How to properly remove velvet covers on Lada Kalina 1: instructions with photos and tips

Velvet covers (or door sills) on Lada Kalina the first generation is not only a decorative element, but also protects the body from chips, corrosion and mechanical damage. Over time, they wear out, crack, or require replacement due to damage. However, removing velvet covers is a task that often raises questions among owners: how not to damage the fasteners, leave scratches on the body and not break the clips? In this article we will look at step by step dismantling process, the necessary tools and typical mistakes that beginners make.

Feature Kalina 1 (2004–2013) lies in the design of the velvet fastenings: both plastic clips and self-tapping screws are used here, and in some modifications even double-sided tape. If you are planning replace the pads with new ones or temporarily remove them for anti-corrosion treatment of thresholds, it is important to understand the nuances. For example, clips often break during careless dismantling, and self-tapping screws can rust and “stick” to the body. We'll tell you how to avoid these problems.

What tools are needed to remove marigolds?

Before you begin, prepare a set of tools. Without them, the process may be delayed or result in damage to parts. Here minimum required set:

• 🔧 Plastic puller or mounting blade — for carefully prying off the clips (metal tools can scratch the body).
• 🔩 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) — for unscrewing self-tapping screws (in some configurations, self-tapping screws with a T20 star head are used).
• 🧲 Magnetic holder - so as not to lose small screws or clips during dismantling.
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubricant - if the screws are rusty and cannot be unscrewed.
• 🧤 Gloves — to protect hands from sharp edges of the body and chemicals.

Additionally you may find it useful:

• 📏 Ruler or caliper - to measure the diameter of clips when purchasing new ones.
• 🔥 Construction hair dryer - if the pads are glued with double-sided tape (heating will help remove them without any glue residue).
• 🧴 Glue cleaner - to remove traces of tape from the body.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use a knife or sharp objects to pry up the clips! This almost always leads to damage to both the lining itself and the paintwork of the body. A plastic puller is inexpensive (from 100 rubles), but will save you hundreds on repairing scratches.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove velvet covers on Kalina 1

The dismantling process depends on the type of fastening of your pads. On Lada Kalina first generation there are three options:

1. Clips + screws (the most common option).
2. Clips only (less often, usually on early models).
3. Double-sided tape + clips (found on tuned or restyled versions).

We will consider a universal algorithm that is suitable for most cases. If your Kalina has specific fastenings, check this in FAQ at the end of the article.

Make sure the machine is on a level surface (preferably on a lift or pit)

Clean the trims and sills from dirt (use water and a brush)

Prepare a container for clips and screws (so as not to lose them)

Wear gloves and eye protection (dust and rust can get into your eyes) -->

Step 1: Removing the screws

Start with visible screws. They are usually located:

• 🔹 Along the edges of the overlay (front and back).
• 🔹 In the middle of the threshold (can be hidden under a rubber plug).
• 🔹 Under the door (if the overlay is long).

Carefully unscrew them with a Phillips screwdriver. If the self-tapping screw does not yield:

1. Apply WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
2. Try turning the screwdriver with force, but without jerking.
3. If the head is licked, use extractor for self-tapping screws or drill a self-tapping screw with a drill (2-3 mm drill).

Step 2: Removing the Clips

Clips hold the trim along the entire length of the threshold. To remove them:

1. Insert a plastic puller between the trim and the body at the edge of the sill.
2. Press gently until you hear a click (the clip has come out of the groove).
3. Move along the threshold, repeating the action every 10–15 cm.

The clips on Kalina 1 have a standard diameter of 8–10 mm, but reinforced fasteners (diameter up to 12 mm) can be used in the front and rear of the threshold. If the clip is broken, do not try to pull out its fragments with tweezers - use a wire hook or a special tool to remove the pistons.

Step 3: Removing Double-Sided Tape (If Available)

If the overlay is additionally glued, proceed as follows:

1. Heat the edge of the pad with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C).
2. Pry it with a puller and slowly pull it up, avoiding sudden movements.
3. Remove any remaining adhesive with a cleaner (for example, Autosol Kleberentferner).

⚠️ Attention: Do not use solvents (for example, 646) to remove glue from the body! They will damage the paintwork. Use only specialized vehicles.

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

If the clip breaks off and its body remains in the hole in the body, take a self-tapping screw of a suitable diameter, screw it into the center of the clip and pull it out with pliers. This is usually enough to remove the debris. If it doesn’t help, carefully widen the hole with a drill by 0.5–1 mm and try again.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when removing marigolds. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Using metal tools to pry up clips	Scratches on the body, chipped paint	Use only plastic or wooden pullers
Sharp twitching of the lining when removing	Broken clips, plastic deformation	Move slowly, starting from the edges
Ignoring rusty screws	Broken splines, broken screws	Apply WD-40 10–15 minutes before unscrewing
Removing remaining tape with a knife	Cuts on the body, damage to the paintwork	Use a hair dryer and a specialized cleaner

Another common problem is loss of clips during dismantling. Many owners do not pay attention to the fact that some clips fall out and get lost. As a result, when reinstalled, the trim does not hold tightly, and squeaks appear in the interior. To avoid this, immediately put all the clips in a separate container (for example, a plastic container).

How to prepare thresholds after removing marigolds

When the covers are removed, the real state of the thresholds will be revealed to you. Often hidden under velvet covers:

• 🔹 Corrosion (especially in places where the paint has chipped).
• 🔹 Accumulations of dirt and sand (they retain moisture and accelerate rusting).
• 🔹 Damage from stones (microcracks, dents).

What to do next:

1. Cleaning: Remove dirt with a stiff brush and detergent (e.g. Kärcher RM 539).
2. Anti-corrosion treatment: Apply Movil or Dinitrol on exposed metal areas.
3. Repair of chips: Prime and touch up the damaged areas (use a can of spray paint with the color code for your Viburnum).
4. Protection: If you plan to ride without marigolds, apply a temporary protective film (for example, 3M Scotchgard).

If you find through corrosion, do not delay repairs! Thresholds are a strength element of the body, and their destruction can lead to body deformation in an accident or problems opening doors. In such cases, it is better to contact a bodybuilder for cutting out rust and cooking patches.

Installing velvets back: nuances and tips

If you removed the trims for temporary treatment of thresholds, they need to be installed back. Here are the key points:

1. Check the clips: Inspect them for cracks. If the clip is deformed, replace it (they cost pennies - from 5 rubles apiece).
2. Align the trim: Start at the front edge, then snap the entire length of the clips into place, working toward the back.
3. Tighten the screws: Don't overtighten them! Fix tightly enough to avoid stripping the thread.
4. Check clearances: There should be no gaps between the trim and the body. If there are any, fold the edges of the trim or add weatherstripping.

If you install new velvets, please note:

• 🔹 Material: Original linings are made from ABS plastic, but there are cheap PVC analogues on the market that crack in the cold.
• 🔹 Color: Black overlays are universal, but for Viburnum It is better to order painted parts in body color (the color code is indicated in the vehicle title).
• 🔹 Equipment: In some sets, screws and clips are not included - check with the seller.

⚠️ Attention: When installing chrome-plated or wide tuned velvet covers, it may be necessary threshold trimming (for example, for overlays from Kalina Sport). Without experience, it is better to entrust this to professionals - a mistake will lead to corrosion of the exposed metal.

Where to buy velvet covers and clips for Kalina 1

Door sills for Lada Kalina first generation are sold in several places:

Place of purchase	Pros	Cons	Average price (per set)
Official Lada dealer	Guaranteed original quality, accurate selection by VIN	Expensive, limited range	1 200–1 800 ₽
Online stores (Exist, Autodoc, Kolesa-darom)	Wide selection, prices below dealer prices, customer reviews	Risk of running into a fake, long delivery	600–1 500 ₽
Auto parts markets	You can touch the goods, bargain	High chance of buying non-original, no guarantee	500–1 200 ₽
Used (Avito, Drom)	Cheap, sometimes you get almost new ones	Risk of hidden defects, no return	200–800 ₽

When purchasing, please specify:

• 🔹 Year of manufacture yours Viburnum (Overlays for 2004–2007 and 2008–2013 may differ).
• 🔹 Equipment: Are clips and screws included in the set?
• 🔹 Material: The original is ABS plastic, cheap analogues are PVC.

Articles of original marigolds for Lada Kalina 1:

• 2192-6201010-00 - left pad.
• 2192-6201011-00 - right overlay.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing marigolds on Kalina 1

How many clips does the velvet cover hold on Kalina 1?

Each pad (left and right) is usually equipped with 8–10 clips + 2–4 self-tapping screws. The exact quantity depends on the year of manufacture and configuration. For example, in versions with extended thresholds (for example, Kalina Universal) can be up to 12 clips.

Is it possible to ride without marigolds?

Technically, yes, but it is fraught:

• 🔹 Rapid wear of thresholds from sandblasting and stones.
• 🔹 Corrosion due to moisture getting into microcracks.
• 🔹 Fines from the traffic police (if the thresholds are rusty, this can be regarded as a “malfunction threatening safety”).

If you removed the trims for repairs, try to install them back or temporarily cover the thresholds with a protective film.

How to remove velvet covers if the screws are spinning?

If the self-tapping screw rotates but does not come out:

1. Try using pliers to hold it on the reverse side (if you have access).
2. Use extractor for self-tapping screws (screw it into the slot and pull it out).
3. If all else fails, drill out the self-tapping screw with a 2-3 mm drill and cut a new thread with an M5 tap.

As a last resort, you can carefully cut the trim around the screw and replace it.

How can I replace broken clips?

If the original clips are broken, analogues will do:

• 🔹 Universal clips 8–10 mm (article 608-3703010 for VAZ).
• 🔹 Clips from other VAZ models (for example, from Priors or Grants, but check the diameter).
• 🔹 Self-tapping screws with press washer (if the clips are not critical for rigidity).

Do not use superglue or sealant to fix broken clips - this is a temporary solution that will complicate the next dismantling.

Do I need to remove the velvet covers for anti-corrosion thresholds?

Yes, if you plan full anti-corrosion treatment. Without removing the covers:

• 🔹 You will not be able to properly clean the dirt from the thresholds.
• 🔹 Anticorrosive (for example, Movil) will not fall into hidden cavities.
• 🔹 You won’t see pockets of corrosion under the overlays.

Exception - Handling liquid wax through technological holes (but this is less effective).