I’ve spent countless hours in the garage dealing with cracked bumpers, loose fender liners, and brittle interior panels. Finding the right best rivets for plastic is crucial; metal rivets often crack brittle materials, which is why specialized nylon rivets and plastic fasteners are essential for clean, durable repairs, especially in automotive trim. We’ve tested seven top options to help you determine exactly which rivet set will work best for your next project.
Contents
- GOOACC 115 Pcs Automotive Nylon Universal Pop Rivet Assortment – 6 Most Popular Sizes & Applications for GM Ford Chrysler VW
- Mardatt 42Pcs Plastic Rivet Gun Set with 40Pcs 4Sizes Nylon Blind Rivets and 1Pcs Fastener Removal Tool, Hand Riveter Suitable for Automotive and More
- GOOACC 82Pcs Plastic Rivet Gun Set with Fastener Remover Pop Rivet Assortment – for All Plastic Rivets Safe Metal or Plastic Clips Removal for Installing and Removing Car Door Upholstery
- AP Products 013-140 Plastic 1″ Rivets – White, Pack of 25
- UNIGT 150pcs ATV UTV Body Fastener Rivets Push Pin Compatible with Can Am 293150089 Polaris 7661855 RZR Ranger Suzuki Kawasaki Rancher 90653-HC4-900 Plastic Fender Clips
- ALLCLEAN 3/16″ x 3/4″ Tri-Fold Rivets Assortment – 60Pcs,Black Tri-fold Exploding Pop Rivets Solid Aluminum Tri Grip Rivets Bulb Style Rivets for Kayak Marine Boat
- 150Pcs Plastic Rivet Clip,Automotive Universal Nylon Pop Rivet Assortment,6 Most Popular Sizes Black Nylon Universal Rivet Kit,Replacement for GM Ford Chrysler VW,Nylon Fastener
- Comparison Insights: Choosing the Right Plastic Rivet
- Final Verdict
- Best Rivets For Plastic: Essential FAQs and Buying Guide
- Q1: Why should I use plastic rivets instead of standard metal pop rivets on plastic panels?
- Q2: Do I need a special tool (rivet gun) to install plastic blind rivets?
- Q3: What is the difference between nylon and POM rivets?
- Q4: Are “Tri-Fold Exploding Rivets” suitable for all types of plastic?
- Q5: How do I select the correct size of plastic fastener for a replacement?
- Q6: Can I reuse plastic rivets after removing them?
GOOACC 115 Pcs Automotive Nylon Universal Pop Rivet Assortment – 6 Most Popular Sizes & Applications for GM Ford Chrysler VW
This large assortment kit is ideal for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts who tackle general automotive repairs frequently. You get a substantial supply of high-quality nylon blind rivets designed to replace many common OEM plastic fasteners across major vehicle brands. The strength and resilience of these best rivets for plastic make them excellent for securing fender flares, bumper liners, and underbody plastics where a durable, non-corrosive connection is necessary. This set focuses on providing 6 of the most popular sizes, ensuring you usually have the right fit without having to run to the parts store.
Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Size Range: Includes 6 of the most popular OEM replacement sizes (3/16″, 1/4″, 17/64″).
– Universal Application: Specifically designed to replace fasteners for GM, Ford, Chrysler, and VW.
– Durable Material: Made from high-quality black nylon which resists wear and corrosion.
Pros:
– Excellent value due to the sheer quantity and range of sizes.
– Direct replacements for many hard-to-find OEM part numbers.
– Ideal for general automotive plastic repair and panel fastening.
Cons:
– Does not include the necessary rivet installation tool (rivet gun).
Best for: High-volume automotive body repairs and stocking up a professional shop.
Expert Opinion: This set is a superb foundation for any garage working on domestic and European cars. While you need your own gun, the cross-reference compatibility list makes choosing the right fastener straightforward.
Mardatt 42Pcs Plastic Rivet Gun Set with 40Pcs 4Sizes Nylon Blind Rivets and 1Pcs Fastener Removal Tool, Hand Riveter Suitable for Automotive and More
The Mardatt kit is a great starting point if you don’t already own a specialized plastic rivet gun. This set provides the necessary plastic riveting tool, a good assortment of 40 nylon blind rivets in common sizes, and a crucial fastener removal tool. Its rivet gun features a slim design, which is perfect for reaching tight or narrow areas often encountered when working on car bodies or HVAC systems. The anti-slip grip also ensures comfort and safety during installation, making this one of the more user-friendly choices among the best rivets for plastic kits.
Key features that stand out:
– Complete Kit: Includes gun, 40 rivets, and a fastener removal tool.
– Slim Gun Head: Designed to access hard-to-reach spots easily.
– High-Quality Nylon Rivets: Low-friction, good resistance to heat and UV rays.
Pros:
– Ready-to-use kit right out of the box; no extra tools required.
– Ergonomic handle with anti-slip rubber sleeve.
– Comes with clear tips for troubleshooting a stuck rivet mandrel.
Cons:
– The included rivet quantity is smaller than large assortment packs.
Best for: Beginners or DIYers needing a tool and an initial set of fasteners for smaller projects.
Expert Opinion: The inclusion of the specialized gun and the removal tool makes this a fantastic entry-level package. It addresses the common challenge of removing old fasteners without damaging the surrounding trim.
GOOACC 82Pcs Plastic Rivet Gun Set with Fastener Remover Pop Rivet Assortment – for All Plastic Rivets Safe Metal or Plastic Clips Removal for Installing and Removing Car Door Upholstery
Stepping up in quality, the GOOACC 82Pcs kit pairs a durable, alloy steel rivet gun with high-strength polyoxymethylene (POM) rivets. This is a robust kit designed for continuous use, featuring an ergonomic design that allows for setting the rivets perfectly in a single, effortless stroke. The material quality of the POM rivets offers superior durability and wear-resistance compared to standard nylon, making this ideal for high-stress areas like car door panels and upholstery.
Key features that stand out:
– Effortless Rivet Gun: Lightweight design for one-hand operation and single-stroke setting.
– Superior Material: Includes 80 polyoxymethylene (POM) rivets for enhanced strength and longevity.
– Comprehensive Accessories: Comes with a fastener removal tool that is safe for both plastic and metal clips.
Pros:
– POM material provides excellent hardness and wear resistance.
– The rivet gun is designed to accept plastic rivets of all sizes.
– Ideal for professional-grade interior and exterior automotive work.
Cons:
– Slightly pricier than kits using standard nylon materials.
Best for: Professionals and serious hobbyists demanding a high-quality tool and premium rivet material.
Expert Opinion: The use of POM rivets sets this kit apart. If you’re concerned about the longevity and strength of your plastic repairs, the slight investment in this material is definitely worth it.
AP Products 013-140 Plastic 1″ Rivets – White, Pack of 25
Sometimes you just need a specialized rivet for a niche application, and the AP Products set delivers just that. These are specialized 1-inch white plastic rivets commonly used in RVs, campers, and certain aesthetic panel applications where a clean, visible white fastener is required. While simple in design, their 1-inch length provides extra grip range for thicker materials or complex layered assemblies. They fit into a standard 1/4″ diameter hole, making installation simple if you have the correct depth requirements.
Key features that stand out:
– Specific Size: 1-inch length allows for riveting thicker panels.
– Aesthetic Color: White color blends into specific RV or interior panel finishes.
– Universal Fit: Designed for standard 1/4″ diameter holes.
Pros:
– Excellent choice when working with thicker plastics or multi-layered materials.
– Perfect for recreational vehicle repair and installation.
– Simple, straightforward installation.
Cons:
– Limited to a single size and color, making it non-universal.
Best for: RV, marine, or specialized interior architectural paneling where a long white fastener is needed.
Expert Opinion: Don’t overlook single-size packs if your project calls for consistency. These are not general-purpose best rivets for plastic, but they are the best when you need that specific length and white finish.
UNIGT 150pcs ATV UTV Body Fastener Rivets Push Pin Compatible with Can Am 293150089 Polaris 7661855 RZR Ranger Suzuki Kawasaki Rancher 90653-HC4-900 Plastic Fender Clips
Off-road vehicles subject their plastic trim to extreme vibrations, mud, and stress, which demands fasteners that can withstand rough treatment. This large 150-piece set provides solid nylon push pins designed specifically for ATV and UTV body panels, fenders, and bumpers. These push pins are an excellent alternative to traditional pop rivets, offering a reusable, easy-to-install solution that maintains the integrity of the plastic without cracking. They are guaranteed to be better than or match OEM quality, providing long-lasting retention.
Key features that stand out:
– Off-Road Specific: Ideal for ATV, UTV, RZR, and snowmobile fender clips.
– High-Quality Nylon: Solid construction ensures no breaking during use.
– Reusable Design: Can be removed and reinstalled if bodywork requires disassembly.
Pros:
– Superior resistance to vibration and impact common in off-road use.
– Simple push-in installation (no rivet gun required).
– Includes replacement part numbers for cross-reference ease.
Cons:
– Requires a standard push-pin removal tool rather than a rivet gun.
Best for: Repairing and maintaining the body panels of off-road vehicles (UTVs/ATVs).
Expert Opinion: For anyone dealing with powersports vehicles, these push pins are a necessity. They handle the stress of impact better than many standard blind rivets and provide rapid installation.
ALLCLEAN 3/16″ x 3/4″ Tri-Fold Rivets Assortment – 60Pcs,Black Tri-fold Exploding Pop Rivets Solid Aluminum Tri Grip Rivets Bulb Style Rivets for Kayak Marine Boat
The ALLCLEAN Tri-Fold rivets represent a crucial specialized category among the best rivets for plastic: those designed for soft or fragile materials. Unlike standard pop rivets that create a small bulb on the backside, these aluminum tri-fold exploding rivets deploy three large auxiliary heads, creating a massive closure surface. This significantly reduces the risk of the rivet pulling through or cracking soft materials like rubber, thin plastic dashboards, foam, or fiberglass (like kayak hulls).
Key features that stand out:
– Tri-Fold Design: Explodes into three large feet for superior surface bearing capacity.
– Fragile Material Friendly: Ideal for soft materials, glass, or thin plastics where traditional rivets fail.
– All Aluminum Construction: Durable, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for marine environments.
Pros:
– Prevents sag and pulling through on soft or oversized holes.
– Excellent corrosion resistance for wet or marine applications.
– Works well for riveting irregularly shaped holes.
Cons:
– Requires a standard rivet tool (not included) designed for aluminum blind rivets.
Best for: Marine applications (kayaks, boats), securing light boxes, or repairing fragile plastic car dashboards.
Expert Opinion: If you are dealing with brittle or soft materials, this is your solution. The tri-fold design spreads the load out dramatically, making it a professional choice for demanding installations where panel integrity is a concern.
150Pcs Plastic Rivet Clip,Automotive Universal Nylon Pop Rivet Assortment,6 Most Popular Sizes Black Nylon Universal Rivet Kit,Replacement for GM Ford Chrysler VW,Nylon Fastener
This 150-piece assortment offers similar universal coverage to the first GOOACC kit but provides a slightly different size mix and focuses heavily on sheer volume and rapid accessibility. Made from high-quality black nylon, these clips are robust, vibration-resistant, and won’t easily crack or break. They are excellent for keeping a complete stock of fasteners on hand for quick repairs to fenders, bumpers, and body moldings without needing to visit an auto shop.
Key features that stand out:
– High Quantity: Includes 150 pieces (25 each in 6 universal sizes).
– Anti-Wear Material: High-quality nylon provides excellent anti-corrosion properties.
– Universal Fitment: Widely applicable for front bumper, fender, hood, and body moldings on many major vehicle brands.
Pros:
– Provides ample stock for multiple future projects.
– Simple operation for quick repairs, suitable for non-professionals.
– Easily access confined areas due to the design.
Cons:
– Requires a separate pop rivet gun for installation.
Best for: Maintaining a comprehensive inventory of the best rivets for plastic for various automotive makes and models.
Expert Opinion: This set is a workhorse assortment. If your goal is to minimize downtime waiting for a specific fastener, having this level of stock on hand is highly efficient.
Comparison Insights: Choosing the Right Plastic Rivet
When comparing these sets, the choice often comes down to tools versus quantity. If you need a complete tool kit immediately, the Mardatt or GOOACC 82Pcs set is the right way to go, as they include the specialized plastic rivet gun. For sheer volume and OEM compatibility, the GOOACC 115 Pcs or 150Pcs assortments offer the best value for stocking up.
Material matters significantly: standard nylon is great for general use, but the GOOACC 82Pcs uses POM rivets, which provide superior strength and longevity.
For highly specialized repairs, you must look outside the universal kits. The ALLCLEAN Tri-Fold rivets are critical for applications involving soft materials like boat hulls or thin dashboards where standard pop rivets might fail by pulling through. If you are specifically repairing UTVs or ATVs, the UNIGT push pins offer specific high-vibration durability and reusable functionality that traditional blind rivets don’t provide.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right best rivets for plastic depends entirely on your primary application:
The Overall Best Starter Kit: The GOOACC 82Pcs Plastic Rivet Gun Set takes the prize here. It provides a durable, ergonomic gun, a fastener removal tool, and higher quality POM rivets, offering the best balance of tool quality and fastener durability.
Best for Specialized Fragile Materials: When repairing soft materials or avoiding panel damage is paramount, the ALLCLEAN 3/16″ x 3/4″ Tri-Fold Rivets Assortment is an indispensable specialty item.
Best for Automotive Stock: If you need a massive selection of OEM replacement sizes for general shop maintenance, the GOOACC 115 Pcs Automotive Nylon Universal Pop Rivet Assortment is the most cost-effective way to keep every size on hand.
Best Rivets For Plastic: Essential FAQs and Buying Guide
Q1: Why should I use plastic rivets instead of standard metal pop rivets on plastic panels?
A: Metal rivets are typically made of aluminum or steel, which expand significantly when set. This can easily stress and crack brittle or thin plastic panels, especially over time or in cold temperatures. Plastic or nylon rivets are designed to expand softly, distributing the pressure more evenly across the material, resulting in a cleaner, more durable bond for automotive plastic repair.
Q2: Do I need a special tool (rivet gun) to install plastic blind rivets?
A: Yes, generally you do. While many small plastic push pins (like those used on UTVs) are installed by hand, most true plastic blind rivets require a specific plastic rivet gun. These guns are calibrated differently than metal riveters and are essential for achieving the proper setting without damaging the nylon or POM rivet body.
Q3: What is the difference between nylon and POM rivets?
A: Nylon is a very common, cost-effective material offering good durability and flexibility. Polyoxymethylene (POM), often found in higher-end kits, is a type of engineering thermoplastic. POM rivets offer superior hardness, excellent resistance to wear, and better dimensional stability, making them suitable for high-stress areas or components exposed to friction.
Q4: Are “Tri-Fold Exploding Rivets” suitable for all types of plastic?
A: Tri-Fold rivets (like the ALLCLEAN set) are specifically recommended for softer or more fragile materials, such as fiberglass, thin plastics, rubber, and foam. Because they “explode” into three broad feet, they provide an extra-large bearing surface that prevents the rivet from pulling through or cracking the substrate—a common issue when using standard blind rivets on soft materials.
Q5: How do I select the correct size of plastic fastener for a replacement?
A: The two critical measurements are the hole diameter and the grip range. The hole diameter must match the rivet body diameter exactly. The grip range (the total thickness of the material you are riveting together) must fall within the range specified by the plastic fastener manufacturer to ensure a tight, secure hold after installation.
Q6: Can I reuse plastic rivets after removing them?
A: Standard pop rivets for plastic (blind rivets) cannot be reused as the mandrel is permanently broken off during the installation process. However, many plastic push-pin style fasteners (like the UNIGT set) are designed to be removable and reusable, often requiring a fastener removal tool to pry them out gently.
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