Trunk trim Ε koda Yeti - this is not just a decorative element, but a functional part of the interior that hides fasteners, wiring and body elements. Its dismantling may be necessary to install additional sound insulation, repair after an accident, replace lighting bulbs or lay cables for a multimedia system. However, the wrong approach can lead to breakage of the clips, damage to the plastic, or breakage of the backlight wires.
In this article we will analyze the process of removing the casing on all generations of Yeti (including restyled versions 2013β2017), we point out hidden fastenings, which are not written about in standard manuals, and we will give recommendations on the safety of parts. We will pay special attention to the nuances for cars with trunk control panels (button to open the rear door from the passenger compartment) and options with electric sunroof.
Preparation: Tools and Precautions
Before you begin disassembling, make sure you have everything you need. The absence of even one tool can lead to improvisation with sad consequences - for example, an attempt to pry a clip with a screwdriver instead of a plastic puller almost always ends in a broken retainer.
Here minimum setwhich will be required:
- π§ Plastic pullers (or guitar picks) - 2β3 pcs. for careful prying of clips.
- βοΈ 10 mm socket wrench or socket β for bolts securing the rear seat back (if its removal is required).
- π¦ Flashlight or head light β lighting helps to see hidden latches.
- π¦ Container for fasteners β clips and bolts are easily lost in the cabin.
- 𧲠Magnet on telescopic handle - to remove fasteners that have fallen into a niche.
β οΈ Attention: If your Yeti equipped electric rear door, before removing the casing, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery! The sunroof control wires pass just under the casing, and an accidental short circuit can damage the control unit.
Also prepare your workspace:
- π Park the car on a level surface and apply the handbrake.
- π§Ή Remove all items from the trunk - even small items can interfere with access to the mounts.
- π If you plan to do electrical work (for example, changing a lamp), remove the battery terminal 10-15 minutes before starting to avoid a short circuit.
- Until 2013 (pre-facelift)
- 2013β2017 (restyle)
- I don't know
- Other
Removing the rear seat back (if necessary)
On most Yeti The trunk trim is attached independently of the rear seat, but in some cases (for example, to access wiring or replace seals), the backrest must be removed. This is also true for cars with system VarioFlex (sliding seats), where the fastenings are integrated into the trim.
Dismantling algorithm:
- Open the trunk and find two 10mm socket head bolts at the bottom of the backrest (located on the sides, closer to the wheel arches).
- Unscrew the bolts, but do not remove them completely - they hold the hinges.
- Lift the backrest up until it stops, then pull it towards you to release it from the latches.
- If the seat is equipped with seat belts, remove them from the body (you will need a 17mm wrench for the mounting bolts).
β οΈ Attention: On models with VarioFlex After removing the backrest, the guide rails may remain open. Do not place heavy objects on them - this will deform the seat sliding mechanism!
If you do not need to remove the entire seat, you can limit yourself to tilting the backrest forward. To do this:
- Locate the levers under the headrests (one on each side).
- Pull the levers up and tilt the backrest forward.
If the backrest is jammed and does not recline, check whether the seat belts are caught in the mechanism. Often it is enough to lift the seat up slightly to release the latch.
Removing the trunk trim: step-by-step process
Now let's move on to the main part - removing the casing. On Ε koda Yeti it is secured with a combination of plastic clips, bolts and latches. The main difficulty is invisible fasteners, which are easy to break if you pull the casing by force. We will analyze the process for standard equipment and indicate the differences for machines with electric sunroof.
Step 1. Removing the plastic sill trims
- πͺ Start with the trunk sills - there are 2-3 hidden clips that hold the trim on the sides.
- π Use a puller to pry the trim at the wheel arch and pull it up. The clips should come out with a characteristic click.
- β οΈ Do not pull the trim sharply - it is connected to the door seal, which can be torn.
Step 2. Freeing the top of the skin
- π‘ If there is a courtesy light in the trunk, carefully pry it off with a puller (it is secured with latches). Disconnect the power connector.
- π In the upper part of the casing (under the lampshade) there is usually a 10 mm socket wrench bolt hidden - unscrew it.
- π Find plastic caps on the sides of the casing (usually 2-3 pieces on each side). Pry them off with a puller.
Step 3: Removing the Main Panel
- π Now the skin is held in place only by the lower clips. Start at one of the corners (for example, the driver's side) and gently pull the panel towards you.
- π You will hear a series of clicks - these are the clips coming out. If the casing does not give way, check that you have released all the fasteners.
- π For cars with electric sunroof: Before completely removing the trim, disconnect the wiring connector (it is located on the right side of the hatch spring).
βοΈ Checklist before removing the casing
| Fastening element | Quantity | Removal tool | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic clips (pistons) | 8β10 pcs. | Plastic puller | On restyled models, the clips may be black (more durable) |
| M6 bolts | 1β2 pcs. | Socket wrench 10 mm | One bolt is usually hidden under the lampshade |
| Threshold latches | 4 pcs. | Flathead screwdriver (careful!) | On models with VarioFlex latches can be metal |
| Wiring connector | 1 piece | Hands (release the latch) | Only for vehicles with a power sunroof or push button release |
Nuances for different configurations Skoda Yeti
The design of the trunk lining may vary depending on the year of manufacture and vehicle equipment. Here are the key features to consider:
1. Models before 2013 (pre-restayl):
- π§ Trim clips are more fragile - use pullers with rounded edgesso as not to damage the plastic.
- π‘ The lighting lamp is secured with two latches (instead of one on restyled versions).
- π There is no bolt under the lampshade - the casing is held in place only by clips and pistons around the perimeter.
2. Models 2013β2017 (restyle):
- π© Added a mounting bolt under the lampshade (T20 Torx or 10 mm socket).
- π The wiring for the trunk opening button from the passenger compartment runs on the right - do not pull the trim sharply, so as not to tear off the connector.
- π¦ The clips are stronger, but more difficult to remove - may require special puller for VW Group piston (article
T10061).
3. Machines with VarioFlex:
- πͺ The trim is integrated with the seat rails - be sure to lock the seats in the rearmost position before removing.
- π§ Additional bolts for fastening the casing to the guides (2 pcs., 10 mm head).
- β οΈ When dismantling, do not lose plastic bushings guides - they often fall out.
What to do if the clip breaks?
If the clip cracks or remains in the body when removing the trim, do not try to pull it out by force. Use needle nose pliers or a wire hook. Universal clips are suitable for replacement. VW Group (for example, N 908 132 01 for thresholds or 1J0 868 653 for the main panel).
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when disassembling the trunk trim. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:
1. Broken clips
This is the most common problem. Clips break if:
- π§ Use metal tools (screwdrivers, knives) instead of plastic pullers.
- πͺ Pull the casing by force without releasing all the fasteners.
- βοΈ Work at low temperatures (plastic becomes brittle).
Solution: warm up the interior to +15Β°C, use special pullers and move the trim smoothly, rocking from side to side.
2. Torn wires
On Yeti with an electric sunroof or a trunk release button, a wiring harness runs under the trim. If you forget to disconnect the connector, you can:
- π Remove the contacts from the control board.
- π₯ Cause a short circuit (if the battery terminal is not removed).
Solution: Always check for connectors before removing the panel. If the wiring still comes off, use soldering iron and heat shrink tubing for repair.
3. Lost bolts and clips
Small parts are easily lost in the interior or fall into body niches. To avoid this:
- 𧲠Use the magnet on the telescopic handle to remove any fallen bolts.
- π¦ Place fasteners in a container with partitions (for example, from a children's construction set).
- π Keep records: take a photo of the location of the clips before removing them.
β οΈ Attention: If the trim does not fit tightly after assembly, check to see if there are any foreign objects left inside the body (for example, a forgotten tool or broken clips). This can cause squeaks and vibrations when driving.
On restyled Yeti (2013+), be sure to unscrew the bolt under the lampshade - without this, the trim will not be completely removed, and the clips will be damaged when you try to pull it out.
What to do after removing the casing?
When the casing is finally dismantled, you will have access to:
- π¦ Wiring rear lights, trunk opening sensor, sunroof control button.
- π Soundproofing materials (if they were installed previously).
- π Rear shock absorber mounts (on some modifications).
- π Sunroof electric drive control unit (if there is one).
Depending on the purpose of disassembly, further actions may include:
1. Installation of additional sound insulation
For Yeti often used:
- π¦ Bimast Bomb or STP Izolon for vibration isolation of metal surfaces.
- π Splen 4β8 mm to absorb noise.
- π οΈ Mastic or liquid sound insulation (for example, Noxudol 3100) for processing welds.
Before gluing materials degrease the surface (for example, White spirit) and heat it with a hairdryer for better adhesion.
2. Repair or replacement of wiring
If you find damaged wires:
- π§ Strip and tin the ends before soldering.
- π οΈ Use heat-shrink tubing instead of electrical tape - it provides better protection from moisture.
- π‘ Check the circuit with a multimeter in "continuity" mode.
3. Installation of additional equipment
Popular improvements:
- π¦ LED trunk lighting (can be connected to a standard lamp or a separate switch).
- π 12V or USB socket for recharging devices.
- π‘ Sound amplifier or subwoofer (check the wiring cross-section first!).
If you are installing an LED strip, secure it with double-sided tape 3M VHB β it can withstand temperature changes and vibration. To connect use delay relayso that the backlight goes out smoothly after closing the trunk.
Sheathing assembly: how to avoid squeaks and distortions
Putting the trim back on is often more difficult than removing it. The main task is to ensure a tight fit without creaks or gaps. Here is a step-by-step algorithm:
1. Checking clips and fasteners
- π Inspect all clips for cracks. Replace damaged parts.
- 𧲠Make sure there are no plastic debris left in the body openings.
- π§ If the clips fall out of their sockets, apply a little silicone grease (for example, WD-40 Specialist).
2. Connecting wiring
- π Connect the connectors for the dome lamp and the sunroof button (if any).
- π‘ Check the operation of the trunk light before final assembly.
3. Installation of sheathing
- π Start at the top of the panel, carefully clicking it into place.
- π Press the trim where the clips are located - you should hear clicks.
- π© Tighten the bolts (if any) and install the plastic sill covers.
4. Checking the result
- π Close the trunk and listen - there should be no extraneous sounds.
- π Drive on rough roads to make sure there are no squeaks.
- π¦ Check the operation of all electrical components (lighting, sunroof button).
β οΈ Attention: If, after assembly, the trim βwalksβ or does not fit tightly, check whether the seat guides are warped (relevant for VarioFlex). Sometimes it is enough to slightly tighten the guide bolts.
When installing the trim, press it in the area of the rear lights - there are often unlatched clips there, which then become a source of squeaks.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the trunk trim Skoda Yeti
β How many clips break on average the first time the trim is removed?
With careful work and the use of plastic pullers - 0β1 pcs. However, without experience, you can break 2-3 clips, especially on restyled models, where they fit tighter. Stock up on a set of clips in advance for VW Group (see table above for article numbers).
β Is it possible to remove the trim without removing the rear seat?
Yes, in most cases this is possible. The exception is cars with VarioFlex, where the trim partially overlaps the seat rails. If you don't need access to the wiring under the seat, you can leave it alone.
β How to remove the trim if the clips are stuck?
Stuck clips are a common problem on cars older than 5 years. Solutions:
- π₯ Warm up the clip with a hairdryer (temperature 50β60Β°C), then carefully pry it off with a puller.
- π§ Apply penetrating lubricant (for example, Liqui Moly LM-40) and wait 10β15 minutes.
- β οΈ Don't use WD-40 - it will corrode plastic!
β What should I do if the ceiling light does not work after assembly?
Causes and solutions:
- π Connector not connected β check the connection under the casing.
- π‘ Lamp burned out β replace with an LED analogue (for example,
W5W). - π Fuse problems - check
F37(10A) in the fuse box. - π‘ Broken wiring - test the circuit with a multimeter.
β Where can I buy original trim clips?
Original clips can be ordered by article number:
1J0 868 653- trunk trim clip (universal for VW Group).N 908 132 01β threshold clip.6Q0 868 651β piston for fastening plastic panels.
Analogues: Febi, Meyle or Topran (quality is not inferior to the original, but 30-40% cheaper).