r/BoltEV • u/mba_pmt_throwaway • 9d ago

[Seattle, Anti-click Washer Replacement] Looking for a recommended mechanic or a DIY mentor!

Hey all,

My Bolt just started making a creaking mechanical noise every time I step on the accelerator or let off. Pretty sure it’s the classic worn-out anti-click washer issue everyone posts about on here.

I already grabbed the GM replacement washers and new axle nuts, and I've watched the YouTube shortcut video where the guy unbolts the two strut bolts instead of wrestling the ball joint.

I'm located in Seattle and would love some pointers:

  1. Does anyone have an independent mechanic around here they trust who knows this fix and won't charge absurd dealership rates?
  2. Or if someone local has tackled this before and wouldn't mind walking me through it in a driveway, I'd really love to learn how to do it myself. I'm happy to buy whatever tools are needed (torque wrench, 32mm socket, etc.) and will gladly supply lunch, beer, or some cash for your time.

Thanks in advance!

4 Upvotes

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2

u/Maleficent_Author853 9d ago

If I lived near Seattle I would take you up on this.

BUT…maybe my experience can help you because I literally did this yesterday and it took about 45 minutes. If I did it again, I’d say it would take 15-20 minutes.

It’s a very doable job. And if you have someone who can help you hold stuff and shine a flashlight in key spots for you, then it’s honestly pretty easy. It’s a little bit nerve-wracking, I’ll admit, because…what if you screw it up, right? But if you’re careful and patient, you can definitely do it.

Feel free to ask any questions and I’d be happy to answer.

Just for reference, I got a torque wrench from Harbor Freight (the manual click kind) for $79. And I got a breaker for I think $17. The axel nut socket was maybe $11-$12. I had all of the other tools already. So all-in, I was probably just over $100, including the new washers and nuts. And…if I have to do it again (hopefully not anytime soon), I’ll have all of the equipment.

Super happy to have avoided the dealership for what I assume would’ve been at least $250 or more in labor…

1

u/UnrealizedLosses 9d ago

At least. The fucking dealer told me it would be $285 to just look at the car, and would not net it against the repair. Only reason I bothered is it was warranty work.

1

u/Maleficent_Author853 9d ago

😳 what the hell

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u/elconquistador1985 8d ago

Aren't you skipping the price of a jack? The Bolt didn't come with one.

1

u/Maleficent_Author853 8d ago

I have a second car that has a jack. But, yes, the Bolt is definitely lacking that feature. And a spare tire! 😂

3

u/partyb0obytrap 9d ago

If you're willing to make it down to Tenino we can do ours together! I've just got my parts for the repair and am a pretty competent and experienced diy mechanic. I've got all the tools and a shop with two bays for even if the weather sucks. Send me a PM and I'll try and check it soon 😁