Tahoe 2003; 5.3 L Flex:
Trying to R/R the top vapor tube of Evap canister.
I did this a week ago with HUGE difficulty while trying to squeeze the opposing side panels at the quick disconnect.
After probably 3 attempts over 3 hours, it finally released.

Today, while trying to do the same procedure... I could not get it to release with my finger strength, so I used a needle nose pliers to squeeze the side tabs as I did last week.
Result : snapped one side tab.
How to proceed to remove the quick disconnect that now has a snapped side tab?
Is it possible to squeeze the upper circular ring to cause the locking jaws to open?

Squeeze tab on opposing side snapped .How to disconnect?

 

Looks like you are in the rust belt. Get a new cannister and get the repair kit for the attaching lines.

 

Resolved.
I was able to lower the old canister with the middle vapor line still attached.
With better access, I used two thin screwdrivers to pry the tabs outward on the connector and it released .

I installed a new evaporative canister from Rock Auto ( $111 with postage ) as you suggested .
Started vehicle , no codes so far.

Your advice to me has been spot on every time. Thank you.

 

You connectors are still suspect and hope they hold up but eventually you will need the repair kits or the whole lines. Maybe, just maybe, the set up now will work fine. Those connectors are such a PITA sometimes.