How do I remove a rounded oil pan bolt?

Question

The car is a 2000 alero. I believe it is a 15mm bolt, and I need to get a replacement.

Answer 1

Hey Nate,

I am assuming that you stripped it. Clean it off with degreaser.

Try first to use a Vise-Grip. Sometimes you can get the grips on there and it will come off.

Since it's a metric bolt - Are you sure that it's not a hex head on the inside?

Last resort - Tap it out! A tap set is under $10 and you'll have it out in 10 minutes.

Hope I helped,

James in San Diego

Answer 2

craftsman makes a set of sockets that get tighter on the head as you loosen. just for rounded head bolts. sounds like a big bolt for a oil pan but any auto parts or hardware store will have a replacement bolt for it once you have it out. nothing to worry about. hope this helps

Answer 3

A dremel tool with a sanding disk, can reshape the bolt, and make it flat on edges you need.

I often use the disks, (which are paper thin and easy to break by the way), to cut a slot into a screw that is stripped.
So a Philipps screw becomes slotted.

You might not want to cut a slot into your bolt, because it may weaken it, but reshaping the edges to make it square, will make it easy to remove.

To avoid the disks from breaking, I use two at a time, to add strength. Depends on the job, paper thin cut, or more for strength.

Answer 4

Vice grips will usually work. If necessary, use that spray brake cleaner to remove any oil. Excellent way to dissolve oil is brake cleaner, on any metal surface. You might have to use a propane torch. (Don't heat the bolt, heat the part the bolt sticks into!).

Answer 5

they make kits to remove rounded bolts you can pick the kit at sears ask the guy for the bolt extractors

Answer 6

a pair of vice grips or locking pliers

Answer 7

Just use a 12 pt. socket. use one thats too small so you have to tap it on with a hammer.

Answer 8

vice grips will take it out if it is rounded off.