Plastic rivets are an indispensable fastening element in modern car repair, which allows you to quickly and reliably fix the interior trim, bumpers, fender liners and other plastic body parts. Unlike metal analogues, they do not rust, do not damage paintwork and provide a tight connection without the risk of corrosion. But how to choose them correctly for a specific task? And is it possible to install them yourself without experience?
Many car owners are faced with a problem: the original rivets on the car break when parts are dismantled, and stores offer dozens of options - from universal to specialized for specific brands. In this article we will analyze all types of plastic rivets, their pros and cons, and also give step-by-step installation instructions with photos and videos. We will pay special attention common mistakes, due to which the mount may last only a few months instead of several years.
If you are planning to repair a bumper, replace fender liners or restore door trim, you cannot do without high-quality rivets. But not everyone knows that, for example, for Toyota Corolla 2018 and Volkswagen Polo 2015 may require different types of fasteners, even if visually they look the same. Next is a detailed guide with practical advice from body repair specialists.
1. Why are plastic rivets needed in a car?
Plastic rivets (aka clips, pistons or clamps) perform three key functions:
- They attach plastic and rubber parts to a metal body without damaging the paintwork.
- Ensure the tightness of the connection, preventing moisture and dirt from entering under the casing.
- Absorb vibrations, preventing the panel from rattling when moving.
Without them it is impossible to reliably record:
- 🚗 Bumpers and their covers
- 🚪 Door and threshold trim
- 🛡️Fenders and mudguards
- 🔧 Decorative overlays on racks and arches
For example, in Hyundai Solaris only on the front bumper used up to 12–15 rivets different types! At the same time, original parts from the manufacturer often cost 3–5 times more than their universal counterparts, but do not always justify the price.
Important: Metal rivets or screws are not suitable here - they rust, damage the paint and can become a source of corrosion. Plastic ones can withstand temperature changes from -40°C up to +80°C and last for decades.
2. Types of plastic rivets: how not to make a mistake with your choice
All plastic rivets are divided into 4 main types according to the principle of fixation. Each is suitable for its own tasks:
2.1. Herringbone snap rivets
The most common type - used for attaching bumpers, fender liners and trim. They are fixed using flexible “legs” that straighten after installation. Suitable for holes diameter 6–10 mm.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy installation (no special tools needed)
- ✅ Withstands loads up to
15–20 kgfor one rivet - ✅ Can be dismantled and reused (2-3 times)
Cons:
- ❌ Over time, the “paws” lose elasticity (especially in cold weather)
- ❌ Not suitable for thin metal (less than
0.8 mm)
2.2. Threaded rivets (screw)
Used for parts that need to be removed frequently (for example, trunk trim). They have an internal thread for a self-tapping screw or bolt. Hole diameter: 8–12 mm.
Where used:
- 🔧 Attaching aprons under the hood
- 🚗 Fixing decorative radiator grilles
- 🛠️ Removable panels in the interior (for example, in Kia Rio)
Critical Feature: When installing, be sure to use sealing washer, otherwise over time the thread will become loose from vibrations.
2.3. Butterfly rivets (double-sided)
Ideal for attaching thin plastic panels (eg headliners or doors). When installed, the “wings” open from the reverse side, securely fixing the part.
Benefits:
- 🦋 Suitable for holes
4–8 mm - 🔄 Can be removed and installed up to
5–7 timeswithout loss of properties - 🛡️ Does not damage paintwork during dismantling
Disadvantages:
- ⚠️ Cannot withstand heavy loads (maximum
5–7 kg) - ❄️ Plastic becomes brittle in the cold
2.4. Rivets with expansion dowel
They are used for fastening heavy parts (for example, bumpers of SUVs or kangaroo guards). They are installed in a pre-drilled hole and fixed using an expansion mechanism.
Specifications:
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hole diameter | 10–14 mm |
| Maximum load | up to 50 kg |
| Material | Polyamide or polypropylene |
| Temperature range | from -50°C up to +120°C |
Used in Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and other pickups/SUVs.
For a passenger car bumper, herringbone rivets are sufficient, but for an SUV or a car bumper, you need a spacer dowel with a load of 30 kg or more.
3. How to choose rivets for a specific car model
A mistake many car owners make is buying “universal” rivets without taking into account the features of the body. Here 3 criteriaThings to check before purchasing:
1. Hole diameter and shape
Measure the stock hole with a caliper or ruler. For example:
- For Renault Duster - usually
8 mm("herringbone") - For Volkswagen Passat B6 —
10 mm(threaded) - For Lada Vesta —
6 mm(butterflies)
2. Body metal thickness
If the metal is thinner 0.8 mm, rivets with a snap may not hold - you need an expansion dowel or a rivet with an enlarged “head”.
3. Part material
For hard plastic (bumper) any rivet is suitable, but for soft plastic (door trim) you need “butterflies” or screw options.
⚠️ Attention! B BMW 3 Series (E90) and Audi A4 (B8) rivets are often used special head shape (for example, with slots for a screwdriver). Universal analogues may not be suitable!
If you are not sure about the choice, take an old rivet or a photograph of the fastening with you to the store. Consultants in Autodoc, Exist or Emmegi will help you choose the exact analogue from the catalog.
How to measure the diameter of a hole without a caliper?
Take a thin wire, wrap it around the hole, then apply it to the ruler and divide the length by 3.14 (Pi). For example, if the wire length is 25 mm, the diameter is ≈ 8 mm.
4. Tools for installing plastic rivets
For installation you will need a minimum set of tools:
- 🔨 Plastic or rubber mallet (so as not to damage the part)
- 🔧 Flat blade screwdriver (for rivets with grooves)
- 🔩 Rivet remover (if you need to dismantle old ones)
- 📏 Caliper or ruler (for measuring holes)
- 🔥 Hairdryer (to soften plastic in cold weather)
For professional installation, technicians use pneumatic rivet gun (costs from 5 000 ₽), but for a one-time repair, a hand tool is sufficient.
Advice: If the rivet does not fit into the hole, do not hit it with a hammer! It is better to widen the hole with a drill 0.5–1 mm or heat the rivet with a hairdryer (the plastic will become softer).
⚠️ Attention! When installing rivets in aluminum body (for example, Jaguar XE or Audi A8) Do not use a metal hammer - only a plastic or rubber one, otherwise you will damage the anti-corrosion coating.
☑️ Preparation for installing rivets
5. Step-by-step instructions for installing plastic rivets
Let's look at the process using the example of replacing rivets on the front bumper Skoda Octavia A7. Likewise suitable for most passenger cars.
Step 1. Removing the old rivet
If the rivet is broken, it must be carefully removed. To do this:
- Pry up the center of the rivet with a screwdriver.
- Pull it towards you - usually the “paws” come out without any problems.
- If that doesn't work, use rivet remover (worth ~
300 ₽).
Step 2: Clean the hole
Remove dirt and rust from the hole using WD-40 or alcohol. If the hole is deformed, carefully widen it with a drill.
Step 3: Installing a New Rivet
Insert the rivet into the hole and press until it clicks. For a herringbone pattern, manual effort is sufficient; for expansion dowels, a mallet may be needed.
Step 4: Check Commitment
Pull the part towards you - if the rivet does not come out, the installation was successful. If it doesn't hold well, try a larger diameter rivet or use sealant. Loctite 406 for additional fixation.
⚠️ Attention! When installing rivets on plastic bumper Do not overtighten them - this may lead to cracks! Optimal force: the rivet should fit tightly, but without deforming the plastic.
If the rivet does not lock, try lubricating it with soapy water - this will make installation easier and prevent squeaking.
6. TOP 5 mistakes when working with plastic rivets
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to rapid failure of fasteners. Here are the most common:
- Wrong diameter - if the rivet is smaller than the hole, it will dangle; if more, it will break during installation.
- Ignoring temperature — in cold weather the plastic becomes brittle, and in hot weather it becomes too soft. Optimal temperature for installation:
+10°C…+25°C. - No hole cleaning - Dirt and rust prevent a tight fit.
- Using a metal hammer - this deforms the rivet and damages the paintwork.
- Reusing Old Rivets - even if they look intact, the “legs” lose their elasticity after the first dismantling.
For example, in Nissan Qashqai Frequently, fender liner rivets break precisely because owners try to reuse them after washing.
How to avoid mistakes?
- 📏 Always check with spare parts catalog for your model.
- 🌡️ In cold weather, heat the rivets with a hairdryer (but do not overheat - the plastic may melt!).
- 🧴Use silicone grease to make installation easier.
If the rivet does not fix the first time, do not try to hammer it in harder - it is better to replace it with a new one. Repeated installation reduces reliability by 40–50%.
7. Where can I buy quality plastic rivets?
The quality of the rivets directly affects the durability of the fastening. Here are the tested options:
7.1. Original rivets (OEM)
Sold at dealerships or Exist.ru. Pros: fits perfectly, durable. Cons: the price is 2-3 times higher than analogues.
Examples:
- Toyota - art.
90467-08038(bumper rivet) - Volkswagen - art.
N 908 132 01(trim clip)
7.2. Universal analogues
Brands Hella, Febi, SWAG offer rivets for 90% of cars. The price is 30–50% lower than the original, the quality is comparable.
Where to buy:
- 🛒 Autodoc — large assortment, there are reviews
- 🛒 Emmegi — professional fastening systems
- 🛒 AliExpress - cheap options (but the risk of running into defects)
⚠️ Attention! On AliExpress They often sell rivets made from recycled plastic that crumble when installed. Check the seller's reviews and ratings!
Advice: Buy sets with a reserve - for example, Hella 8HG 351 373-121 (100 pieces of different sizes) for 800–1 000 ₽. It's cheaper than buying more individually.
8. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I use metal rivets instead of plastic ones?
No, this will lead to body corrosion and damage to the paintwork. Metal rivets are used only in the power frame of a car (for example, for fastening subframes), but not for plastic parts.
How to remove a broken rivet if its center has broken off?
Use rivet remover or drill out the remains with a drill on 1–2 mm less than the hole diameter. Then clean the hole and install a new rivet.
How many rivets are needed to attach the front bumper?
On average 8–12 pieces (depending on the model). For example, in Ford Focus 3 10 rivets are used: 6 on the sides and 4 in the center.
Can plastic rivets be painted?
Yes, but only with special paint for plastic (for example, Motip Dupli-Color). Regular car enamel does not adhere to polypropylene.
What to do if the rivet does not stay in the aluminum body?
Use rivets with threaded dowel or apply to thread thread locker (for example, Loctite 243). Aluminum is softer than steel, so additional fixation is needed.