so i'm taking off my front bumper, but can't figure out how to get the clips with the philips head screw in the center. if i turn it, the screw just spins in place.

is there a trick? i checked the manual and it just says turn counter clockwise, i've tried both under the car, in the wheel wells and the screw will always just spin

answers? seems pretty easy but it's my first time taking off the bumper.

 

Get a small flat screwdriver to help assist pulling it out as you are turning the screw counterclockwise.

 

Sounds to me like your screw or clip is stripped out. I just installed a few of these clips over the weekend and they unscrewed as intended for removal.

 

The plastic screw is the one you are talking about right? If it is, then just use your finger nail and pull the middle part out.

 

Pry the little screw inside up just a little bit. Then try to unscrew it the rest of the way out. I hate those little screws, they're always breaking.

 

ah thanks so much. you're right the plastic screws. i like the instant gratification of this board.

 

i just cut them and put new ones in

 

Some will suck and you will have to cut them... I think they are like $1.50/ea from the dealer

If you just touch the side if it with your hand that is not screwing, and don't push at all on them while you are trying to unscrew (don't strip them!) they should come out pretty easily. A small cats claw/prybar might help also.

The reason they don't go anywhere when you push on them is because they are made to screw out, but simply push back in (speeds things up at the factory).

 

ok i just completed taking off my front bumper.

tips:
1. just rip the stupid philips clips out. i got fed up with them, and just used a flathead to pry them up, then needle nosed and yanked the whole thing out. took like 15 mins after that. and they are still intact.

2. i got stuck taking off the intercooler mesh. had to reach under with a 10mm socket and get the 6 or so bolts off.

 

Thats what I did, and I highly recommend only installing half of them as needed, as it will make your next removal all that much easier.