SAE/USCAR-44-2:2023-03-23

This specification describes a method and acceptance criteria for testing automotive wire harness retainer clips. Retainer clips are plastic parts that hold a wire harness or electrical connector in a specific position. Typical plastic retainers work by having a set of "branches" that can be inserted into a hole sized to be easy to install but provide acceptable retention. This specification tests retainer clips for mechanical retention when exposed to the mechanical and environmental stresses typically found in automotive applications over a 15-year service life. This specification has several test options to allow the test to match to the expected service conditions. The variability of applications typically arises from different ambient temperatures near the clip, different proximity to automotive fluids, different exposure to standing water or water spray, and different thicknesses of the holes that the clip is inserted into. Clips are typically inserted into sheet or rolled metal from 0.6 to 8 mm thick, so this specification focuses on that range. Outside of this range requires a custom test.