vebong

Got a p1800 code and trying to access the intake runner control solenoid under the engine cover. However, noticed that the two allen bolts near the back of the engine cover are stripped. 3/16 allen wrench does not work. Was able to able to get the front ones off, and the engine cover is loose. Thinking about just yanking the cover off since it is a plasticky contraption. Is that a bad idea? Do I need to take it to shop to have the bolts drilled out? Had a similar issue when changing out my alternator a few months ago. Long bolt seized, and I had to get outside help at a shop

TDGrant

Yeah, I went through that in 2008; like you, I also used the wrong allen wrench and stripped them clean out. I just used a small pair of vice grips, clammed down on those aluminum bolts,and worked them out. They are not in super tight, the bolts are just made from the wrong material.

The engine cover was immediately put in the garbage, and there hasn't been one of the car since, so there is no worry there.

vebong

Appreciate the response....I guess the cover is just there for aesthetics

2002SEMT

That's aesthetics at cost of something that will make a fire under the hood much more difficult to extinguish.