out, don’t angle or wiggle the clip
- Replace damaged clips rather than reusing them
Tools for removing push pin clips
You can remove most push pin retainers clips using just a standard flat head screwdriver. But specialized automotive trim tools make the task much easier. Useful tools include:
- Pick tools – Great for releasing the center pins of clips
- Panel removal tools – Plastic pry tools that protect surfaces
- Upholstery/trim tools – Sets with different shaped prying ends
- Needle nose pliers – For gripping and pulling clips
Investing in quality trim tools helps avoid damaging clips or interior surfaces like door panels. But in a pinch, that trusty flat head screwdriver can get the job done.
Tips for installing push pin clips
Here are some quick tips for properly installing push pin clips:
- Make sure mounting holes are clear of obstructions
- Press clips in straight, don’t angle them
- Listen/feel for the click when pins engage posts
- Ensure clip heads are flat against the surface
- Avoid over-tightening clips
- Replace any damaged clips
Taking care during installation ensures the clips hold securely. Uneven or inadequate pressure can lead to loose clips and fallen trim pieces down the road.
Common problems removing push pin clips
While removing push pin clips is straightforward, here are some common issues that arise:
| Problem | Solution |
| Can’t grip clip head | Use a small flat screwdriver to pry under the lip of the head for leverage. Take care not to break off the head. |
| Pin won’t release from post | Use a pick tool and press firmly on the pin. Wiggle it slightly to disengage it. |
| Arms getting stuck | Don’t force the clip out if it doesn’t slide smoothly. Compress arms and reinsert to try again. |
| Clip breaks during removal | Stop and examine if any pieces remain. Remove carefully. Replace broken clips. |
| Clip falls into cavity | Use magnets, adhesive, hooks or tools to retrieve it if reachable. May require removing surrounding components. |
Staying patient and using proper technique will help avoid most issues. Cracked or deformed clips should always be replaced.
Conclusion
While they seem daunting at first, with the right approach, push pin retainer clips can be easily removed once you understand how they work. The key steps are:
- Locate the clips and release the center pin
- Pry up the outer head to compress the arms
- Pull the entire clip straight out of the hole
Having proper automotive trim tools makes removal easier, but only a basic flat screwdriver is required. Just take care not to damage the clips or surrounding surfaces. With a little practice, you’ll be popping these fasteners in and out with ease.
So next time you need to remove a door panel or access a component held on by push pin clips, don’t fret. Just follow these steps and those pesky plastic clips will come out without a fight. You’ve got this!