how to remove window crank handle

[zea3]

The exterior door handle on my son's 01 Corolla has snapped off. I have a new replacement part, but in order to remove the old and install the new I have to remove the interior door panel. To remove the door panel I need to remove the crank handle for the window. Allegedly there is a retaining clip between the crank handle and the door panel that I can bend with a screw driver and the handle pulls straight off. After much searching and swearing, I have not found said retaining clip.

Any ideas how to remove the window crank handle without damaging the car?

 

[DBfan187]

I bought that tool for about $6 @ Autozone.

 

[zea3]

Thanks! I'll give that a shot.

 

[Richard320]

Be aware that the clip is spring steel. When you get it to spread and push out, it may fly away. So do the job on the driveway, not the lawn. The clip is shaped like the Greek Omega Ω. That tool catches the ears and pushes things out. The tool is usually sold at a decent auto parts store for a couple bucks. If the handle's been off before, it may have been installed 180° off, so try pushing from both directions.

 

[Flotsam]

I used to use a small pair of needle-nose pliers. A lot of times it was hit-or-miss but it eventually worked.

It seemed that my motorcycles had those blasted clips everywhere!! :grrrr:

 

[257WbyMag]

This is just another example of why this is the greatest forum evah!