How to Remove a Snap Ring on a Car

Even the simplest car repairs can seem expensive. To save money, you can learn to do a few things yourself--including removing the snap ring on your car, part of a larger valve joint replacement process.

Instructions

1

Put on your eye protection. The snap ring is a spring-loaded ring that sits around the valve joint. Take the risk seriously and protect your eyes.

2

Remove the grease seal. The grease seal is a rubber ring that keeps the snap ring lubricated on the valve joint. You can easily pull it off with needle-nose pliers.

3

Look for the opening on the snap ring. The snap ring is in the shape of a circle with an opening at the end.

4

Bend the snap ring so the spring loses its shape, and then pull it away from your car.