RX - 3rd Gen (2010-2015) Discussion topics related to the 2010 - 2015 RX350 and RX450H models

Plastic trim removal engine compartment

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Old 07-11-17, 03:02 PM
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2106
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Default Plastic trim removal engine compartment

I removed the little round plastic buttons holding down some of the trim in the engine compartment by pushing down in the center of the button and the button itself popped right out. Now when I replace the buttons into the trim the center stays down and won't pop up allowing for the button to hold the trim in place. They will pull right back out. What am I doing wrong or missing here?
Old 07-11-17, 03:08 PM
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Barry2522
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You have to push the pin up above the head of the clip before you install the clip into the hole . Then put clip in hole and push center pin flush with head of clip
Its a little tricky getting the pin up above the head once you figure it out its easy .
Old 07-11-17, 03:15 PM
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Got it - Done - Many THANKS !!
Old 07-11-17, 07:36 PM
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I made the mistake of leaving the pins in the cover once I released them. I was hoping that once I lift the panel out, the pins will come along. A little jostle and I lost 2 pins int the engine bay. I guess I will have to pay the higher price to the local dealer as the shipping cost will not be trivial.

So if any one release the pin, make sure to collect it immediately.

Salim
Old 07-12-17, 10:30 AM
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F250
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These pin button clips are cheap and available all over the internet, you just have to be careful about which size you get. I need to order a bunch just to have on hand because the little plastic tabs have a tendency to sometimes break off which leaves the clip with minimal to no "grip". These kinds of clips are used all over our vehicles (and on many other makes/models as well).
Old 02-13-18, 06:55 PM
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TriniLex
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Default How to remove engine cover on rx350

Any tips on how to remove the silver engine cover?
thanks
Old 02-14-18, 06:53 AM
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Clutchless
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That silver plastic cover is the engine valve cover cover and you can just pull it up. Grab around an edge and slowly pull until you feel it get loose, then work your way around. I recall there are 2 or 4 plastic plugs that snap into place.

Last edited by Clutchless; 02-14-18 at 01:19 PM.
Old 02-14-18, 07:07 AM
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HaywardLex
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Default NAPA Has Pins

My local NAPA has the pins. They have a rack full of different sizes and styles available, bring in a pin with you and match it up to the size you need. They come in packages of 6-10 each and cost as much for a package as you pay for a single pin at the dealer.
Old 02-14-18, 10:08 AM
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MellonC00
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I hate those pins. I ordered "compatible" ones from Amazon only to find out that they don't simply pop out with a push of your finger. Those required sticking in a flat head screw driver to pry them out. In any case, I got sick of dealing with them (I lost 3 already) and removed the panels. I asked this question to the forum about a year ago and everyone replied that the panels do nothing functional.
Old 02-14-18, 10:38 AM
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salimshah
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Originally Posted by MellonC00
I hate those pins. I ordered "compatible" ones from Amazon only to find out that they don't simply pop out with a push of your finger. Those required sticking in a flat head screw driver to pry them out. In any case, I got sick of dealing with them (I lost 3 already) and removed the panels. I asked this question to the forum about a year ago and everyone replied that the panels do nothing functional.
Push down releases the lock. If you cant pick them up, leave them there and simply lift the panel up. Dont tip as you may drop them and not be able to retrieve them. [see my post #4 in this thread]

They come in various sizes ... so make sure you order the right part.

Salim
Old 07-20-19, 01:37 PM
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Randyp1234
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I know this is an ancient thread but can anyone post an Amazon link to these clips that will fit? I've seen that there are different sizes and would like to get the correct ones.

Thanks!!

Randy
Old 07-20-19, 04:14 PM
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cookie4u
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Originally Posted by Randyp1234
I know this is an ancient thread but can anyone post an Amazon link to these clips that will fit? I've seen that there are different sizes and would like to get the correct ones.

Thanks!!

Randy

Amazon Amazon
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Old 07-20-19, 05:08 PM
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Thanks cookie4u!!!
Old 07-24-19, 07:06 PM
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lexuspleus
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I wish I'd read this before taking the plastic fasteners off mine. I did it the wrong way. Some are damaged and some flew off into nowhere land. Some don't work after the abuse I subjected them to.

Aside from the dealer, anyone know where the best place is to get extra fasteners?
Old 07-25-19, 03:32 AM
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iolmaster
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Originally Posted by lexuspleus
I wish I'd read this before taking the plastic fasteners off mine. I did it the wrong way. Some are damaged and some flew off into nowhere land. Some don't work after the abuse I subjected them to.

Aside from the dealer, anyone know where the best place is to get extra fasteners?
Did you even read the thread? Look at post #12.
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