I own a 1995 Nissan Maxima. Like an idiot, I tried to change my alternator by myself but I snapped in half the slack adjuster bolt for the serpentine belt in the process. How bad is this? Would I be able to drive 25 miles to the nearest mechanic? Would the belt fly off and cause more damage? The belt is tight right now. I did not get a chance to loosen it.Help I broke my car?
Is the other half of the bolt stuck in the block? If the belt is tight enough it should make it to the shop. Since the bolt broke off in the block, there is a couple of ways to remove it. It can be drilled and tapped or their are some specialty bits that can bite into and unscrew it. If your unable to or don't want to attempt to remove it, a reputable shop should only charge you a couple hours worth of labor. Which depending on where you live will be a couple hundred bucks. This is just to get the broken bolt out. Once out, a new bolt and the old adjuster can go back on. If they tell you that they can't get it out and need a new block, I would go somewhere else. Also depending on how tight a fit it is, some components might have to be removed to get it out which will cost more labor hours and dollars.Help I broke my car?
go to a mechanicHelp I broke my car?
I wouldn't chance it. You'll end up on the side of road and who knows what damage you might cause in the attempt. Better call a tow.Help I broke my car?
no I wouldnt drive it - sounds a bit risky and sorta stupid.Help I broke my car?
As long as the belt is still tight and there is no way for the bolt to loosen then you are fine to drive it to your mechanic. If the belt comes off your car will simply shut down as the serpentine belt controls most all of your vital parts.Help I broke my car?
Remove the belt, the battery will carry you for 25 miles.Help I broke my car?
oooo that is a tough one. I wouldnt be surprised either way. maybe it will break, maybe it will hold. I say go for it. You can run your car without the alternator for a while, but the battery has to be pretty charged for you to do that, it will eventually go dead. Good luck.Help I broke my car?
I had something similar happen several years ago, not a Nissan though, it was a Chrysler and the alternator belt broke. I drove it to the nearest garage, 30 miles away with no problems except that they had to recharge my battery after replacing the belt, so you might get by with removing the belt for a short distance. No Guarantees though since I don't know anything about Nissans.
Good Luck
