VW Seat Trim Retaining Dowel Pin – 171-881-500

VW Seat Trim Retaining Dowel Pin – 171-881-500

Keep your interior trim secure and rattle-free with this Seat Trim Retaining Dowel Pin. This specialized plastic fastener is designed specifically to lock the outer plastic side shields (seat adjustment covers) onto the metal seat frame. These pins are essential for a clean interior, as the side covers are frequently kicked or bumped when entering and exiting the vehicle.

Over time, these plastic pins become brittle and snap, or they are lost during seat repairs. Because they are designed as a "lock pin," they are often destroyed during removal. Replacing them with these factory-correct pins ensures your seat covers stay firmly in place, maintaining the finished look of your cabin.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

This retaining pin is used across a wide variety of VW models equipped with side trim covers continuously across the following years:

VW Rabbit / Golf (Mk1 & Mk2)

• 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992

VW Jetta (Mk1 & Mk2)

• 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992

VW Scirocco

• 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

VW Cabriolet

• 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993

VW Quantum & Fox

• 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993

Product Highlights & Features

• OEM Fit & Function: Matches the dimensions of VW part number 171-881-500 for a perfect fit into the seat frame holes.

• Two-Piece Style Design: Works by inserting the outer sleeve and then driving the center pin in to expand the clip and lock the trim in place.

• Durable Nylon Construction: Engineered to handle the vibration and movement of the seat without backing out.

• Inexpensive Restoration: A simple, low-cost way to fix annoying "floppy" seat trim.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 171-881-500

• Color: Black / Natural (depending on batch)

• Application: Seat Side Shield / Trim Cover Retainer

• Quantity: Sold Individually (Most seats require 1 to 2 pins per side cover)

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Clean the Hole: Before inserting the new pin, ensure the hole in the metal seat frame and the plastic trim is clear of any remnants from the old, broken pin.

• Installation Method: Insert the main body of the clip through the trim and into the seat frame first. Once seated flush, push the center dowel pin in until it is level with the head of the clip.

• Pro Tip: Since these are small and easy to lose or break during future repairs, it is always a good idea to keep a few extras in your glove box or toolbox.