What can I do if Ive lost my locking wheel nut?

If you've lost your locking wheel nut, don't panic. There are several steps you can take to resolve the issue and get back on the road safely. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of dealing with a missing locking wheel nut.

Identify the Locking Wheel Nut

Locking wheel nuts are a security feature used by many car manufacturers to prevent theft of the wheels. They are designed to be removed only with a specialized tool that comes with the vehicle. If you've lost this tool, you'll need to find a replacement or alternative solution.

Obtain a Replacement Locking Wheel Nut

• Contact your car's manufacturer or a local dealership to purchase a replacement locking wheel nut. They should be able to provide you with the correct part for your vehicle.


• If the manufacturer no longer offers the specific locking wheel nut you need, you may be able to find a universal replacement at an auto parts store or online.


• Ensure that the replacement locking wheel nut is compatible with your vehicle's wheel and hub design.

Replacing the lost locking wheel nut is the best long-term solution to ensure the security of your wheels.

Use a Locking Wheel Nut Removal Tool

If you don't have access to a replacement locking wheel nut, you can try using a locking wheel nut removal tool. These specialized tools are designed to grip and remove the locking wheel nut without the original tool.

Consider Alternative Solutions

If you're unable to obtain a replacement locking wheel nut or use a removal tool, you have a few other options:

• Contact a local mechanic or tire shop and ask if they can remove the locking wheel nut for you.


• As a temporary measure, you can try using a pair of pliers or a lug wrench to loosen the locking wheel nut, but this may damage the nut or the wheel.


• In some cases, you may be able to remove the entire wheel and take it to a shop for professional assistance.

Remember, the safest and most secure solution is to replace the lost locking wheel nut with a new one that is compatible with your vehicle.

How do you get a locking wheel nut off without the key?

You can remove a locking wheel nut without the key by hammering a 12-point socket that is slightly smaller than the nut onto it, or by using a specialized lug nut remover/extractor tool kit. For a more professional approach, a tire shop can use their tools to remove the nut, and a last resort for those with a welder is to weld a nut onto the locking nut. 
This video demonstrates how to remove a locking wheel nut using a 12-point socket: 1mWorld MechanicsYouTube · Nov 28, 2016
Method 1: Using a 12-point socket

• Select a 12-point socket that is slightly smaller than the outside of the locking nut so it can grip the nut tightly. 
• Use a hammer to pound the socket onto the locking nut until it is fully seated. 
• Attach a breaker bar or wrench and use it to turn the socket, which should now grip and remove the nut. 
• After removal, you can often use a vise and hammer to separate the socket from the nut. 

Method 2: Using a lug nut remover/extractor tool

• Purchase a lug nut remover or extractor set, which contains sockets with internal reverse threads or hardened ridges. 
• Place a centering guide (if included) and drill a hole into the center of the locking nut. 
• Insert the extractor tool into the hole and use a hammer to tap it in until it bites into the nut. 
• Use a breaker bar or ratchet to turn the extractor tool and remove the nut. 

This video demonstrates how to remove a locking wheel nut using a lug nut extractor tool: 1mChrisFixYouTube · Aug 13, 2023
Method 3: Go to a professional

• Take your vehicle to a reputable tire shop, where they have specialized tools to remove locking wheel nuts. 
• This is often the safest option to avoid damaging the wheel. 

You can watch this video to see a professional technician removing a locking wheel nut: 58sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Feb 9, 2017
Method 4: Welding (as a last resort) 

• This method is only recommended if you have access to a welder. 
• Weld a regular nut directly onto the locking wheel nut. 
• Once the weld has cooled, use a wrench to turn the new nut and remove the locking nut. 

How do I find my locking wheel nut code?

Each key comes with a code so you can order a replacement from the vehicle manufacturer. The only place to find this code is on the locking wheel nut storage box or plastic storage bag – which is a problem if that's missing too!

What if I've lost my locking wheel nut?

However, if you are faced with this predicament, there are a few options to try. Visit your local dealership who may be able to provide a spare key, or use a master key to remove the nut. Visiting your local tyre garage who may be able to drill or cut the nut off.

What do you do if you lose your locking lug nut key?

If you've lost your lug nut key, you can try to get a replacement from the dealership using the key code, or have a mechanic or tire shop remove the lock for you. You can also attempt to remove the lock yourself by hammering a 12-point socket onto it, or by using a specialized lug nut removal tool. 
This video demonstrates how to remove a locking lug nut using a specialized tool: 1mChrisFixYouTube · Aug 13, 2023
Professional help

• Dealership: Take your vehicle to the dealership. They may have master keys or be able to order a replacement key based on your car's information. 
• Mechanic or tire shop: A professional can remove the locking lug nut using specialized tools or methods that won't damage your wheel. 

DIY removal methods

• Hammer a socket: Select a 12-point socket that is a snug fit for the lug nut. Hammer it on securely and then use a breaker bar or impact wrench to turn and loosen it. 
• Use a lug nut removal tool: Purchase a specialized lug nut removal kit, which often includes a centering guide and an extractor bit. You'll drill a hole into the nut and then use the extractor to remove it. 

This video demonstrates how to remove a locking lug nut by hammering on a 12-point socket: 57sEyeOnAimanYouTube · Sep 5, 2019
How to get a replacement key

• Check for a key code: Look for a code on the key's original packaging or in your vehicle's documentation. Some manufacturers use a code to create a replacement key. 
• Order from the manufacturer or a parts retailer: Once you have the code, you can order a replacement key online from sites like Amazon or from the car parts section of a retailer like Discount Tire.