Originally Posted by atikovi
If a headlight, tail light or turn signal light bulb burns out, do you replace the other? Of course not.
Yeah - actually, I do. Every time, since the life is similar. If I don't, then I'm doing the other side soon after.
However, bulb burnout and bolt damage are completely different.
IF a bolt is in good shape, keep it. IF it's damaged, replace it. Damage on one bolt isn't from wearing out, like a bulb, it's damage, plain and simple.
Replace the damaged part, examine the other parts carefully, and re-use the ones that are OK.
Now, I have replaced an entire set of bolts, not because one is damaged, but because they were all starting to rust, adn a complete set of bolts was actually reasonable in price. I can get one bolt for a Volvo for $12. I can get a set of 20 bolts for $100. So, I replaced all of them, but it was primarily cosmetic.