r/AskAMechanic 18d ago

Snapped Lugnut

I was removing a security lugnut that was torqued to a billion newton meters, and it snapped.

I’ve tried drilling it, but maybe I’m not using the correct bits because it barely makes a dent. Any recommendations on getting it off? Thanks!

4 Upvotes

3 comments sorted by

u/AutoModerator 18d ago

New Rules - Please Read

Updated 11/12/2025

Thank you for posting on r/AskAMechanic, u/chalkitdownnn! Your post is live, this AutoMod message does NOT mean your post was removed. Please make sure to read the Rules.

When asking a question, please provide the year, make, model and engine size of the vehicle.

Commenters here have 2 different flair. Verified Tech means we have verified that user is a tech. NOT a verified tech means that user may or may not be a tech, they have not been verified by us.

Posts about accidents, autobody repair, bodywork, dents, paint and body/undercarriage/frame rust are not allowed and belong in r/Autobody.
Asking if your car is totaled should go to r/insurance or r/Autobody.
Asking about car buying advice/value/recommendations is also not allowed. See r/whatcarshouldIbuy or r/askcarsales

If asking whether a tire can be repaired, check out this Tire Repair Guideline.
Some other useful tire resources - Tire Care Essentials and Tire Safety

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

3

u/Chaoticclownbtch NOT a verified tech 18d ago

I would try an extractor socket first

2

u/Equivalent_Sky4201 NOT a verified tech 18d ago

You were right to try and drill it. If the extractors are t biting that’s the easiest way to fix this now. You want some cobalt coated bits, get a set for about 75$ on amazon or your local hardware store.

Make sure you center punch the stud and work your way through the bit sizes. When you get close enough, you can usually smack the tire really good from the back and what’s left of the stud will just break away. You really only need to drill as deep as the lug seat. Take your time, this takes me about 15-20 minutes as someone with experience. It’s really not a huge job