It’s clear that it’s good to replace any broken clips. But are they one-time use only? Do they start rattling more over time as the panels are taken on and off? Has anyone here replaced all the clips after completing an install, just for peace of mind?
I really like this idea. But honestly, whenever I think about door clips, it makes me want to quit working on cars. I can never bring myself to deal with them more than necessary.
I just finished tearing apart an '05 Forester in the cold (not the smartest move haha), and I broke so many clips and tabs. My hands were bleeding before I finally got everything back together. This post definitely gave me flashbacks!
@Mal
I have a collection of clips I’ve ordered over the years, and I keep them organized. Usually, you can look up the OEM part number and find a similar one on Amazon for cheap. A pack of 25 or 50 for about $10. I just ordered some for my Tacoma since I’m doing an upgrade soon.
@Xen
I just did the same for my 4Runner, and it got rid of this annoying rattle that was driving me crazy. Before buying the 50-pack on Amazon for cheap, I called my local Toyota dealership. They wanted $1 each for them 
I grab some every time I visit the pick and yank.
Before I work on a car, I always research the clip part number and buy a bag on Amazon. Usually, they cost between $6 and $10. For the cars we have at home (my 2015 Jeep Compass and my mom’s 2014 Nissan Versa Note), I keep a few bags of the most common clips that I’m likely to remove myself (bumper, wheel wells, interior panels). I also keep a bag for my girlfriend’s 2013 Toyota Corolla. They’re so cheap, it doesn’t make sense not to stock up on them before a job.
Also, don’t try installs without a good quality clip/retainer removal tool. I usually use a flat-head screwdriver to start with the two-part clips, but for removal, my panel tool works the best. The ‘square notch’ tool is great for most modern clips since it has two different notches.
You might be able to find them at your local hardware store, depending on the type.
I order about 20 or so for each car I work on, if I don’t already have that style in my tool chest. Some clips hold up better than others. The ones on my Ram are pretty durable, but others, like the Christmas-tree style, basically break once the panel is pulled off, so I replace those.
Yes, it helps because the door panel is more likely to vibrate, causing cancellations and noise.
Buy the right tools so you don’t damage the clips.
Harper said:
Buy the right tools so you don’t damage the clips.
I agree, but some clips (like the Christmas-tree ones) wear out quickly. Even with the right tools, some still break because they’re made of nylon and get brittle. I’ve also found that some factory clips are really brittle, while replacements from Amazon seem to hold up better. Either way, having spare clips on hand is cheap, so it’s smart to have them before you start the job.
@Reagan
That’s true. Some clips are just impossible to remove without breaking.
Harper said:
@Reagan
That’s true. Some clips are just impossible to remove without breaking.
What do you think about special clip pliers like these… have you used them? Amazon.com: GEARWRENCH Panel Clip Pliers - 3705 : Automotive
Yes, it’s definitely a good idea. Also, it’s really worth it to use OEM panel clips. Don’t go for the cheaper off-brand ones.
Yeah, I work on older cars, and the clips break right away when I remove a panel. So, I’ve gotten into the habit of buying a bulk supply and replacing them whenever I put everything back together.