How do I replace a wheel stud / lug nut on my 2003 Sentra? How dangerous is it to be driving my car now?
By Ken on May 02, 2010 with Comments 2
I popped a tire on my 2003 Nissan Sentra. When it was being replaced, one of the wheel studs and lug nuts broke. I have bought a new wheel stud and lug nuts. Is replacing these parts something I can do at home? If so, how? And how dangerous is it to be driving my car around with one wheel stud / lug nut missing?
The problem is on the front passenger tire and there are supposed to be four wheel studs / lug nuts. (I’m driving around with three right now.)
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Filed Under: Accessories
Julie i am assuming you have a 4 lug pattern… so i would have the stud/nut replaced asap…there are hundreds of cars running around with a broken stud but why take a chance.. the repair can be simple or difficult depending on front/rear or clearence available to punch out and replace the stud without further disassembly of brake components or hub/axle interference
Not only is it dangerous, but it’s a huge legal liability. Without even torque, you can get excessive twisting on the remaining studs. If they break and you’re invovled in an accident, they could nail you for negligence.
To do this job and home you can try to use a large C clamp. Mount a large socket behind the old stud and a small socket on the broken part. Then compress the C clamp and drive the old stud out. Reverse the process to install the new stud.
Rick
I’m a retired ASE Master/L-1 Technician. I still keep current with the latest automotive technology. Visit my blog for cool articles and TSB’s: http://free-auto-repair-advice.blogspot.com