They are considered a factory accessory that is installed by request of the client (often within an accessory protection type of package,) purchased after point-of-sale, or commonly wheel locks are installed during the Pre-Delivery Inspection at the dealership. There are usually about 30 different keys per manufacturer.”ĭan: “Wheel locks are typically offered by all manufacturers. The “Key” is typically stored in some form of a plastic case or bag to keep it from causing noise while driving.” Q: Are all wheel locks the same?Ī: Claire: “ There are many many different keys to many different locks, even between separate wheel lock accessory kits from dealers, they can have different keys in each. They can be identified by the unique pattern on the face of the lock or the unique shape of the lock itself compared to the traditional lug nuts. Each one of the four locks is installed on each of the wheels, replacing a traditional lug nut. Q: What do wheel locks look like?Ī: Dan: “Wheel locks are sold in a set of four locks and one key. We asked our expert Parts Manager, Claire, and Service Director, Dan, their thoughts on wheel locks, including where you might normally find them, and where to keep them during your daily drive.

Your dealer should tell you whether wheel locks are already installed on, or are available with, your car. While these can be effective anti-theft devices, it’s important to be aware of what they are, and where they are located in your vehicle, to make routine service (like brake inspections) or emergency repair visits easier–and possibly less expensive. To combat this problem, many manufacturers and dealerships have increasingly turned to installing locking lug nuts or “wheel locks,” which require an especially fitted tool to remove your tires and rims. With some makes, any common socket wrench can remove the lug nuts that secure an individual tire to a vehicle, making them an easy target. Stealing rims and tires can be a quick and profitable proposition for thieves, easily netting more than $1,000 or more for a set of four tires. While instances of catalytic converter theft have been on the rise, one of the most common crimes related to vehicles is tire theft.

Removing wheel lock