The clip on mine developed a crack, and I'd read that if it breaks off then the cable connection can be damaged. So the clip is probably critical, and some Index owners have used the velcro straps from their Index box to keep the cable in place.

My cracked clip

To even contact support to request a new clip you'd need a System Report from Steam VR. So launch Steam VR, then on the drop-down select Create System Report, and save the file.

To find Steam support for the Valve Index to go:

• Help tab
  
• Steam support
  
• Steam hardware
  
• Steam VR
  
• Valve Index
  
• Contact Steam Support

I attached the system report, and also a photo of the damaged part when I sent them this message:

Originally posted by Hudson633:

Hi there,

My Valve Index developed a crack in the clip that holds the cable. I've attached a photo of the cracked part. I'm concerned that the clip may be critical, and that it'll soon break off. Is there a spare part that could be sent out?

Thanks.

I just call them cable clips but Valve might call them Tether clips while an official reseller of the clips lists them as "Valve Index Headset Head Strap Clips."

They replied within 2 hours, and after a couple more messages (sorting out some miscommunication and shipping details) they sent me a pair of clips which arrived a week later.

If they ask you for the serial number - your headset serial should start with an A, and can be found on the inside of the Index next to where your left temple would rest. You would need to carefully remove the gasket (which is magnetically held onto the headset) to be able to read it.

A new pair of clips

When I messaged Steam support about the replacement clips breaking 930 days after I purchased the Index, they replied that "the warranty period on your hardware has expired. Unfortunately, we will not be able to accommodate a replacement for this one" and added "If you need a new rear clip, replacement is available through iFixit Valve Index store" before linking the iFixit site:
https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Parts/Valve-Index

Don't shoot the messenger, but they are expensive.

Unfortunately I wasn't given any instructions on how to replace the clip, and I couldn't find anything in my Valve Index box about replacing the clip. All I can do is explain the method I used to replace it, and suggest doing some research before trying it yourself. There's a couple of YouTube videos showing it being done, and you could try asking Steam support if you're still not confident about trying it.

I used a tool like a flathead screwdriver to carefully lever the clip out. The Index is flexible, and the clip itself is slightly flexible. It may have been easier for me to remove my clip because it was broken, and part of the clip actually fell off as I removed it.

Removing the old clip

Make sure you're placing the clip in the correct way round, because the ends aren't the same.

Profile of the clip

The clip doesn't really snap into place; it has no special hooks or teeth. It simply clamps itself onto the slots, and appears to have a fragile hold of the cable. If you have any spare clips then obviously keep them safe for future use.

A new clip alongside the damaged one

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2820373397