The Ultimate 5-Step Guide To Safely Removing Your 2017 Jeep Compass Rear Fold-Down Back Cover Clip (And The Critical Part Number You Need)

As of December 2025, the 2017 Jeep Compass remains a popular compact SUV, and with time comes the need for maintenance, repairs, or upgrades—often requiring access behind the rear seat back's plastic cover. Whether you are trying to fix a rattling noise, replace damaged upholstery, or access the internal latch mechanism, removing the hard plastic back panel can feel like a daunting task, as the clips are designed for a secure, one-time fit. This comprehensive guide provides the exact steps and crucial information, including the essential replacement part number, to ensure you complete the job safely and efficiently.

The fold-down rear seat back cover on the Jeep Compass is secured by a series of friction-fit clips, making the removal process a delicate balance of force and finesse. Unlike older models, the 2017 design relies heavily on modern plastic fasteners that are prone to breaking if the correct technique and specialized tools are not used. Learning the proper detachment points and having the right replacement parts on hand is key to a successful project.

Essential Preparation and Required Tools

Before attempting to detach the rear seat back panel, proper preparation can save you time and prevent costly damage to your interior trim and the underlying seat structure. The goal is to release the hidden friction clips without cracking the plastic cover or snapping the clip receivers.

• The Surprise Vegas Wedding And Shared Grief 5 Shocking Details Of John Schneider And Dee Dee Sorvinos Whirlwind Romance Ohirf

Tools Checklist for Panel Detachment:

• Plastic Trim Removal Tool Kit: This is non-negotiable. Metal tools (like screwdrivers) will scratch and damage the soft plastic trim.
• Small Flat-Head Screwdriver (for prying): Only for very stubborn clips, and used with extreme caution.
• Microfiber Towel or Rag: To wrap the screwdriver tip if you must use it, preventing scratches.
• Safety Glasses: Always recommended when working with spring-loaded or brittle plastic parts.
• Replacement Mopar Seat Clips (Highly Recommended): Clips are often single-use. Having replacements on hand avoids downtime.

The Critical Replacement Part Number

One of the most valuable pieces of information for this procedure is the part number for the seat clips. These clips are designed to secure the panel tightly, and they frequently break or lose their tension upon removal. Having the correct Mopar part ensures a factory-quality reinstallation.

• Mopar Seat Clip Part Number: 68293537AA

This part number is valid for the 2017-2026 Jeep Compass models, confirming its relevance and providing a fresh, current detail for your repair or upholstery replacement project.

Step-by-Step Guide: 5 Stages to Clip Removal

This process focuses specifically on the hard plastic cover on the back of the fold-down rear seat backrest, not the entire seat removal (which involves removing the seat cushion and bolts).

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

Step 1: Clear the Work Area and Fold the Seat

First, ensure the rear cargo area is clear of all items. Fold the specific rear seat back (the 60/40 split allows you to work on one side at a time) completely flat into the cargo area. This provides the best angle of attack for accessing the lower edge of the plastic cover.

• Tip: If you are working on the entire seat back, you may need to remove the rear cargo load floor cover to access any potential attachment bolts, though this is usually only necessary for full seat removal.

Step 2: Locate the Primary Detachment Points

The plastic back panel is secured by friction clips, usually concentrated along the edges—especially the bottom edge and the vertical sides. The method is similar to removing the plastic cover from the front passenger seat back: you must locate the edge and apply controlled, sharp pressure to pop the clips free.

• Start at the bottom edge of the plastic cover, closest to the seat hinge.
• Visually inspect for any small recesses or seams where a trim tool can be inserted.

Step 3: The Controlled Pull Technique

This is the most critical stage. The clips are designed to hold tight, requiring a firm but careful tug to release them. Using a plastic trim removal tool:

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

1. Insert the thin wedge of the plastic pry tool into the seam at the bottom edge of the cover.
2. Gently work the tool until you feel it contact a clip.
3. Apply a sudden, sharp pull (or pry motion) directly away from the seat back. The goal is to release the clip in one decisive motion rather than slowly prying, which can bend or stress the plastic panel.
4. You should hear a distinct "pop" sound as the first clip releases.

Caution: Do not pry too aggressively, especially near the center or top, as the plastic panel is thinnest there and may crack. Focus on releasing the clips sequentially along the bottom and then up the sides.

Step 4: Detaching the Side and Top Clips

Once the bottom edge is free, move your trim tool up the vertical sides of the seat back. The clips are typically spaced every 6–10 inches. Continue the sharp, controlled pulling motion to release each clip. As the panel comes loose, you will gain better visibility of the remaining clip locations.

• The top edge, near the headrest guide tubes, may be secured by a different type of fastener or may simply slide out once the main body of the cover is detached.
• Once all clips are released, the entire plastic cover should lift away from the seat frame, granting you full access to the internal components, such as the rear seat latch mechanism or any wiring for seat heating or sensors.

Step 5: Inspection and Reinstallation (Replacing Broken Clips)

After removal, immediately inspect the removed panel and the seat frame for any broken clips. Any clip still attached to the seat frame must be carefully removed. Any broken clip receivers on the plastic panel itself may require plastic repair or replacement of the panel.

• Reinstallation: Snap new Mopar Seat Clips (Part # 68293537AA) into the plastic cover. Align the panel precisely over the seat frame and use the palm of your hand to firmly press the panel back into place, working from the center outwards. You should hear a solid "click" for each clip that engages, confirming the panel is securely fastened.
• Topical Authority Note: This procedure is often necessary for 2017 Compass seat upholstery replacement or when performing diagnostics on the internal rear seat back latch mechanism, as the panel completely covers these components.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I remove the rear seat back panel without special tools?

A: While technically possible, it is strongly discouraged. Using metal tools like screwdrivers almost guarantees damage to the plastic panel or the seat frame's soft trim. A cheap set of plastic trim removal tools is a worthwhile investment to prevent hundreds of dollars in damage to your rear seat plastic panel detachment area.

Q: Why did my clips break during removal?

A: The clips are typically made of hard nylon or plastic and are designed for a tight, durable fit. They often become brittle over time, especially in vehicles like the 2017 Jeep Compass. Applying slow, steady pressure instead of a quick, sharp pull can also cause the clip to flex and break instead of releasing. This is why having the Mopar Seat Clip 68293537AA ready is crucial.

Q: How do I access the rear seat latch mechanism?

A: Accessing the Jeep Compass rear seat latch access mechanism requires the complete removal of the plastic back cover using the steps outlined above. The latch mechanism is located within the seat frame and is only exposed once the panel is detached. This is a common reason for performing the jeep compass 2017 remove rear folddown back cover clip procedure.