Removing the chrome trunk trim on a Nissan X-Trail T31: instructions with nuances

Chrome trim on rear door Nissan X-Trail T31 (2007–2013) - an element that becomes dull over time, becomes scratched, or requires replacement if damaged. Many owners are afraid to remove it themselves for fear of breaking the plastic clips or damaging the paintwork. In fact, the procedure is no more complicated than replacing headlight bulbs, if you know the location of hidden fasteners and use the right tools.

This article contains a step-by-step analysis, taking into account unique features of the lining fastenings specifically on the T31 (different from T32!), tips on choosing tools and ways to avoid common mistakes. We will not convince you of the simplicity of the task - we’d rather honestly warn you about the pitfalls, for example, how do not strip the threads on the bolts or not leave marks on the chrome when dismantling.

Preparation: tools and working conditions

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. The absence of even one tool can turn a 20-minute procedure into an hour of agony. Here is the minimum set:

• 🔧 Plastic clip remover (or a set of 2-3 pieces of different widths). Metal spatulas are not suitable - they scratch the chrome!
• 🔩 10 mm socket wrench (or head with extension). Exactly 10 mm, not 8 or 12 - the trim bolts on the T31 are a non-standard size.
• 🧲 Magnetic holder for bolts (so as not to lose them in the trunk).
• 🧴 Silicone grease (For example, WD-40 Specialist) for processing rubber seals before reinstallation.
• 📸 Smartphone for photographing the location of the clips (useful during assembly).

It is better to work in a garage or outside in dry weather. If the temperature is below +10°C, plastic clips become fragile - the risk of breaking them increases 3 times. Also in advance disconnect the negative terminal of the battery, if you plan to work with electricians (for example, when replacing a parking sensor integrated into the trim).

⚠️ Attention: Do not use a hair dryer to heat the pad before removing it! The chrome plating on the T31 has an adhesive base, which can peel off when heated above +60°C. It's best to work at room temperature.

Localization of fasteners: where to look for bolts and clips

On Nissan X-Trail T31 The trunk trim is secured with a combination of:

• 🔹 4 bolts (2 on each side, hidden under plastic plugs).
• 🔹 6 plastic clips (3 on top and 3 on bottom, under the seal).
• 🔹 2 latches on the sides (fix the trim to the body).

The bolts are located symmetrically, but access to them is blocked by decorative plugs. To remove them you need:

1. Carefully pry off the plug flat screwdriver (wrapped with electrical tape to avoid scratching the chrome).
2. Turn it counterclockwise 90° - it will come out of the grooves.
3. Place the plugs in a separate box so as not to confuse the left and right (they are mirrored!).

Mounting type	Quantity	Location	Removal tool
M6 bolts	4 pcs.	Under the plugs on the sides of the lining	10 mm socket wrench
Plastic clips	6 pcs.	Under the top/bottom seal	Plastic puller
Side latches	2 pcs.	Along the edges of the trim (closer to the lights)	Hands (manually push-ups)

Clips often break when removed carelessly. If you are planning reuse the overlay, buy a set of new clips in advance (article number for T31 - Nissan 80310-4M000). They cost a penny, but their absence will make reverse installation impossible.

Step-by-step dismantling: from bolts to clips

Start with the bolts - this is the easiest part. After removing them, the cover will be held in place only by clips and latches, which will make it easier to remove.

Step 1: Unscrew the bolts

Use a 10 mm socket wrench with an extension (it is difficult to reach the bolts without it). Unscrew them not completely - first loosen 2-3 turns, then unscrew completely. If the bolt is stuck, apply WD-40 and wait 5 minutes. Never use a hammer or chisel - the threads in the T31 body are soft and break off easily!

Step 2: Press the side latches

They are located closer to the rear lights. Gently press the trim from the inside (from the trunk side) and pull it towards you. You will hear a characteristic click - this means that the latch has come out of the groove. Do not use force - if the cover does not budge, check that all the bolts are unscrewed.

Step 3: Remove the clips

This is the most critical stage. Start with top of the lining (there the clips are less loaded). Insert the plastic puller between the trim and the body and gently push down until the clip comes out of the groove. Move from the center to the edges. If the clip breaks, don't panic—the broken pieces can be removed with tweezers.

⚠️ Attention: Do not pull the trim by the chrome surface - the coating may peel off! Only hold onto the plastic base on the inside.

After removing all the clips, carefully remove the pad, holding it on both sides. If it is tight, check to see if there are any unnoticed fasteners. At this stage you can clean seats from dirt and old grease - this will make reinstallation easier.

What to do if the clip is left in the body?

If the plastic clip breaks off and a part remains in the groove, use a thin hook (can be bent from wire) or tweezers. Do not try to pry it out with a screwdriver - you risk damaging the paintwork of the body.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when removing the trim. Here are the most common:

• 🔧 Using metal tools for prying off plugs or clips. Result: scratches on chrome or chips on plastic.
• 🔩 Use of excessive force when unscrewing the bolts. On the T31, the threads in the body often “break” if the key is overtightened.
• 🧲 Lost bolts or plugs. They are small and easily fall into the cracks of the trunk.
• 🧴 Ignoring seal lubrication when reinstalling. After a year, the lining will begin to creak.

Another common problem is Parking sensor wiring damage (if installed). On the T31, the sensor is integrated into the cover plate and its cable passes through a special groove. When removing the cover, do not pull the wire - it may come off the connector!

If you remove the cover to painting or polishing, do not place it on concrete or asphalt - the chrome coating is soft and scratches easily. Use cardboard or soft cloth.

Reverse installation: nuances and tips

Putting the trim back on is more difficult than removing it - accuracy and consistency are important here. Start by checking all the clips: if they are warped, replace them with new ones. Old clips lose their elasticity and do not provide a tight fit.

Procedure:

1. Make sure that all seats on the body are clean (remove dirt and old grease).
2. Place the trim on the body, aligning the bolt holes.
3. Secure the bolts not completely (tighten to 70% force).
4. Snap the side latches into place (you should hear a click).
5. Gently press the pad down from top to bottom until the clips snap into place.
6. Tighten the bolts all the way (but do not overtighten!).
7. Install the decorative caps by turning them clockwise.

After installation, check for any gaps between the trim and the body. If they are, it means the clips are not in place - you will have to repeat the process. Also open and close the trunk several times to ensure that the trim does not move.

⚠️ Attention: If, after installation, the pad “walks” or makes strange sounds when moving, the problem is in the clips. Don't ignore this - vibration will damage the chrome plating over time.

Frequently asked questions after dismantling

Owners Nissan X-Trail T31 often encounter additional problems after removing the pad. Here are the answers to the most popular ones:

Is it possible to polish chrome trim without removing it?

Technically yes, but the quality will be worse. Without dismantling, you will not be able to treat the inner corners and areas near the clips, where the most oxidation accumulates. In addition, when polishing on site, there is a high risk of damaging the paintwork of the body with abrasives.

If you still decide to polish without removing, cover the adjacent surfaces with masking tape and use soft polishes without abrasives (For example, Sonax Chrome Polish).

How to remove rust from trim fasteners?

Rust on bolts or clips is a common problem in cars older than 10 years. To clean:

1. Remove the bolts and soak them in vinegar or rust converter (For example, WD-40 Specialist Rust Remover) for 1–2 hours.
2. Clean with a wire brush (for bolts) or a toothpick (for clips).
3. Apply to bolt threads copper grease before reinstallation.

If the clips are so rusty that they crumble in your hands, replace them with new ones (see article above).

What should I do if the cover does not fit snugly after installation?

There may be several reasons:

• 🔹 Deformed clips - replace them.
• 🔹 Dirt in the seats - clear the grooves of debris.
• 🔹 Misalignment when tightening bolts — loosen the bolts and align the trim.
• 🔹 Damaged seal - if the rubber is torn, replace it (part number for T31 - Nissan 80250-4M000).

If the problem persists, check whether the body itself is bent at the attachment point (for example, after an accident). In this case, straightening may be required.

Can the chrome trim be painted a different color?

Yes, but the process is labor-intensive. The chrome coating does not hold paint and must be completely removed (by sandblasting or chemical means). Alternative options:

• 🔹 Vinyl wrap (for example, matte or glossy film). Cheaper and faster, but less durable.
• 🔹 Powder painting after removing the chromium. Expensive, but the results last for years.
• 🔹 Hydroprinting (to imitate carbon fiber or other textures).

If you want to keep the metallic sheen but change the shade, consider tinting chrome (for example, blue or green).

When to contact the service

Although removing the trunk lining Nissan X-Trail T31 - a task that is feasible even for beginners; there are situations when it is better to trust professionals:

• 🔧 If the bolts are so stuck that they cannot be unscrewed even after WD-40 and heating (risk of stripping threads).
• 🎨 If you plan complete chrome restoration (polishing, chrome plating, painting) - the service will do this using specialized equipment.
• 🚗 If the overlay is damaged as a result of an accident and requires straightening or replacement.
• 🔌 If the wiring of the parking sensor or rear light was damaged during dismantling.

The cost of service work to remove/install the lining on the T31 usually does not exceed 1,500–2,500 rubles (depending on the region). If restoration of chrome is required, prices start from 5,000 rubles. For comparison: a new original chrome molding for the trunk will cost 12,000–15,000 rubles (item no. Nissan 96801-4M000).

If you are not confident in your abilities, but want to save money, try searching on the forums X-Trail Club T31 owners in your city - they often help each other with similar work for a nominal fee or even for free.