Tips for removing tight/stubborn Toyota connectors?

Hey folks,
Does anyone have any tips for removing some tight factory Toyota connectors? I am trying to separate the DRL connector at the drivers side headlight. I lifted the retaining tab but it still won't budge. I don't want to put tools on it and mess it up.

Thanks in advance!

Brett

 

Well I'd say the solution has to do with why the connector isn't releasing normally. Electronics cleaner can help clean out a dirty and caked connector. If it's related to something else however, my suggestion would change.

 

Thanks. I can't imagine why it would be dirty or not releasing normally. This is a 2022 with only 3k miles on it.

 

In that case it may just be a tight tolerance clip. In general with clips you should press the release tab, press the two connectors together (so that the release can full disengage), then pull them apart. As you know using any tool will likely break or damage the clip, just not worth it in the long run.

 

Thanks. It looks like the clip pulls up on this one. Are you saying to push the connectors in after releasing the clip?

 

Correct, it's a bit backwards to what you think but when you push them together while pressing the release, it allows the release part fully disengage since it's having issues.

 

Sometimes they just need a little wiggle

 

Connector wasn't stuck. I was. It was a push down vs. a pull up. Thanks fellas.

 

We've all been there, good thing you didn't force it and break it!

 

If you are struggling with a connector in a tight spot, I recommend finding a similar one in an easy location to practice on.