Just bought a set of Ford roofbars(£50 only been used a couple of times) and went to try and fit them today. I've watched the video on Youtube and thought it would be a simple job...........How wrong?

In the video he just seemed to cut two slits and remove the sealant with a screwdriver and the screw just lifted out. On our car though it seems the screws are glued in and just will not budge.

Any tips before I try and drill them out?

I have removed several of these screws by using a hot screwdriver. The hot screwdriver melts into the plastic of the screws wicht will give you some more grip.

By the way these screws are basically just conical blanking plugs (they do not have thread). If these plugs are overtightened it will be almost impossible to remove them using a normal screwdriver.

Think my car must have been on April Fools day!!!

One came out just like it did on the video, the other 3 I had to resort to drilling out.

Decided then to wash the car before actually installing the bars and I broke the tap/hose connector!!!

Is it too early for beer? :)

I have removed several of these screws by using a hot screwdriver. The hot screwdriver melts into the plastic of the screws wicht will give you some more grip.

By the way these screws are basically just conical blanking plugs (they do not have thread). If these plugs are overtightened it will be almost impossible to remove them using a normal screwdriver.

Thanks for you reply Wilco ;)

Good idea on the hot screwdriver thing. If I ever have to do it again I'll remember that tip ;)

By the way if the roofbars are not used you have to plug the threaded holes. Do not leave the holes open when no roofbars are installed.

A few years ago I arrived at my holiday destination, removed the roofbars and did not plug the holes at that moment. After a bit of rain my roofliner was already wet the next morning. Because the original blanking plugs are rubbish (and not sold as a replacement part by Ford) I use stainless steel allen bolts and a non drying liquid gasket to plug the holes.

Cracking tip again Wilco, many thanks.

Crikey Kevin, seems you had a fun day of it!

All good now?

All good now James, thanks ;)

Made me feel better today when I heard a workmates weekend tales today.

Whilst following him yesterday into our kids football practice I noticed he had a brake-light out (C-Max) so of course I told him.

Spoke to him at work today and it seems it was quite a job :)

Apparently you need 10 inch long fingers with the strength of a super-hero to undo the plastic bolt./clip that holds the rear lens on. And to top it all he went to his car this morning and had a flat battery!!!

Unfortunately you do need all those minimum requirements for the replacement bulbs! as for the flat battery, I have reduced the risk of this by the LED bulbs.

I can testify though, the CMAX can be a begger to live with for the most simple of tasks!