I'd like to remove my stock exhaust tips for cleaning, looks like I need a special socket. I have a full toolbox but not a socket like this one. Looks like a Torx head, which I have some Torx bits in my toolbox but no socket. Before I go buy something, is that what it is? And do these tips typically come off fairly easily (assuming not rusted on)?

Anyone else remove their tips for a deeper cleaning to avoid damaging the bumper cover? Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

The socket you need is an E12 Torx socket. I got mine at Lowes. Home depot probably has them as well.

 

The Torx bits are sized as T99 (T15, T20, T25, etc.). Torx sockets also known as External Torx are sized as E99 (E6, E8, E10, E12, etc.). There are also universal sockets that do normal 6-pt bolts, 12-pt, square head, external torx, spline, and partially rounded too. It sounds like you need an external torx or universal socket.

Torx T-type:


External Torx E-type:


Universal Type:

 

Plus there's the torx bit with the hole in the middle - so-called tamper-proof or security bits.

 

Before cleaning, just after removal




Cleaned up and reinstalled


Thanks cbst09, you were exactly right. I stopped at the hardware store and picked up a set of Torx sockets, they were even on sale. I cleaned the tips up with all purpose cleaner, some P21S polishing soap, P21S metal polish and Sonus aluminum sealant. They went back on fine, I just didn't take a good before shot on the car. Thanks for the advice. Not sure what to torque them back to so I made them "tight". Took a nice test drive, then will recheck torque after they cool

 

Nice job! They look great, the bad news is that unfortunately they will be dirty again after only a few drives, I've given up on trying to keep mine clean anymore.