So the mechanic I took my car to years ago stripped the bolt that hold the rotor on the front right. The only way I can see to get it off is to drill it out. My question: can I drive without that bolt or will the cause problems?

 

You don't need the bolt. It only aligns the rotor when mounting the tire. I have been driving without one for several years now.

 

Good to know, thanks!

 

The bolt is only a couple of bucks for a new one

 

Yeah Wil, it's only a few bucks ! You cheapskate !

 

And lazy...

 

The bolt can be drilled out and removed using an Easy Out tool.
When you replace the bolt, put a little antisieze on the threads.
It will make it easier for the next tech that has to work on it.

 

I buy things like that since they are cheap and if ever you are right there, feel like messing with it, you have the $2 part if you can get the old one out. If not, sooner or later when you buy new rotors, you will have one.

 

Try turning it out with a hammer and chisel first, that will be easier than drilling it out.
If you need the bolts we stock them too.

 

What's the thread size for a thread chaser? I snapped the head on one today. Drilled it out down to the threads, and put the new bolt in my cup holder.

 

If you have the new bolt, can't you just figure the size with a die (assuming you have a set)?

 

here in lying the problem. I'm going to take it with me down to Lowes, and use their thread gauge.