A connection assembly for attaching metallic and plastic components by a heat staking operation includes a first component, a second component, a compressible protrusion, an annular collar, and a deformable stud. The first component is formed of a metallic material and includes an inner surface. The second component includes an interior surface facing the inner surface of the first component and an opposite exterior surface. The second component includes a plurality of apertures which extend between the interior surface and the exterior surface. During the heat staking operation the deformable stud is deformed so as to restrain relative movement between the first and second components. The compressible protrusion plastically deforms to absorb pressure to prevent cracking of the second component and the annular collar absorbs heat to prevent the second component adjacent the aperture from melting.