How to Remove Pins from Automotive Wiring Harness Connectors?

[SpencerRose]

From the right side, use a flathead screwdriver to insert and pry off the small light, then pull the wiring harness over with thin wire. After removing the panel, there are two screws; unscrew them and then take off the panel. The entire panel reveals the black sponge, which is the original position of the wiring harness; remove it to proceed.

[JoshuaAnn]

Last time I helped a friend fix their car, I studied this - the key to removing pins from automotive wiring harness connectors lies in the locking mechanism. First, locate the corresponding release mechanism on the connector, usually hidden on the side or back. Insert a specialized pin removal tool or a flattened paperclip into the locking hole until you feel a 'click', indicating the spring clip has been released. Then gently pull the wire to extract the terminal. If unsure, practice on a discarded connector first - pulling too hard may crack the plastic slot. German cars with blue locking tabs are trickier; you need to pry open the lock tab before pushing the terminal with a tool. A right-angle pin removal plier is recommended for easier operation. Always remember to disconnect the battery negative terminal before working - short circuits that fry the ECU would be disastrous.

[SaraMarie]

I've removed dozens of pins when installing aftermarket audio systems myself. First check if there are small holes on the side of the connector - most designs require tools to be inserted vertically to depress the spring tabs. Without professional tools, you can use sewing needles or syringe needles, but pay attention to the angle - don't apply too much force after the needle tip presses against the barbed spring tab of the metal terminal, otherwise the deformed tab won't lock securely. Japanese cars often have terminals with dual spring tabs that require simultaneous pressure on both sides. Use your phone's flashlight during operation - some black connectors have locking holes that are nearly impossible to see. Remember the color sequence of each wire; inserting them into wrong holes during reassembly may trigger fault codes. For connectors with waterproof rubber seals, remove the seal before extracting the pin.

[TravisMarie]

Medical hemostats can also work! Grip the base of the wire and gently twist it left and right while using your other hand to push the clip. In fact, 4S shops often use homemade tools: grind a screwdriver to a 1mm thin edge, then insert it diagonally into the connector gap to lift the spring tab. The key is not to pull hard; you'll know the spring tab is released when you hear a 'click' sound. European-style connectors have two sizes of terminals, and a T-shaped terminal removal tool provides better leverage for larger ones. After removal, check the metal pins for oxidation—apply some conductive grease if needed to prevent poor contact. Beginners are advised to buy a terminal removal kit on Taobao; a twenty-yuan set comes with over a dozen different heads.