When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I just bought this car and didn't realize the lug nuts have been changed. One is a security nut and I don't have the socket for it. I don't have a clue what brand they are. It appears to be smooth on the top but like a regular nut further down. Like a deep socket might work.
I don't need to take them off now, just preparing for the future. Any ideas?
I have a special socket that I remove locking nuts when there is no correct socket. I bought it from a Cornwell tool dealer. It has reverse theads and tightens in the reverse direction. If you drive up to NJ I'll remove them free for you.
Do your locking lug nuts resemble these?
If they do, you probably have a set of Gorilla's. You might try contacting them... http://www.gorilla-auto.com/# and see if they have any suggestions to keep you from destroying them. If you have the lock number, they can send you a new removal socket.
Check your center rear compartment, forward left side ledge, under the edge of the carpet, it might be there. Otherwise, just use an old deep socket that doesn't quite fit over the lug and pound it on. Then just remove it. Hopefully the socket will last for all four before it splits.
You can buy Craftsman sockets that have the reverse threads in them, 4-5 different sizes in a set, I used them on my C5, and just recently on my GN that I lost the key for. IMO, once you use that socket and see how easily the locks come off, they aren't worth the bother. It took less than 2 minutes for each lock.
The key for the lock my be underneath the carpet between the center compartment and one of the side compartments, there is a small indentation where it goes.
Wheel locks are a PITA. There is an easy way to remove them without the special key. Find a 6 point socket that is sligntly smaller than the lug size. Use a 6 point because walls are thicker - stronger than a 12 point. Drive it on with a hammer and remove the lug using a breaker bar - not an air impact gun. Take the socket over to your vice and drive the lug out using a long drift punch. Repeat process 4 times and then go to dealer for a new set of lugs.
Have you inquired about the key from the dealer or previous owner? Most dealerships have a detailing process in which the worker simply steals anything not secured. I experienced this with CD changer cartridges in a previous car, floor mats in another. If the car came from an individual, he might have hidden the key or removed it w/o thinking you might have a need for it someday.
I went to my local Discount Tire and they removed all 4 locking lugs and replaced them, all for $20. I read a magazine and had some coffee while they did the work.
Do your locking lug nuts resemble these?
If they do, you probably have a set of Gorilla's. You might try contacting them... http://www.gorilla-auto.com/# and see if they have any suggestions to keep you from destroying them. If you have the lock number, they can send you a new removal socket.
Check your center rear compartment, forward left side ledge, under the edge of the carpet, it might be there. Otherwise, just use an old deep socket that doesn't quite fit over the lug and pound it on. Then just remove it. Hopefully the socket will last for all four before it splits.
Good luck... GUSTO
You know, I found a tool that looks a lot like the black one pictured here. I found the tool in my coupe, inside the car, in the rear, in the rear compartment area, between the left and center removable floor compartment doors, near where the CD changer hides.
I don't need it cause mine doesn't have the locking nuts, so I took it out, too much weight !!