Hi,
I have an 2004 A6 and when I was changing a flat I broke off a wheel lug, any suggestions on how to remove it?

Thanks
Rob

 

The theory is easy, but I recommend you get a metal machine shop to do it.

Use a metal drill tip smaller in diameter to the wheel lug. Drill through the wheel lug, but not too far (you need to have the right measurements). Once through, use a chisel to break the rest of the lug out.

Sounds simple doesn't it. Accuracy is critical, hence I wouldn't do it myself as I don't have the right tools.

Actually, there may be an easier way. Is there any of the wheel lug outside? If it is enough to get pliers on (I know which type I mean, but don't know what it is called, has a spring in it), you could try and undo it with the pliers and a long piece of steel scaffolding for extra torque.

 

Could you post a picture of the break? Do you have wheel lugs or wheel studs? I thought all VW/audi used wheel bolts. If you have any bit of steel left to grab you might be able to get it out with wheel bolt removers. I found a set at sears (they are hard to find) that are designed to pull stripped and broken wheel bolts. Worked for me when I cracked my security bolts.

 

Nothing that a vise grip couldn't handle... depends on where the break is though...

 

If you can't get any grip on the bolt try a bolt/screw extractor kit. It's like a backwards drill bit you use with an electric drill. I did this when pulling out a broken screw while replacing a blown gasket on an exhaust manifold. If the bolt is REALLY stuck in there try using some CRC Freeze off...that stuff works great.