How to Remove an E Clip: 3 Best Methods

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The best ways to remove an E-clip

Reviewed by Jason Shackelford

Last Updated: May 2, 2025 References

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Using an E-Clip Remover

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Removing an E-Clip with Pliers

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Using a Flathead Screwdriver

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Tips

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Warnings

E-clips are a type of tool used for projects including car engines and locking mechanisms. They resemble an "E" shape, and they have 1 side with an opening. E-clips are large retaining rings, and retaining rings hold parts onto a shaft when installed into a groove. To remove an E-clip, use either a remover tool, needle-nose pliers, or a small, flathead screwdriver. Grasp the E-clip with your tool and push it upwards using moderate pressure. You can easily remove E-clips with another household tool.

A Guide to E-Clip Removal

Align an E-clip remover with the edge of the E-clip, and push upward, applying steady pressure, to remove it.
Or, move the middle of the E-clip toward the side and grasp it with pliers, pulling it toward you with moderate pressure.
Alternatively, align a flathead screwdriver with one of the small grooves and push up with moderate pressure.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using an E-Clip Remover

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1
Align your remover tool with the edge of the E-clip. Most E-clip removers have a smooth, curved edge. Line up the curved edge on your tool with the curve of the E-clip, and place your tool just below the E-clip.^{[1]
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- There are several different types of E-clip removers, and you can use them all in a similar way.
2
Push upwards and apply steady, moderate pressure. Once your tool is aligned with the E-clip, simply press up on the tool to remove it from its position.^{[2]
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- Be careful not to use too much pressure, or the E-clip may go flying!
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3
Store your E-clip in a dry location until you use it next. Place your E-clip in a storage jar, bin, or container. You can easily use them again and again for other projects involving tools.
- You can store these in your shop or in a tool box, for instance.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Removing an E-Clip with Pliers

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To easily remove the E-clip, you want the curved side of the E-clip facing you. If necessary, use your fingers or a pair of needle-nose pliers to twist it around. The E-clip should slide easily with moderate pressure.
2
Grab the center of the E-clip with needle-nose pliers. Pinch the middle of your E-clip with the tip of your needle-nose pliers. Hold the pliers securely so you can remove the clip.
- Needle-nose pliers work the best to easily remove the E-clips. However, you can use other types of pliers as well, like slip-joint pliers or locking pliers.
3
Pull the E-clip toward you with moderate pressure. While grasping the E-clip, pull back on your pliers to take the clip out of its position.
- If you are having trouble gripping the E-clip, adjust your pliers so the tip is closer to the middle.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using a Flathead Screwdriver

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1
Align the screwdriver with 1 of the small grooves in the middle. Place the tip of your screwdriver inside the groove on the clip. Each E-clip has 2 small grooves in the middle, 1 for the left side and 1 for the right side. You can use either groove to help remove the E-clip.^{[3]
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- For best results, use a screwdriver that is proportionate to the size of the E-clip.
2
Place your finger directly next to the E-clip to catch it when it moves. Hold your index finger of your non-dominant hand up to the E-clip along the top edge.^{[4]
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- This way, you can prevent the E-clip from flying far away when you remove it.
3
Push up on the screwdriver with moderate pressure. Hold your screwdriver with your dominant hand, and push the tool upwards consistently. ^{[5]
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- The E-clip should easily come out. If it doesn’t, apply a bit more pressure.

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Tips

E-clips come in various sizes, from ¹⁄₁₆ in (0.16 cm) to ⁷⁄₈ in (2.2 cm).

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E-clips are commonly used in repair and maintenance shops.

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You can choose from black or silver E-clips.

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