What to Do When the Oil Drain Plug is Stripped?

[StRhett]

Place something on the screwdriver tip to increase friction. Inject 502 glue into the screw hole, wait for it to solidify, then use needle-nose pliers to unscrew the bolt. Avoid using a screwdriver to prevent further stripping. Heat the screwdriver tip until red-hot and quickly press it against the screw head.

[OJohn]

I've encountered this issue several times. Stripped threads when changing oil myself can be quite a headache. First, don't panic - immediately stop the oil change to prevent complete oil drainage or contaminants entering the engine. Try cleaning the bolt hole with a wire brush to remove debris, then use thread repair tools like thread inserts to reshape the threads (measure the size accurately). For severe damage, replace either just the drain plug or the entire oil pan (though that's more expensive). Prevention is key - avoid over-tightening during oil changes and regularly inspect thread wear. I often use PTFE tape as temporary sealing for emergencies, but it's only suitable for short trips (long-distance driving carries significant leakage risks that could damage the engine). Timely repair is crucial - keep basic automotive tools at home, but visit a professional shop if needed. Pro tip: never neglect routine maintenance.