Hello- Can someone tell me how to remove the plastic clips that hold the liner to the inside of the trunk on a 2002 ES300? Hopefully without breaking them.
Sorry about the large photo size. I'll get it right next time.

 

Small flathead screwdriver with some leverage underneath the arm of the screwdriver to pull it straight up. If removed properly they can be reused at least several times with only minimal damage to the screw (they resemble screws; they aren't clips).

 

It's very hard to use a screw driver, because you need to pull straight out. I recommend the smaller-type wire strippers. They pinch on both sides, giving you enough grip to pull the plastic screw out. Although I'll warn you that the screw will get slightly damaged, but it can still be reused.

 

in the past ive used a flat head / string. theres a specific tool designed to get these out although i dont know what its called

 

I literally did this yesterday as I am in the process of replacing my backup camera. I had all 9 (maybe 10 I forget) screws out in 2-3 minutes via the method I described. Not hard at all. Your method will destroy the head and make it that much more difficult should you ever need to remove the screws again in the future.

 

I'm sure both methods work well, I just prefer the one I posted. I've done this as well.

 

Been using the proper panel tool for years to remove clips like that, works great.


A very useful and cheap addition to the tool box. You could also use something like these, good for panel clips and also for popping out all sorts of trim without damage.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. Today I tried two small paint can openers, one on each side of the clip, and the clip came right out! No damage to the clip at all... So, problem solved! Now I just have to wait for one of the trunk-located bulbs to fail so I can take all the clips out! -Richard W.