Valve Cover Bolt Snapped!

[xTLRxPrototype]

So I decided to take off my valve cover to paint it, probably typical of most civic owners, and most expectedly, the bottom right bolt snapped at the bottom when I put it back in, the rest are fine. So First, how big of deal is this to leave that little piece. Seconds, how long should I wait until I get a new one, can I atleast drive for a week or 2 before getting a new one, and what would be a good place to go to, a honda dealer, local mechanic, DIY. Recommendations please.

 

[Osiris19]

First, what engine/car? If its anything like my LS, its a ttud that threads into the head with a dowel that goes into the tube of the valve cover hole and then the nut on top. If it snapped off in the head,,you'll have to try and easy out it.

 

[xTLRxPrototype]

1999 Honda Civic EX 4dr Sedan 1.6 L 4-cylinder. The bolt snapped all the way down at the threads, i havent taken off the cover to see if there is still a piece to take out with vice grips, its too late im gonna do it in the morning. I dont really see any oil leakage, i was driving for a good hour and a half.

 

[Osiris19]

You should be fine for now, but get a OEM stud at a Honda dealership. They're like less than $3. You'll need an easy out if there's nothing to grab.

 

[xTLRxPrototype]

Alright, appreciate it man, it's my first car and I treat it like a baby. I cleaned the hell out of this thing and its in almost perfect condition. Little things like this KILL me.

 

[Osiris19]

No problem. s**t like this happens on older cars.

 

[xTLRxPrototype]

Sorry one more thing, is the oil leakage going to be minimal or significant. How will it affect me in the long run.

 

[Osiris19]

If the valve cover gasket and other nuts are tight and installed right, I shouldn't leak, except maybe under hard acceleration. All you'll see is less and less oil on the dipstick and a nice mess.