Everything You Need to Know About Wheel Lock Keys

Know everything there is to know about wheel locks and keys.

There’s nothing quite as exciting as buying a new car! It’s not something one can do on a whim or without a thought, and for sure, most would spend lots of time before picking a car that is perfect for them.

And because of that, for many drivers, it’s a top priority to protect their new acquisition from theft. One of the many solutions that drivers often turn to is wheel locks. Unfortunately, wheel locks can cause more harm than good for drivers who are not familiar with them.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about wheel lock keys, including what they are, how they work, and when they are necessary.

What is a Wheel Lock Key?

A wheel lock is a redesigned lug nut for tires that contains a theft-deterring socket. It functions just like a standard lug nut except that it can only be removed with a wheel lock key. The purpose of a wheel lock key is to match the unique pattern on the wheel lock. Without a wheel lock key, it is difficult to remove the tire, rim, and wheel.

It’s essential to understand that wheel locks only protect against the theft of tires, wheels, and rims. However, they don’t protect your car from theft. Many people confuse wheel locks with wheel chock locks and wheel lock clamps, which act as a tire “boot” to prevent vehicle theft.

The Wheel Locks History

Invented by McGard, wheel locks and wheel lock keys started existing in the early 1960s when wheel, rim, and tire theft were rampant. To protect their car lots, dealers often installed one wheel lock on each tire. Unfortunately, more often than not, cars are sold without the wheel lock key that’s needed to change, replace, or rotate tires. This results in many drivers stuck to their dealership just to avail tire services.

Thankfully, tire, wheel, and rim theft is no longer as common. However, if tire theft does happen, this is because most criminals equip themselves with the right tools, such as a specialty wheel lock socket, to pull off the crime.

What if You Lose the Key to Your Wheel Lock?

If you lose your wheel lock key, there are a few options available to you. If you have the code for your key, a dealer or manufacturer can replace the key. Knowing the brand, make, or model of your wheel lock can help you order a replacement key online. If you can’t replace the key, you will need to have your wheel lock removed by a professional.

Mechanics typically use special sockets that dig into the metal to grip the outside of the wheel lock and twist it off. However, removing a wheel lock without a key can be challenging, and inexperienced professionals can easily damage the wheel. It’s important to bring your vehicle to a trustworthy mechanic in such situations.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Wheel Locks

There are both advantages and disadvantages to using wheel locks.

Advantages of wheel locks include:

• Preventing wheel theft for vehicles at high risk
• Giving peace of mind to those concerned about tire theft

Disadvantages of wheel locks include:

• Lengthening appointments like tire replacements, rim straightening, tire rotations, and rim guard installation due to the extra step of dealing with the wheel lock
• Misplaced key leading to difficulty changing a flat tire in an emergency
• Roadside assistance does not always have the right tools for wheel locks, requiring towing in the process

Wheel locks are low risk, and potential workarounds are still possible for tire thieving, making them less effective in terms of tire protection. Therefore, they may only be necessary for some drivers.

Salt Lake City Mobile Mechanic Services

At Salt Lake City Mobile Mechanic, we can help with any wheel lock key issues you may be having. Our experienced mechanics can provide expert advice on whether your vehicle needs a wheel lock or not and will assist with any lock problems you may encounter. Contact us today to get started!