How To Remove A Broken Screw

When repairing vehicles, it is common to accidentally break off a screw head. I believe everyone has one or two methods for removing broken screws. Some are simple, while others are more complex. Today I will share seven practical methods to remove a broken screw easily.

Method 1: Weld a Nut

Tools: welding machine, pliers, nutSteps:

Choose a nut that matches the size of the broken screw.

Hold the nut with pliers and weld it firmly to the top of the broken screw.Caution: Do not weld the screw to the housing or any surrounding parts.

Once cooled, unscrew the broken screw counterclockwise.

Method 2: Hammer + Slotted Screwdriver

Tools: hammer, slotted screwdriverSteps:Chisel a small notch vertically on the edge of the broken screw with the screwdriver and hammer. Then tilt the tool and tap counterclockwise to gradually back the screw out.

Method 3: Hammer + Punch

Tools: hammer, punchSteps:Same as Method 2 – first chisel a notch, then use the punch diagonally to tap and unscrew the broken screw counterclockwise.

Method 4: Hammer + Chisel

Tools: hammer, chiselSteps:Same as Methods 2 and 3 – make a notch, then use the chisel diagonally with hammer taps to turn the screw counterclockwise until it comes out.

Method 5: Screw Extractor (Left-Hand Tap)

Tools: electric drill, left-hand screw extractor, wrenchSteps:

Drill a small hole in the center of the broken screw, slightly smaller than the screw diameter.

Insert the extractor and turn it counterclockwise by hand to lock it in.

Use a wrench to continue turning counterclockwise until the extractor and broken screw come out together.

Method 6: Drill-Out Method

Tools: electric drill, small and large drill bits, slotted screwdriverSteps:

First use a small drill bit to pierce through the broken screw.

Switch to a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw diameter and drill through completely.Tip: Drilling with a small bit first then a larger one is much faster.

Use a screwdriver to pry out any remaining fragments.