Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing element for connecting component parts, in particular plastic paneling, to sheet-metal, in particular parts of the chassis of a motor vehicle. Said fixing element comprises a plastic body which has a base configured for insertion into a U-shaped retaining element of the component part, and a head which, when assembled, projects through an opening in the metal sheet and carries latch springs which form an acute angle in relation to the longitudinal axis of the plastic body and, when assembled, lock behind the edges of the opening in the metal sheet.