Wheel locks
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 45
Likes: 47
Wheel locks
Bought a car from out of state, it's got wheel locks on it and of course they cannot find the key. Would the local dealership be better able to handle this or will it be the same process as any garden variety tire center? Thanks.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 2,058
Likes: 937
From: near philly
I had the same issue once with a wheel lock and I ended up having to go to the dealer (nissan in this case) where they have a gigantic "master set" of probably 50 various styles.
I called tons of places and they all said they don't have those things, only a dealer.
I called tons of places and they all said they don't have those things, only a dealer.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 2,764
Likes: 1,017
From: MOUNTAIN HOME Arkansas
If they aren’t high end hard to defeat types then a dealer or tire shop may be able to get them off. You don’t want to destroy them trying to remove since that would create an even bigger problem. Have you checked the small cubby storage box in the cargo area-driver side? There’s also a storage area in cargo space on passenger side beneath the carpet where battery is that is for storing a tow ring (which doesn’t come with cars in US). It has a cutout that would be ideal for wheel lock key. Good luck 👍
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 1,519
Likes: 212
From: FL
Were they the factory option the "key" is tied to the VIN and a dealer can get it. If aftermarket. you may be able to take a picture or two if the dealer does not have the correct "key" to get one off to send to the manufacturer to get the "key" Some hammer a socket on the lug nut and remove that way as a last resort (like thieves do). .
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Racer
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 251
Likes: 125
From: Beavercreek, OH
If all else fails you can find a shop that has the reverse threaded removal sockets.
It's like a socket but has reverse threads inside that cut/dig into the outside of the lug as it removes it.
You won't be able to reuse the lock lug but you'll have it off.
Had to buy a set for home use when I lost a key for a car was selling.
Also see if perhaps the previous owner stored the lock lug key code card in the owners manual.
If so order a replacement.
It's like a socket but has reverse threads inside that cut/dig into the outside of the lug as it removes it.
You won't be able to reuse the lock lug but you'll have it off.
Had to buy a set for home use when I lost a key for a car was selling.
Also see if perhaps the previous owner stored the lock lug key code card in the owners manual.
If so order a replacement.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2022
Posts: 1,220
Likes: 734
From: Phoenix, Arizona
I'd also check in any paperwork you received with the car or in the glove box / owner's manual envelope. If they're aftermarket a key card usually comes with them you can use to order a replacement. Maybe they put it there?
Safety Car
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 3,680
Likes: 1,040
I remember back in the day on an old Mustang I had the key lug nut was missing it's key.. the tire shop used a socket from a socket wrench set, hammering it over and on to the lock-nut and wrenching it off... Worked!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2000
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From: Far NW 'burbs of Chicago
St. Jude Donor '13
^^^^^
That's the quick and dirty way to do it. Of course, you destroy the lock but usually no damage to the wheel. If you only have 4 locks instead of 20, I'd go for it if I couldn't find the key.
Use a 12 pt socket, just large enough to start slipping onto the tapered outside of the lock. Might need to use a metric to get the best fit. Use a deep socket, extension, or something so you don't hit the wheel with the hammer. May need to buy more than 1 socket, maybe 4, if it gets ruined by the hammering.
That's the quick and dirty way to do it. Of course, you destroy the lock but usually no damage to the wheel. If you only have 4 locks instead of 20, I'd go for it if I couldn't find the key.
Use a 12 pt socket, just large enough to start slipping onto the tapered outside of the lock. Might need to use a metric to get the best fit. Use a deep socket, extension, or something so you don't hit the wheel with the hammer. May need to buy more than 1 socket, maybe 4, if it gets ruined by the hammering.
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Hopefully you are able to either find the key or the card which has the key number on it. If not, try either your dealer or a high end wheel shop.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2015
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From: Toronto