Step 4: Wheelwell Fasteners

By far, this is the hardest step in the process. There are numerous fasteners that need to be removed so that the wheelwell cover can be moved aside in order to remove the single bolt that holds the 2nd part of the elbow to the inside of the right fender.

If you have wheel arch moldings, you have to remove ALL the screws that hold this to the quarter panel. Set it aside.

Here's one type of fastener that need to be removed:

The second type is the type of fastener that has clips that, once inserted, CANNOT be removed from the point of insertion (the outside part you see). You have to pinch the clips from the inside to push it out and remove it. Sorry, no pictures!

Here's the good news:

See the picture above? The wheelwell cover is flexible enough so that you can lift the wheelwell cover up and around this type of fastener. If you are skillful and careful enough, you can remove them all the same way. I believe you have to lift the cover off 4 or so of the fasteners.

Now the next type of fastener is a pain in the ass to remove. The first one you have to remove can be accessed through the hole that is opened by the removal of the airbox elbow. Shine a light down there and you'll see it. Look carefully and you'll see the two clips that secure the fastener in the hole. I removed it by using needlenose pliers and forcing it out. This was a complete pain in the ass, but I got it out w/out destroying the fastener.

You'll see a second fastner of the same type. Remove that by bending back the wheelwell cover. I used a needlenose plier again. I am sure there are only two of this type that I removed.