Question on Oil Change

I went to change the oil in my 07 MCs convertible R52 and cannot remove the drain plug. It seems to have been over torqued and the nut on the plug is pretty stripped could be prior oil change at a cut rate place. Is there any method of removing a stripped plug short of drilling it out? I ended up doing the oil removal via pump method but want to drain it properly. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: MINI Cooper Oil Change (R50/R52/R53 2001-2006) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

[Nick at Pelican Parts]

Vise grips, bang a larger ALLEN bit into the holes or a bolt extractor. You shouldn't have to drill it. I am always successful (well almost always) at getting them out with vise grip. Grab the outside of the fastener with vise grips and use a swift motion to free it.

- Nick

[oldrer4me]

I briefly tried using a vice grip but what is left of the top of the plug is really rounded off making it difficult to get a proper hold. My next solution was as you suggested using an extractor bit (which was my meaning when I said drilling it out...sorry). It is just a bit difficult getting the proper torque with the limited space when not able to lift the auto on a professional lift (just using ramps/jack stands).

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Welding a nut onto the head of the bolt can work very well. The heat helps break the bonds between the bolt threads and the threads in the hole. It also gives you a good fresh hex to grab onto with a six-point socket. Put tension on the breaker bar, and whack it with a mallet. That often will break things loose.

--DD