reattaching plastic panels

[lazytiger]

I took off the rear passenger-side plastic panel to get at some minor body damage in the wheel well. It was attached with several plastic clips. How do you get the darn thing back on?! The clips go in opposite directions and seem to all require being reattached simultaneously. I tried to pull the plastic clips out of the body to attach them to the piece first, but they really don't want to come out and I don't want to damage them.Anybody have any pointers? It's a 2003 Vibe, if that makes a difference, and I have the unpainted plastic panels.Thanks,Jeff

[ragingfish]

You actually have to pull the retainer clips from the body, attach them to the panel, then push the panel back into place. It's the only way I was ever able to get the stinkin things back on.My advice for removal, get a pair of locking forceps or very narrow needle-nose pliers, and use a flat-head screwdriver to gently life one side of the clip. Then use the forceps/pliers to grab ahold and yank it out.

[lazytiger]

Thanks, I'll give it another shot. I was hesitant to pull any harder on those clips, but there doesn't seem to be any other way.Jeff