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Christmas tree clips: where they are used and how to fit them

3 min read · Clip types explained

Christmas tree clips get their name from the ribbed, cone-shaped stem. The ribs grip the edge of the hole, so there is no separate pin. They are one of the most common clips inside a car.

Where they are used

• Door cards and kick panels
• Boot linings, parcel shelves and side trims
• Bonnet insulation and firewall pads
• Wiring looms and hoses (some have a tie or holder on the head)

Choosing the right one

Stem width should suit the hole so the ribs can grip. Stem length must reach through the trim, any backing board and the body. Head size matters on soft materials: wide heads stop insulation and lining pulling over the clip. Colour only matters where the head is on show. Our range: Christmas tree clips. For wide-head retainers, see trim retainer clips.

Removing tree clips

Use a forked trim tool. Slide it under the head as close to the stem as you can and lift straight up. On a long panel, lift each clip part way first, then go round again. Pulling one corner hard tends to snap the stems or crack the panel. More in how to remove car trim clips.

Fitting new ones

Push the clip through the trim first if that is how the old one sat, then line the clips up with the holes and press over each clip with the flat of your hand. The head should sit flat. If a clip goes in too easily and the panel is loose, the stem is too thin for the hole.

Door cards

Door cards often use tree clips along with push-in trim clips and a few screws. Our guide refitting a door trim panel goes through the whole job.

Types you will see

• Plain tree clips: a ribbed stem with a round head, used for linings and insulation.
• Tree clips with a sealing washer: a foam or rubber disc under the head keeps water out of door cards.
• Double-ended or wiring tree clips: hold a loom or a hose off the body.

Why they lose grip

Each time a tree clip is pulled out, the ribs bend a little. After a few removals the clip spins or pulls out with the panel. If a panel rattles after refitting, worn tree clips are a common cause.

Fitting tips

1. Line the clip up with the hole before pressing. Pushing at an angle snaps the stem.
2. Press firmly at the clip, not in the middle of the panel.
3. If a clip has a sealing washer, make sure it sits flat.

Christmas tree clips: sizes in our range

We measured the christmas tree clips in our own range from the marks on each product photo. Of 27 products with sizes, the stem (which roughly matches the hole size) runs from about 6 mm to 11 mm. The most common stem sizes, rounded, are 8 mm, 7 mm, 9 mm. Here is a spread across the range:

Sizes are approximate, read from the measurement marks on our product photos. Always compare with your original part.

Frequently asked questions

Are Christmas tree clips the same as fir tree clips?

Yes. Both names describe the ribbed, tapered stem.

Can I reuse tree clips?

If the ribs are not flattened and the clip still grips firmly, yes. Many people replace them whenever a door card comes off.

Sizes and fitting steps in our guides are general. Check your vehicle's manual for anything specific to your car. Questions? Call 0499 001004.