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Rivet clips vs scrivets: what is the difference?

3 min read · Clip types explained

Push pin rivet clips and scrivets do the same job: they hold a plastic panel to the body. They look alike from the outside, which is why people often order the wrong one. The difference is in the centre.

Rivet clips: a push pin

A rivet clip has an outer body and a centre pin. You push the body into the hole, then push the pin down flush. The pin spreads the legs behind the panel. To remove it, you lift the pin first. They are quick to fit by hand and very common on bumper covers, radiator covers and under-trays. See rivet clips.

Scrivets: a screw centre

"Scrivet" comes from screw rivet. The centre is a screw (or a ribbed pin) that you turn or press to expand the body. To remove it, you undo the screw a few turns. Because they can be undone without damage, scrivets are often used on panels that come off for servicing, like wheel arch liners and engine covers. See scrivet clips.

How to tell which one you have

• A cross or slot in the centre: a scrivet.
• A smooth or domed centre that sits flush: a push pin rivet clip.
• No separate centre at all, with ribs on the stem: a Christmas tree clip.

Can I swap one for the other?

Sometimes, if the stem width, length and head size match. But the panel was designed for the clip it came with, so the closest match to the original is the safest choice. Measure first: how to measure a car clip.

Which is stronger?

Neither is stronger as a rule; it depends on the clip. Fit matters more than type. A clip with the right stem and length holds well; a loose one does not.

Working on a bumper or arch liner? Read bumper, wheel arch liner and splash shield clips.

Side-by-side comparison

Can I swap one for the other?

Often yes, if the stem fits the same hole and the length suits the panels. A scrivet can be a good upgrade where push pins keep falling out, because the screw centre can be done up firmly. Check that the screw head will not rub on anything behind the panel.

Scrivet clips: sizes in our range

We measured the scrivet clips in our own range from the marks on each product photo. Of 21 products with sizes, the stem (which roughly matches the hole size) runs from about 5 mm to 11.5 mm. The most common stem sizes, rounded, are 8 mm, 6 mm, 7 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

Is a scrivet stronger than a rivet clip?

It depends on the clip, not the type. A scrivet can be tightened more evenly, but both types come in light and heavy styles.

Why are there so many rivet clip sizes?

Each maker uses different hole sizes, panel thicknesses and head sizes. That is why we list the head, stem and length for each product.

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