Clips (or rivets) are small but critical parts that hold trim, bumpers, and other plastic parts in place. Nissan on the spot. Without them, even minor repairs can turn into a nightmare: panels falling off, squeaks and loss of tightness. However, choosing the right set of clips for a specific model is not an easy task. The manufacturer uses dozens of types of fasteners, differing in size, material and fastening principle.

In this article we will look at what clips are used in popular models Nissan (from Qashqai to Patrol), how to properly dismantle and install them, and also reveal secrets that will help save time and nerves. You'll find out why cheap universal sets often break at the first frost, how to recognize a fake and what to do if the clip breaks inside the panel. The material will be useful to both beginners and experienced car owners who want to avoid common mistakes.

What kind of clips are used in Nissan cars?

Concern Nissan uses three main types of clips, which differ in design and purpose:

  • 🔹 Flat pistons - the most common ones, they hold the door trim, center console and ceiling panels. They have a wide head and flexible “legs” for fixation.
  • 🔹 T-clips — used for attaching bumpers, fender liners and heavy plastic parts. They have a reinforced structure and are often equipped with rubber seals.
  • 🔹 Threaded latches - found in places where additional fixation is required (for example, for fastening air ducts or elements of the ventilation system).

In addition, depending on the model and year of manufacture, specialized clips - for example, for Nissan Juke (2010–2019) unique metal-core caps are used, and in Nissan Patrol Y62 — reinforced clamps with an increased contact area. It is important to consider that even within the same model, clips may differ: for example, in Qashqai J11 Different types of fastenings are used for the front bumper and rear trim.

When purchasing a set, pay attention to material of manufacture. Original clips Nissan made from polypropylene or nylon with added fiberglass for strength. Cheap analogues made from ordinary plastic lose elasticity at low temperatures and break during the first dismantling.

📊 What Nissan model do you service?
  • Qashqai
  • X-Trail
  • Juke
  • Patrol
  • Other

How to choose clips for a specific model?

To avoid making a mistake with your choice, follow this algorithm:

  1. Define exact modification your car (for example, Nissan X-Trail T32 2017 with a diesel engine).
  2. Find in the spare parts catalog Nissan (or on sites like EPC) section with fasteners for your model. Usually clips are designated by article numbers like 90410-XXXX or 90460-XXXX.
  3. Visually compare the shapes of the clips in the photographs with those installed in your car. Pay attention to the diameter of the cap, the length of the stem and the presence of o-rings.

For convenience, we have compiled a table with popular models and part numbers of clips that most often require replacement:

Model Nissan Clip type Article number (OEM) Application
Qashqai J11 (2014–2021) Flat piston 90460-4M000 Door trim, center console
X-Trail T32 (2014–2022) T-clip 90410-6N000 Bumper, fenders
Juke F15 (2010–2019) Reinforced piston 90460-3M025 Front panel, air ducts
Patrol Y62 (2010–present) Threaded clip 90430-4M000 Attaching the trunk trim

If you are not sure about the choice, buy universal set of clips for Japanese cars (for example, from 3M or Permatex). It usually includes 50-100 pieces of different types, which will cover 90% of the needs. However, remember: generic clips may not provide the same reliability as original clips.

⚠️ Attention: Do not buy clips “by eye” at your local auto parts store! Even if they look similar, a difference in the diameter of the leg by 1-2 mm can cause the latch to not hold or damage the plastic panel.

Instructions for dismantling and installing clips

Removing and installing clips requires care. Here is a step-by-step algorithm:

  1. Tool preparation. You will need:
    • 🔧 Plastic clip remover (or a flat screwdriver wrapped in electrical tape).
    • 🔦 Flashlight for illuminating hard-to-reach places.
    • 🧲 Magnet on the telescopic handle (to get fallen clips).
  • Dismantling. Insert the puller between the panel and the clip, carefully pry the latch by pulling it perpendicular surfaces. Don't pull sideways - this will break the legs!
  • Cleaning the seat. Remove dirt and dust from the hole where the clip was. Use compressed air or a brush.
  • Installing a new clip. Insert it into the hole until it clicks. T-clips may require light pressure in the center.

    • If the clip breaks inside the panel, do not try to remove it with your fingers - use curved jaw tweezers or wire hook. As a last resort, you can drill out the remains with a drill with a thin drill bit (⌀1.5–2 mm), but this is risky for plastic.

    Check that the clip part number matches your car model|

    Clean the seat from dirt and oil|

    Use a puller, not a screwdriver|

    Do not use excessive force during installation-->

    Common mistakes and how to avoid them

    Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when working with clips. Here are the most common:

    • 🚫 Use of metal tools. A screwdriver or pliers scratch the plastic and break the “legs” of the clips. Always use plastic puller or wrap the metal with electrical tape.
    • 🚫 Use of force during installation. If the clip does not fit easily, you have chosen the wrong size. There is no need to “pound” it with a hammer - this will lead to cracks in the panel.
    • 🚫 Ignoring O-rings. Some clips (for example, for bumpers) have rubber gaskets. If they are not installed, water and dust will enter the interior.

    Critical error: using clips from other brands (for example, Toyota or Hyundai). Even if they are identical in appearance, the plastic composition and geometry may differ, which will lead to rapid wear.

    Another problem - "domino effect"when, when removing one panel, adjacent clips break. To avoid this, dismantle the trim in stages, starting from the edges and gradually moving towards the center. If you hear a cracking sound, stop and check whether you have caught the adjacent latch.

    ⚠️ Attention: In models Nissan Almera N16 And Primera P12 Door trim clips often “stick” to the plastic due to aging of the materials. Treat them before dismantling WD-40 or silicone lubricant, wait 5–10 minutes.

    Where to buy quality clips for Nissan?

    There are several proven options:

    • 🛒 Official dealers Nissan. Here you will get 100% original parts, but the price will be higher than the market (for example, one clip 90460-4M000 costs 150–200 rubles).
    • 🌍 Online spare parts stores. On Exist.ru, Autodoc or Emex you can find both original and high-quality analogues (for example, from Febi or SWAG).
    • 🏬 Local auto parts stores. Look for those that specialize in Japanese cars. Ask for quality certificates for clips - fakes are often sold under the guise OEM.

    Average cost of sets:

    • 💰 Set of 50 universal clips - 800–1,200 rubles.
    • 💰 Original kit for a specific model (20-30 pcs.) - 1,500-2,500 rubles.

    If you buy clips online, pay attention to reviews. For example, in the set "50 clips for Nissan/Qashqai" Often you come across fasteners from an unknown brand with mismatched sizes. It’s better to overpay for a trusted manufacturer than to waste time ordering again.

    💡

    Before buying a set of clips, take a photo of the old clips with a ruler next to them - this will help the seller select exact analogues if the originals are not available.

    How to extend the life of clips?

    Clips are a consumable item, but if handled correctly they will last longer. Follow these tips:

    • 🔧 Lubricate the clips before installation. Use silicone grease (not to be confused with WD-40!). This will make it easier to dismantle in the future and protect the plastic from cracking.
    • 🌡️ Avoid extreme temperatures. In cold weather, the clips become fragile. If you need to remove the trim in winter, warm up the interior to +10°C or use a hair dryer (keep at a distance of 30 cm!).
    • 🚿 Wash the clips when cleaning the interior. Dust and sand act as an abrasive, erasing the “legs” of the clamps. Wipe them with a damp cloth every six months.

    In models Nissan Murano Z51 And Pathfinder R52 Trunk trim clips often suffer from moisture. To prevent corrosion of metal cores (if any), treat them anti-corrosion spray (For example, Liqui Moly MoS2).

    If you frequently remove trim (for example, for tuning or repairs), consider installing reusable clips with a metal spring. They are more expensive (from 300 rubles per piece), but can withstand up to 50 removal/installation cycles without loss of properties.

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    Original Nissan clips last 3-5 times longer than analogues due to a special plastic composition that is resistant to UV radiation and temperature changes.

    Frequently asked questions about Nissan clips

    Can clips from other brands (eg Toyota) be used in Nissan?

    Theoretically, it is possible if the dimensions and material match. However, in practice this is fraught with problems: clips Toyota often have a softer plastic that deforms at low temperatures. In addition, in Nissan Unique claw shapes are used for better fixation. If it is not possible to buy the original, choose analogues from Febi or Hella — they are tested for compatibility.

    How to get a broken clip out of the panel if it fell inside the door?

    The methods depend on the model:

    1. B Nissan Qashqai J10/J11 You can remove the lower part of the door trim (held on by 3 clips and 2 screws) and remove the fallen retainer by hand.
    2. B X-Trail T31/T32 will have to use flexible magnet or endoscope with a hook.
    3. If the clip is stuck in the hole, carefully drill it with a drill (⌀2 mm) and shake out the residue.
    Do not try to get it through the gap with tweezers - this will damage the seals!

    How many clips are typically required to replace a front bumper?

    The quantity depends on the model:

    • Nissan Juke — 8–10 clips + 4 bolts.
    • Nissan Qashqai J11 — 12 clips (6 on top, 4 on sides, 2 on bottom).
    • Nissan Patrol Y62 — up to 16 clips (including fender liner fastenings).

    Always take 2-3 more clips than you need in case of damage during installation.

    Why don't the new clips hold the panel?

    The reasons may be as follows:

    • 🔹 Wrong size - even a difference of 0.5 mm leads to poor fixation.
    • 🔹 Worn seat in the panel (drilled or deformed).
    • 🔹 The clips are installed at an angle - they must fit strictly perpendicular surfaces.
    • 🔹 Material defect - check for microcracks on the clip (especially analogues).

    If the problem is in the footprint, you can use repair bushings (article 90460-5M000 for many models Nissan).

    Is it possible to repair a broken clip?

    Temporary repairs are possible, but not for long:

    • 🔹 Suitable for flat pistons epoxy resin or cold welding (For example, Poxipol).
    • 🔹 T-shaped clips can be strengthened by inserting them inside piece of aluminum wire (⌀1–1.5 mm).
    • 🔹 If the “foot” is broken, it can be replaced with a piece plastic tieby melting the end with a lighter.
    ⚠️ Attention: Such “repairs” last from several days to a month. To be on the safe side, always install new clips!