Table of Contents
Wheel lock keys are special sockets that match the unique pattern on your wheel lock. Without your wheel lock key, the tire,
Rim (wheel) – Wikipedia
cannot be easily removed. Wheel locks only protect against the theft of tires, wheels, and rims. They do not protect against car theft.
What is a wheel 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.
Where can I find my wheel lock 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 do you know if your car has a wheel lock?
Do all cars have locking wheel nuts? 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.
Can you get wheel locks off without the key?
Pick up a locking lug nut remover set (from an auto parts store or $20 from amazon.com) and pop the socket onto your ratchet or impact wrench. The reverse spiral teeth dig into the lug nut and spin it off. Of course, the spiral will ruin the lug nut, but at least you’ll get it off without all those nasty tools.
Can you change a tire without a wheel lock?
No, wheel locks are not necessary; regular OEM nuts or bolts will do the job as long as they are all in place, fit properly to the rims and torqued to specs. If in doubt, ask your mechanic or check the owner’s manual.
Are wheel lock keys universal?
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.
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 wheel locks effective?
Wheel locks are a cost-effective anti-theft measure that will give you peace of mind knowing that thieves cannot easily steal your wheels. Save money. With a set of premium wheels often costing well over $3,000, investing in a nice set of wheel locks is cheap insurance for wheel theft.
Are all tire key locks the same?
Regardless of whether your car has factory or aftermarket alloys, many of them(the more expensive ones at least) will be sold with some form of locking wheel bolts or nuts. Basically one of the 4 or 5 bolts on the wheel will have a unique pattern on it that a standard socket will not fit.
Can you replace a wheel lock 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.
How much does a wheel lock key cost?
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.
What happens if I lost my wheel lock key?
One option is to call your mechanic or any local auto repair shop. Many mechanics have special tools (sockets) for this purpose, so they might be able to remove the wheel locks without a key. A dealer should also be able to remove the wheel lock nut if it’s broken or stripped.
