ᐅ What should I do if screws for the Ikea PAX system are missing or damaged?

Created on: 11 Aug 2022 18:23
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ku_klo
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ku_klo
11 Aug 2022 18:23
Hello everyone, I just assembled my IKEA PAX wardrobe and noticed that some screws are either missing or damaged. I’m wondering what the best approach is to replace the missing or broken screws in such a case. Should I contact IKEA directly, order replacement parts online, or are alternative screws from a hardware store a good option? I don’t want to make any mistakes, especially since PAX needs to be quite stable, and I don’t want the structure to be compromised. Does anyone have experience or advice on how to find suitable replacement screws and the best way to proceed if something is missing or damaged?
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derrick34
11 Aug 2022 18:31
It is best to contact IKEA customer service. They usually send replacement parts free of charge. Hardware store screws might fit, but they do not always fit perfectly and can affect stability.
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teyosef
11 Aug 2022 18:47
I have done this many times. Here is my tip:
- First, check exactly which screws are missing or damaged.
- Then request replacement parts from IKEA using the article number of the PAX system. They usually provide a list of the required screws.
- If you need replacements immediately, you can look for screws with the same dimensions at a hardware store, but be careful: incorrect thread types or lengths can affect stability.
- When replacing screws, always make sure they are tightened securely without over-tightening.
This way, you can avoid problems with the assembly later on.
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vincent46
11 Aug 2022 19:09
I had a similar experience and was really frustrated when I realized only after assembly that screws were missing. It can be very annoying! I called IKEA, and they were very helpful, offering me the option to get replacements free of charge. Just be careful not to buy random screws from a hardware store – I tried that, and the quality wasn’t ideal. In the end, it gave me peace of mind to use the original parts. Good luck, and don’t lose heart!
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ku_klo
11 Aug 2022 19:22
teyosef schrieb:
I’ve done this many times. Here’s my advice:
- First, check exactly which screws are missing or damaged.
- Then request replacement parts from IKEA using the article number of the PAX system.

Thanks for the clear advice, that makes sense. I was wondering if I would need a detailed list to order the replacement parts. The note about over-tightening the screws sounds important, as I don’t want to damage the wood. Does anyone have tips on how to best avoid this when screwing?
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teyosef
11 Aug 2022 19:45
ku_klo schrieb:
Does anyone have tips on how to best avoid this when screwing?

Gladly! When tightening:
- Insert the screw straight and turn it in slowly.
- Once you feel resistance, avoid applying too much force.
- If possible, use a torque wrench (rarely necessary, but ideal).
- For wood or MDF materials, screws should not be driven in too deep to prevent damage.
- It’s better to start tightening by hand and only use a cordless drill at the end.
This approach protects the material and ensures a secure hold.