A number of years ago, I inherited a few Snap-On trim pin removers. But I also bought a set of cheap tools from Harbor Freight. They seem to work well for the "post type" and the "Christmas tree" type.

 

try a angle side cutter or push under the flat part of the x mas tree clip and close the jaws softly and twist and it will remove your clip with no problem. red neck tec.

 

The small needlenose pliers gave me an idea. I have a set of small bent nose needlenose pliers. They worked like a charm.

 

Usually i just use a wire cutter and just cut them off. Too much of a hassle to try to same them. Go to your local parts store and buy a box of new ones.

 

I was able to get tool for push pins at Auto ZoneI belive less then $ 10

 

Yep.... on hand and easy.

 

Garden Dandelion weed puller. Don't ask how I started using it-it just works. That all I have to say.

Here's a cheap example. If the tips are very pointy grind them round.
http://www.amazon.com/Ames-Co-198680...3218647&sr=8-5

or

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/web...T|GRP2083____#

 

I replaced my headlight bulbs Saturday. Tried a couple different ways to remove those &%$*@ clips, a couple that have been mentioned here. Since I had to go to the parts store anyway, (forgot to pickup aforementioned &%$*@ clips), I saw this tool called Clip Removal Pliers (p/n Autocraft AC 505). The price was a little high at $20.00 but I bought them anyway. They worked very well for me, worth the 20 bucks IMO. Oh yeah, I got them at Advance Auto Parts.

Your mileage may vary.

 

These are the tools I use
http://www.amazon.com/Push-Pin-Pliers-Kit-2-Pc/dp/
or
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...U&pf_rd_m=ATVP
and I use wire cutters to pull the christmas tree style clips.

 

At least I'm not the only one who wrestles with these stupid little boogers. I miss the days of good old nuts and bolts.