I accidentally over tightened the top of the strut stud (under the hood) with a hand tool and all of a sudden the stud snapped. The dealership says I DO NOT need to replace the strut, just purchase the "pin" and "nut". I purchased the parts today for about $4 on a MINI Parts website. It will take about a week to come in. Any ideas on a temporary fix? The dealer recommends I do not drive the car but it is my only car. Can I go to auto zone or home depot and fit a bolt through the strut and the frame?
Please help! Thanks!

 

I assume are you talking about one of 3 camber plate bolts (item #12 below):
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...77&hg=31&fg=10

If so, replacing it may require getting the strut tower out of the car to get clear access to the bottom end of the camber plate to insert the replacement bolt. You may, or may not, need to take the strut tower apart to gain access to the bottom of the camber plate.

If any of this sounds a bit scary, find an independent shop that will do it for you. If it all sound familiar, it will be a one evening/2 beer job.

Any competent independent will be able to work on a standard McPherson strut (which is what Mini's have). They should also have the right sized bolts in stock, so you won't have to wait for the Mini special order to arrive.

HTH,
a