The rear folddown back cover clip comes off by releasing the tension clip and sliding the cover backward

The 2017 Jeep Compass has a rear cargo cover that folds down when you need access to the back seat area. The clip that holds this cover in place is a straightforward tension mechanism — you don't need tools, and the whole process takes less than a minute. The clip sits on both the driver's side and passenger's side of the cargo area, just above where the rear seats fold.

To remove the clip, you'll locate the small plastic tension clip on each side, squeeze or pull it to release the pressure, and slide the cover backward out of its slot. Once you understand where the clip is and how it works, you can remove and reinstall it as many times as you need without damaging anything.

Key Takeaways

  • The rear folddown back cover has a tension clip on both the driver's and passenger's sides that holds it in place.
  • You release the clip by squeezing the small plastic lever or tab and sliding the cover backward simultaneously.
  • No tools are required — the clip is designed to be removed by hand pressure alone.
  • The cover can be reinstalled by sliding it forward into the slot until the clips snap back into place.
  • If the clip feels stuck, check that you're pulling the cover straight back rather than at an angle.

Locating the tension clips on your cargo cover

Open your rear cargo area and look at the top edge of the folddown back cover. You'll see a small plastic clip on each side — one near the driver's side door frame and one near the passenger's side. These clips are typically black or dark gray and protrude slightly from the cover itself. They're about the size of your thumb and have a small lever or tab that you can grip.

The clips sit in a horizontal slot that runs along the top of the cargo area. When the cover is in place, the clips hold it snug against the frame. The slot is part of the Compass's interior structure, so you won't damage anything by working with it.

Releasing the driver's side clip

Start on the driver's side. Locate the tension clip and grip the small lever or tab with your thumb and forefinger. The lever should be straightforward to pinch — it's designed for hand operation. Squeeze the lever firmly while simultaneously pulling the cargo cover backward toward the rear of the vehicle.

As you pull, the cover will slide out of the slot. You may hear a small click or feel a slight resistance as the clip releases — this is normal. Keep pulling steadily until the driver's side of the cover is completely free. Don't force it; if you feel strong resistance, double-check that you're pulling straight back rather than at an angle.

Releasing the passenger's side clip

Once the driver's side is free, move to the passenger's side and repeat the same motion. Squeeze the tension clip and pull the cover backward. The passenger's side usually releases just as easily as the driver's side. At this point, the entire cover should be loose and ready to fold down or remove completely.

If one side releases but the other feels stuck, don't force it. Go back to the first side and make sure it's fully released, then try the second side again. Sometimes the cover can bind slightly if one clip is still partially engaged.

What to do if the clip is stuck or damaged

If a clip won't release after squeezing, check that you're explore pressure to the actual lever and not just the cover itself. The lever is a separate piece that moves when you squeeze it. If the lever feels broken or won't move at all, the clip may be damaged and need replacement.

Jeep dealerships carry replacement clips for the 2017 Compass, and they're inexpensive parts. You can order one by part number through a Jeep parts supplier or a dealership service department. If you're not sure whether the clip is truly stuck or just needs more pressure, a dealership technician can confirm the problem in a few minutes.

Reinstalling the cover and clips

To put the cover back in place, align it with the slot at the top of the cargo area. Start by inserting the passenger's side into the slot, then slide the cover forward. Once it's partway in, insert the driver's side and continue sliding forward until both clips snap into their locked position. You'll feel or hear a small click when each clip engages.

Push gently on the cover to make sure it's seated properly and won't move. The clips should hold it firmly in place. If the cover feels loose after reinstalling, pull it out again and check that both clips are fully engaged in the slot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to remove both clips at the same time?

No, you can release one side at a time. However, the cover will hang at an angle if only one clip is released, so it's easier to release both and fold the entire cover down at once. If you're just trying to access one side of the cargo area, releasing both clips gives you the most flexibility.

What if the cover won't slide backward even after I release the clips?

Make sure you're pulling straight back, not at an angle or upward. The cover slides in a horizontal slot, so pulling at an angle can cause it to bind. Also check that both clips are fully released — if one is still partially engaged, the cover will resist. If it still won't move, stop and inspect the clips for visible damage.

Can I damage the clip by squeezing it too hard?

The clips are designed to be squeezed by hand, so normal pressure won't break them. However, if you're using a tool or explore extreme force, you could crack the plastic. Stick to hand pressure and steady pulling, and the clips will last for years.

Is the cargo cover removable, or does it only fold down?

On the 2017 Compass, the cover is designed to fold down rather than detach completely. Once both clips are released, you can fold it down into the cargo area, but the cover remains attached to the vehicle. You cannot remove it entirely without disconnecting additional hardware.