Front Grille Removal - Top Clips Won't Budge!?

[DiddlyDonker]

Hi guys,

I know there are plenty of threads on how to remove the grille (the top one with the S badge) and I know what needs to be done:

Lever out the top clips then pull the grill out.

But I can't get the top clips out. Anyone have any tips? I've tried levering them out with a flat head screwdriver but they won't move. I've broke the top of the one already! Really frustrating.

Thanks in advance.

 

[kazand]

Hi guys,

I know there are plenty of threads on how to remove the grille (the top one with the S badge) and I know what needs to be done:

Lever out the top clips then pull the grill out.

But I can't get the top clips out. Anyone have any tips? I've tried levering them out with a flat head screwdriver but they won't move. I've broke the top of the one already! Really frustrating.

Thanks in advance.

As you look at the clips (or clip, in your case now ) there is a small bit in the centre. You need to raise that up about 5mm , that allows the clip to contract, then lever the whole thing out . I Found using two of the GF's best dinner knives did the job . no responsibility for cutlery based injury is accepted

 

[DiddlyDonker]

As you look at the clips (or clip, in your case now ) there is a small bit in the centre. You need to raise that up about 5mm , that allows the clip to contract, then lever the whole thing out . I Found using two of the GF's best dinner knives did the job . no responsibility for cutlery based injury is accepted

I'm not sure what you mean by the 'small bit in the center'. Do you have or are you able to get any pictures? No probs if not.

Is the broken clip stuck in there now then?

Thanks for the reply.

 

[kazand]

Can't get pics as not got Mk2 any more. Bit hard to explain, but the clip is in two parts. The centre piece pushes down into the body and opens two prongs that secure the clip. It's a bit like a Rawl plug. You need to remove the centre part, or at least lift it up enough to allow the prongs to retract. That's what I used the GF's knives for! They are fragile though, I poured some hot water over them first. Sorry I can't explain more.

 

[KebabWarrior81]

Hi Mate Andy has the mk3 now so might struggle to get any pics. I'll get you some in the morning,regards the one you snapped it could be possible to push the middle Pin up from underneath but will check in the morning.

As can't remember what the access is like off the top of me head.Last resort would be to drill it out then get a new clip.

 

[kazand]

Hi Mate Andy has the mk3 now so might struggle to get any pics. I'll get you some in the morning,regards the one you snapped it could be possible to push the middle Pin up from underneath but will check in the morning.

As can't remember what the access is like off the top of me head.Last resort would be to drill it out then get a new clip.

Thanks mate. I did find some pics on line but My photobucket account is having a wobbly. I just Googled Seat Leon trim clips and it comes up with a few pics. If he was closer I'd pop round with t'missus's best cutlery......

 

[DiddlyDonker]

I tried the cutlery trick and it worked perfectly. Removed the unbroken pin in seconds! My only problem now is that broken clip. Some pics below to show the mess up I did on the broken one:

Unbroken


Broken

 

[DiddlyDonker]

regards the one you snapped it could be possible to push the middle Pin up from underneath but will check in the morning.

If you could that would be great pal.

Thanks for the help guys.

 

[DiddlyDonker]

These what I'd need to buy to replace the broken one if needed?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/10-SEAT-L...ner-clips-grille-light-cowl-54K-/111166511229

 

[kazand]

These what I'd need to buy to replace the broken one if needed?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/10-SEAT-L...ner-clips-grille-light-cowl-54K-/111166511229

I'm not known as a cutlery expert for nothing!!l
They look ok but need to check length and diameter, you don't want a sloppy fit You might be able to repair the broken one using a self tapper.

 

[GS16LRHP]

This should help: http://www.partsbase.org/seat/leon-leon-4-le-eu-2007-80700-bumper/
Part Number (21 in diagram): N90536901
A self tapper should work fine but if you want the genuine part Dave @Sere should be able to help but postage might be high or:
http://www.shop4volkswagen.co.uk/product/Parts_N90536901 or http://www.skodaparts.com/product/yeti-grill-rivet-2009-2013-23339

 

[DiddlyDonker]

This should help: http://www.partsbase.org/seat/leon-leon-4-le-eu-2007-80700-bumper/
Part Number (21 in diagram): N90536901
A self tapper should work fine but if you want the genuine part Dave @Sere should be able to help but postage might be high or:
http://www.shop4volkswagen.co.uk/product/Parts_N90536901 or http://www.skodaparts.com/product/yeti-grill-rivet-2009-2013-23339

Thanks mate. I'll drop Dave a message for my first point of call.

 

[GS16LRHP]

I saw the update from Dave, that's really cool.

 

[DiddlyDonker]

I saw the update from Dave, that's really cool.

It was, couldn't ask for a better service and I'm really greatful for it.