How to Remove Wheel Locks when You Loose Your Key

Working in the automotive field for over 25 years I have run across plenty of vehicles that have wheel locks installed. Most of the time the customer will be able to hand me the wheel lock key and other times they do not have a clue who used it last. They have wheel lock key removers available at any auto parts store. But why buy something you will only use maybe a couple times? The guys in the shop revealed a very easy way of removing wheel locks without damaging the wheel studs. I will go over this procedure in this article on how to remove a wheel lock.

The tools required are as follows: ½ inch drive breaker bar, ½ inch deep well socket set and a hammer.

I put this procedure to the test while I watched four grown men for three hours trying to remove their wheel. I kind of chuckled and watched them swear and cuss up and down. I finally saw that they gave up on their attempt to remove their wheels. I walked over and asked them if they cared to bet me a six pack that I can show them how to remove that wheel lock in less than twenty seconds. They took me up on my bet as they watched in total silence. Here is how it is completed.

I looked over their assortment of tools and found a ½ inch deep well socket and slid it over the wheel lock. The socket has to be able to clear the wheel stud and be able to fit over the wheel lock with the force of a hammer. Once the socket is beat down to a nice tight grip around the wheel lock you use your half inch breaker bar and apply enough pressure to break it loose. That's it! Then you proceed around the car and remove the remaining wheel locks the same way.

Keep in mind I do not approve of this being used for the wrong purpose but when ever you or you know someone who has misplaced their wheel lock key, have them read this article. As I mentioned before in this article you will not believe how many people have either lost or misplaced their wheel lock key. Auto mechanics have to be able to remove the customers wheels very fast to keep them happy.

For more car care tips please visit my blog at, "Auto Repair Savings And My Special Links."