Tom,
The later model lower grill retainer's will require you to drill the
center's out and the grill will be able to be removed.
They are  not like the earlier Vanagon's with the plastic / nylon insert
and then a screw to attach the grill.

The later model nylon expandable lower grill attachment inserts have to
be replaced after drilling the pins / center's out .
It's a one time use attatchment hardware item.

RC

Subject: removing lower grill?
Hi all:
I have a 1987 vanagon westfalia and I'd like to remove the lower front
grill. It has5 or so rectangular plastic "pins" that I don't know how to
remove without breaking!
Please help!
Thanks, Tom