Dropped bolt/screw

I was replacing the head unit in my 2006 DC, and dropped one of the mounting screws in the center console, I’m not sure where it dropped and I couldn’t see it. What should I do?

 

Another question is it a serious problem or is it just a possible rattling annoyance?

 

Most likely possible rattle. Slight chance it could lodge in the HVAC controls. Use a telescoping mirror and magnet and you may find it. If not drive on.

 

It might rattle depending on where it fell, or it might not... If your radio is secure and not loose, then I wouldn't worry about it. If it has a little play then take one of your other screws to the hardware store and find another screw that will work.

I had a front wheel drive car years ago (with a V6), and you had to undo the motor mounts and rock the engine forward to change spark plugs. I managed to drop a spark plug down behind the engine, and I couldn't find it anywhere. Ended up buying a replacement plug and moving on... Years later, when doing some other work, I found the spark plug. Somehow it stayed put for several years, and it never made a noise or rattled. Point being, your lost screw may never bother you.

Just think about how many 10mm sockets have been lost in similar situations

 

My concern would be the MIA screw fouling a moving mechanism if there are any. If you see other objects like coins, french fries, paperclips or 10mm sockets, button it up and drive it.

 

Happen to me, I have lost 2 10mm bolts back there. Check the hvac gear right under it and keep it pushing

 

And hope it doesn't get caught in a gear. Because if it does, the plastic gear will break before that bolt does...

 

Yeah, had had a an auxiliary cord from the radio I didn’t zip tie hanging down and almost busted a gear

 

Take it for a spin down a dirt road. See if it falls out the bottom. That’s what happened to me in my last truck. Rolled right out a week later.