Any Tricks to Removing License Plate Light Clip?

[hsull55555]

I am having a hard time removing the plastic phillips head screw, in the clip for the license plate light housing. It just spins, even if I put pressure on the back of the clip with a clip removal tool, it will not come out. Does anyone have the answer?

Thanks for your help in advance,


hsull55555

 

[tonydiv]

I'm pretty sure that those are expansion fasteners. The 'screw' needs to be pulled out and then the 'molly' part will collapse and allow you to pull the cover off.

 

[ExpeditionAndy]

I am having a hard time removing the plastic phillips head screw, in the clip for the license plate light housing. It just spins, even if I put pressure on the back of the clip with a clip removal tool, it will not come out. Does anyone have the answer?

Thanks for your help in advance,


hsull55555

You may have to remove the interior trim on the rear hatch and grip the little plastic pieces with with a vice grip to keep it from turning while you unscrew it from the front. Then you can pinch the four prongs together and push it out the front. Or as a last resort since it is only nylon you can drill it out and pull it through.

 

[darmahsd]

What tonydiv said. I just grabbed the "phillips head" with vise grip or pliers and pulled. Relieves the expansion fingers. Replaced with LED and silicone grease. No more problems. Buy new fasteners at any bodyshop supply store. These rear license plate lights burn out on the 2nd gens all the time.