Hi,

I don't know what the plastic plugs are called, seems when I search I wind up getting "spark plug" answers.... so....

How do I remove the little hold down plugs that hold the plastic molding in the engine compartment?

I've used a small knife to pull the inner part out, then the plug comes out, but it seems there should be a better way, no?

~~ Mark

 

Uh, no. There isn't a better way. I use a very small screwdriver to pop-out that middle part, but a small knife ought to work OK too. Yes, once the middle piece is popped up, then you can pop out the bottom piece. You can buy replacements at Toyota dealers for those you lose.

 

Actually you're supposed to push the center until it clicks, then the entire clip should be loose enough to take out.

 

Discussed in your Owner's Manual, page 747 in this example:

http://drivers.lexus.com/t3Portal/do.../sec_04_03.pdf

 

You can order a 10-pack of replacements from Amazon Prime . It's a good idea to have a few spares.

 

Hi Mark,
I had trouble with those clips too. Someone at the dealer showed me how to press down the middle part first. They pop out easily. Getting them back in requires three steps as shown in the pictures on page 747. They are tricky. Three prongs with one prong longer than the other two. Hope this helps. Be careful. They tend to fly away and get lost, at least mine did.

 

I too struggled for weeks trying to figure it out. I read the manual, watched the videos, searched the forums. I finally figured out I wasn't pressing hard enough. The clips or fasteners appear like they are pushed in all the way, but apply enough pressure , you hear and feel the click. Preparing the clips to place them back in position may require the use of a screwdriver to free the pin.
And yes order extra, I have one that fell into the engine compartment and never fell out and can't find it anywhere

 

Thanks! Just ordered from Amazon. Will fit my Toyotas and the RX.

 

Although these clips will work they are not OEM for the RX................................. you need to go to the dealer or order from http://lexus.sewellparts.com/ Just my 2 cents.

 

Those caps are a marvel of engineering and easy to appreciate once you figured out how to use them.

 

Here is an engine cover clip video and price from Seawell.
Ray
http://lexus.sewellparts.com/accesso...2013/4432.html

 

OEM for the RX here @ a better price

 

I found a Lisle 35260 Plastic Fastener Remover tool which I ordered from Amazon to be very helpful in removing the plastic fasteners. I sort of looks like a screwdriver with a v groove. Works well !
Tony A177