Help - Replaced spark plugs on my 2017 RDX 90K miles but damaged the green coil retainer clips...one dealer service rep said i one have to replace the entire engine wiring harness...any other ideas?

Top 2 photos - the damaged clips - bottom photo normal undamaged clip

 

This happened to me with my old ’04 Camry. These plastic bits get brittle after so many heat/cold cycles.

I just left it connected and hoped it would stay. Still there after five years and no engine trouble or codes, etc.

Curious: did you replace the coils also? I’m going to have the dealer change my ’07 RDX plugs and I’m expecting them to say I need to also replace the coils. From what I’ve read, if they’re working properly there’s no need to replace them.

How much did the dealer want to replace the wiring harness?

 

The wiring harness is very stiff and that tends to holds the clip down - I checked a few times and they don't seem to be coming loose - also no engine codes. I inspected the coils and did not notice any oil damage or cracks so i did not replace them. The dealer indicated about 2-3K or more...I did find replacement coil clips at RockAuto so I ordered some for backup - but they have to be spliced into the existing harness....maybe your experience with no issues will hold for me also....Thanks...

 

$2-3K for new wiring harness?!?
Splicing a new clip in sounds like a little deeper than I’d want to go. Pretty awkward location to do that kind of stuff, too.
Someday I’ll find an independent mechanic I can trust to do this kind of work: stuff that’s a little over my head but someone who can do a common sense repair instead of swapping with a new part. This seems to be the default response at dealerships!
Is the splice-in solution something you might try?

 

I took a second look at the wiring harness - it is tightly wrapped so the cut and splice would be difficult...I'm thinking of just leaving it and hoping the stiff harness keeps the clips in place....so far that seems to be the case....thanks