How To Remove Trunk Liner Clips? (Step-by-Step Guide)
Trunk liner clips are small plastic or metal fasteners that secure the trunk liner to the trunk of a car. Over time, these clips can become damaged or lost, which can result in the liner becoming loose and sagging. Removing these clips can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re not sure how to do it properly. It’s important to remove them carefully and without damaging either the clips or the liner, so you can reuse them or replace them with new ones.
The good news is that removing trunk liner clips is a relatively simple task, and can be done with just a few tools and a little bit of patience. In this article, we will go over the step-by-step process of how to remove trunk liner clips without damaging them, as well as some tips and tricks to make the process easier and more efficient. Whether you’re replacing your trunk liner or simply need to remove a few clips, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know.
Are Trunk Liner Clips Disposable?
Trunk liner clips are not necessarily disposable, but they can become damaged or worn over time and may need to be replaced. These clips are designed to hold the trunk liner in place and prevent it from shifting or rattling while driving. Over time, the clips may become brittle or weakened due to exposure to heat or UV rays, causing them to break or lose their grip.
It is also possible for trunk liner clips to become dislodged or lost during maintenance or repair work, requiring replacement. Fortunately, these clips are relatively inexpensive and widely available at auto parts stores or online.
If you notice that your trunk liner is loose or making noise while driving, it is important to inspect the clips and replace any that are damaged or missing. In the following sections, we will discuss how to remove trunk liner clips and replace them as needed.
Will A Pliers Break Trunk Liner Clips?
Using pliers to remove trunk liner clips may not be the best option because it can break the clips. Trunk liner clips are usually made of plastic, and pliers can apply too much force, causing the clips to snap. Additionally, pliers may not be able to grasp the clips properly, resulting in the clips slipping and becoming more difficult to remove.
Instead, it is recommended to use a trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver. These tools are designed specifically for removing clips without damaging them or the surrounding material. To use a trim removal tool, insert the flat end between the clip and the panel and gently pry the clip out. Alternatively, for a flathead screwdriver, insert the blade into the gap between the clip and the panel and use it as a lever to release the clip.
It is important to note that some trunk liner clips may have unique designs or placements, so it is essential to consult the vehicle’s manual or do some research before attempting to remove them to avoid damaging the clips or the surrounding material.
Are Trunk Liner Clips Interchangeable?
Trunk liner clips can vary in size and shape depending on the make and model of the vehicle. While some clips may look similar, they may not be interchangeable due to slight variations in design. It is always best to use the recommended clip for your specific vehicle to ensure proper fit and function.
If you are unsure about the compatibility of a particular clip, consult your vehicle owner’s manual or contact a trusted mechanic or dealership for assistance. Using the wrong clip can result in a loose or unstable trunk liner, which can be a safety hazard while driving.
Some manufacturers may have different types of clips used in different areas of the trunk liner. Be sure to carefully inspect the clips and their locations before attempting to remove or replace them to avoid damaging the liner or other parts of the vehicle.
Where Can I Buy Trunk Line Clips?
Trunk line clips are commonly used in the telecommunications and networking industries to organize and secure cables. They can be found at various hardware stores and online retailers that specialize in networking and telecommunications equipment.
Some popular options for purchasing trunk line clips include:
- Home Depot – They offer a variety of trunk line clips and cable management solutions in-store and online.
- Amazon – Amazon has a wide selection of trunk line clips from different brands and at various price points.
- Lowe’s – Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s carries a range of trunk line clips and cable management products.
- Grainger – Grainger specializes in industrial supplies and has a range of trunk line clips and cable management products for purchase.
- Monoprice – Monoprice is an online retailer that specializes in audio/video equipment and has a selection of trunk line clips available.
What Tool Should I Use To Remove Trunk Liner Clips?
Trunk liner clips can be removed using a special tool called a trim panel removal tool or a trim clip removal tool. This tool is specifically designed to remove clips and fasteners without damaging the surrounding material or the clips themselves.
Here’s how you can use a trim panel removal tool to remove trunk liner clips:
- Insert the tip of the tool under the edge of the clip.
- Gently pry the clip up and away from the liner.
- If the clip does not come out easily, try wiggling the tool back and forth while prying to loosen the clip.
- Once the clip is loose, remove it by hand or with pliers.
It’s important to use a trim panel removal tool or a trim clip removal tool because using a screwdriver or other sharp object can damage the surrounding material or the clips themselves, making it difficult to reattach the liner or clips later.
How Do Professional Mechanics And Dealers Remove Trunk Liner Clips?
Professional mechanics and dealers may use the same tool as mentioned earlier, which is a trim panel removal tool or a trim clip removal tool, to remove trunk liner clips. However, they may also have additional techniques and tools that they use to make the process more efficient.
One technique that professionals may use is to first inspect the trunk liner to identify the location of the clips and determine the best approach for removing them. They may also use a flashlight to get a better view of the clips and the surrounding area.
Another tool that professionals may use is a clip removal plier. These pliers are specially designed to grip the clip and provide more leverage when prying it loose. They can be particularly helpful for stubborn clips or clips that are difficult to reach.
In addition, professionals may use a heat gun to soften the material around the clips, making it easier to remove them without damaging the liner or the clips. They may also use a lubricant, such as silicone spray, to help the clips slide out more easily.
Overall, professional mechanics and dealers may use a combination of techniques and tools to remove trunk liner clips quickly and efficiently, while minimizing the risk of damage to the liner or clips.
Can The Guys At The Dealership Remove Trunk Liner Clips For Me?
Yes, the technicians at a dealership should be able to remove trunk liner clips for you. They have the expertise and tools needed to safely remove the clips without damaging the surrounding material or the clips themselves.
If you’re having other work done on your vehicle at the dealership, such as an oil change or inspection, you can ask the technician to remove the trunk liner clips for you while they’re working on the car. They may be able to do this quickly and easily, and it may not require any additional charge.
If you’re not having any other work done at the dealership, you can still bring your vehicle in and ask them to remove the trunk liner clips. Depending on the dealership’s policies, they may charge a fee for this service. It’s best to call ahead and ask about their policy and pricing for this type of service.
Overall, the guys at the dealership should be able to remove trunk liner clips for you, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and ask about their policies and pricing to ensure that you’re prepared.
Can I Use A Hammer To Pry Out The Clips?
No, using a hammer to pry out trunk liner clips is not recommended. Doing so can damage the surrounding material and the clips themselves, making it difficult to reattach the liner or clips later.
Trunk liner clips are designed to be removed using a specific tool, such as a trim panel removal tool or a trim clip removal tool, that allows you to safely and gently pry the clips out without damaging the surrounding material or the clips.
Using a hammer or other sharp object to remove the clips can cause the material around the clips to crack or break, which may require expensive repairs to fix. In addition, using a hammer can cause the clips to break or deform, which may make them difficult to reattach or require you to purchase new clips altogether.
To avoid damaging your vehicle and the trunk liner clips, it’s best to use the appropriate tool for removing the clips and follow the proper techniques for doing so. If you’re unsure of how to remove the clips or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to seek professional assistance.
What If I Use The Lining As Leverage And Use It To Remove The Clips?
Using the trunk liner as leverage to remove the clips is not recommended. The trunk liner is typically made of a thin and flexible material that can tear or stretch if pulled too hard, causing damage to the liner or the clips themselves.
If you use the liner as leverage to remove the clips, you risk damaging the liner, which may require expensive repairs to fix. In addition, if the clips are pulled out too forcefully, they can break or deform, making them difficult to reattach or requiring you to purchase new clips.
To avoid damaging your vehicle and the trunk liner clips, it’s best to use the appropriate tool for removing the clips and follow the proper techniques for doing so. Using a trim panel removal tool or a trim clip removal tool allows you to safely and gently pry the clips out without damaging the surrounding material or the clips.
If you’re unsure of how to remove the clips or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to seek professional assistance to avoid causing damage to your vehicle.
Why Should I Remove Trunk Liner Clips?
There are several reasons why you may need to remove trunk liner clips:
Accessing the trunk components
The trunk liner covers various components of your vehicle’s trunk, such as the spare tire, jack, and battery. If you need to access these components for maintenance or repair, you’ll need to remove the liner and the clips that hold it in place.
Installing aftermarket accessories
If you’re installing aftermarket accessories, such as a subwoofer or amplifier, you may need to remove the trunk liner to access the necessary wiring and install the components. This may require removing the clips that hold the liner in place.
Cleaning the trunk
Over time, the trunk liner can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, which can make it look dirty and affect the overall cleanliness of your vehicle. Removing the liner and the clips that hold it in place allows you to clean the trunk thoroughly and remove any accumulated debris.
Customizing the trunk
If you’re customizing the trunk of your vehicle, you may need to remove the liner and the clips that hold it in place to install custom lighting, sound systems, or other modifications.
You may need to remove trunk liner clips for various reasons, such as accessing the trunk components, installing aftermarket accessories, cleaning the trunk, or customizing the trunk of your vehicle. Whatever the reason, it’s important to use the appropriate tools and techniques to remove the clips safely and avoid damaging your vehicle.
