I don't have any magic to offer on the clips. Stop by the dealer and get extras if you can. I broke about half, trying to be real gentle. I think there are 15-20 all together. They are plastic and have aged to the point of being real brittle.

OK, one hint - spray something like WD40 on it (front and back) while you are trying to pry the center pin, once the lube gets in there, it will be much easier to move it and you are less likely to rip the plastic cap off. Did the same thing for reassembly - you need to use a little lube to be able to push the center pin down with a hand tool or your fingers.

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David.X5
2001 X5 4.4i Sport
SOLD! at 160k miles