Dropped Torx Bolt into engine bay

[c13v31and]

I was working on replacing the front grills and the torx bit came off the screwdriver and fell into the engine bay. I’ve marked an image of the bolt I was working on and the general direction I think the bit would have gone.

I tried to use a magnetic stick but since i haven’t been able to see the bit I haven’t had any luck. Would the next step be to jack the car up and remove the belly pan? I’ve seen this suggestion elsewhere but am having trouble finding instructions on how to remove the belly pan or anything else that would help to retrieve the bit.

Also, how risky is it to start the engine? In the event that I need to take the car somewhere to have mechanics look at it. Any help would be greatly appreciated, as I am very new to all this and am feeling a bit discouraged at the moment.

[c13v31and]

Drove the car a few blocks and the car drove fine and I didn’t hear anything rattling around. I’ll try to jack it up this weekend and see if I can poke around underneath - any tips on navigating the belly of the vehicle would be great.

[ron_s55]

It's about 8 16mm bolts to remove the pan. You don't need to remove anything else to remove it.

I've dropped bolts and a ratchet down there before.

One time I was able to get a dropped bolt by swiping my hand at the edge, inward of the tire. It was sitting on a plastic cover piece. I didn't even have to lift the car.

It might fall out onto the road if you drive it.

[ron_s55]

here's a pic of the underside https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...68&postcount=7

[b_w.]

There is nothing to worry about on that side of the motor when the intakes and covers are in place.

[c13v31and]

Originally Posted by ron_s55

here's a pic of the underside https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...68&postcount=7

Thanks - I ended up taking out the shield under the car and poking around with a magnetic stick on the underside for a couple hours, couldn’t hear any rattling or anything so I gave up.

I’ve driven it around a bit now and no issues, so I think I’ve made my peace with it for now