whats the trick to unhooking the plastic clip-on connector on the coil pack (top of the spark plugs) wire.

The plastic connection has an arrow on it and says push

are they talking push down, or push to the side toward the top of the coil pack.
I got the first one off but by chance.

not much wear on the plugs at 52k miles - look like new

 

I have no idea what you're talking about. You mean disconnect the connector from the coil pack so that you can take the coil off completely? You just push the tab and pull the connector just like ALL the other connectors on the car.

 

Yes that is what I am asking like when changing plugs (I have not taken off any other connectors before on the car)

when u say push are you talking push sideways
or squeeze together?/ I tried both on the first plug neither worked well

 

Push it inwards and it will click and release.

 

yeah just put your finger on the tab and push toward the coil it will click and come off...

 

I got two more clips off.
i still must be missing something basic - as it seems you push the tab in one direction then the clip itself is supposed to jump off against the direction you are pushing? the tabs are real hard to push over on my car.

and how long do plugs last ? - mine at 52k look almost brand new- 99 I30
i changed the front 3
i may wait 10k to do the back 3

 

You push the tab down and pull the connector.