Wheel locks are specially designed lug nuts with unique patterns that require a matching key to remove. They are an effective way to prevent wheel theft, but they can also become a hurdle during routine maintenance if your automotive technician doesn’t know where the key is stored.
Telling your service advisor when dropping off your vehicle is the best time to relay this important information. If the technician can’t find your wheel lock key, then they will have to search your vehicle or ask for your help to find them. This delays the service process and might push back the timeline for completing your maintenance or repair.
If the key is lost, the shop may need to use specialized tools to remove the locks, which can result in extra labor fees. In some cases, you might even need to purchase a new set of wheel locks.
If you don’t know where your key locks are, here are a few places to look:
- In the glove compartment
- In the center console
- In the trunk by the spare tire or inside compartments
- In the door pocket or cup holders
- Under the seat
- In a dedicated pouch or bag
- Attached to the lug wrench
You can always refer to your owner’s manual to find where it was originally placed.
Knowing where your wheel locks are is a small but impactful step in ensuring a stress-free appointment.
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