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The tire iron, or lug wrench, also doubles as a lug wrench key, and is specifically designed to help remove the lug nuts on the tire. Using the lug nut key correctly can accelerate the tire changing process.
How does a lug nut key work?
In order to install or remove the lug nuts use the key in the center of the package. Insert the key into the socket that you use to take off all the other normal lug nuts and then use the socket wrench to install or remove the wheel lock lug nuts. Only one wheel lock per wheel is needed.
What do I do if I lost my lug nut key?
Purchase a new key. This is sometimes the easiest option although it can sometimes be expensive. However if you’d like to use the original locking wheel nut set you’ll need to buy a new locking wheel nut key. Each key comes with a code so you can order a replacement from the vehicle manufacturer.
What does a lug nut lock key look like?
What does a locking wheel nut key look like? Locking wheel nut keys all look similar however they are not “one size fits all”. They consist of one end which is shaped like a cylinder and the other end is the shape of a hexagon.
Do all cars have a lug nut key?
Are locking wheel nut keys unique to each car? The short answer is ‘yes’. Or, at least, they’re unique to the locking wheel nut set that was provided by your manufacturer when your car was making its way along the production line.
Can you buy a wheel lock key?
Many cars have wheel locks supplied by the company called McGard. They sell online, and you can even order the key only, as long as you have the key code, which is usually stored with the set as an ID card. It might also be in your owner’s manual pouch.
How do I know if my car has a locking lug nut?
If you’re unsure whether you have locking wheel nuts, try the following: Inspect your wheel nuts — if one has a pattern then this is a locking wheel nut. Check to see if any of your wheel nuts have a plastic cover (which gives all the wheel nuts a uniform appearance) – if they do then this will be the locking nut.
How much is a wheel lock key?
You may need to order a new one from the dealer or manufacturer. To do this, you will need the code that corresponds with your particular key. Generally, you can expect to pay between $20 and $120 per set. If your wheel locks came with the vehicle, you can usually find the key code in the owner’s manual.
Does AAA have lug nut keys?
AAA’s Mobile Battery Service offers free battery testing to AAA members. AAA recommends storing the locking lug nut key with the spare tire or in the glove box.
Are lug nuts universal?
There are actually a variety of different lug nuts and lug bolts out there. Each of the eight different types have their own distinguishing features. Many of these you’ll rarely encounter outside of a busy commercial garage.
Where can I get a lug nut key?
The key usually comes in a set which can be found with the spare tire or sometimes in the glove box. If the key is lost or gets broken somehow, the dealer or manufacturer can make a new one. It’s a good idea to always make sure that you get your wheel lock key back whenever your wheels are removed.
How many different lug nut keys are there?
8 different hex key sizes McGard is the only manufacturer to offer 8 different key hex sizes to match the vehicle’s original equipment lug wrench. You will appreciate this important feature when you have to change a flat tire along the roadside.
What is the purpose of a lock nut?
Lock nuts are an internally threaded fastener that possesses locking capabilities either by itself or in concert with another component. By design, lock nuts are engineered to resist loosening when subjected to vibration or torque.
Are all locking lug nuts the same?
Each set of locking wheel nuts has a unique indent with a key that matches up with the pattern. The only time the wheel lug nuts can be removed is when the key with the correct pattern is inserted. However, in the event of losing the key, there is a way to remove the locking lug nut.
Are lock nuts worth it?
they make it slightly harder than the next car, which decreases the odds someone targets you. Locking lug nuts won’t make the wheels theft proof but it might be a good investment if you are or will be parking on a theft prone area. It’s only a waste of money until some decideds to do a 5 finger discount on your wheels.
Do new cars have locking wheel nuts?
Most new cars now come with locking wheel nuts or bolts as standard.
How much does a lug nut cost?
The average cost for wheel lug stud replacement is between $73 and $89. Labor costs are estimated between $61 and $77 while parts are priced at $12. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
