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Pins fallen out of the Key
Pins fallen out of the Key
On this type of locking wheel nut key there should be 4 “pins” that engage with the locking wheel bolt. In the image on the left, the pins are missing, rendering the key useless and preventing it from engaging with the bolt correctly. Continuing to force a damaged key can often damage locking wheel bolt further.
Collar collapsed
Collar collapsed
If the “collar” on this type of locking wheel bolt has collapsed, it will no longer engage with the key correctly. The key may still turn, but the locking wheel bolt itself will just spin and not undo. This often happens after a damaged key has been forced. If this has happened to your locking wheel bolts, they will most likely require professional removal
Don't hammer a socket over it:
Don't hammer a socket over it:
This style uses a press-fit collar that engages with the locking key. If the collar is damaged, collapsed or pushed down, it will just spin and the key will no longer engage the bolt properly.
Don't Force It:
Attempting to use a broken or damaged locking wheel nut key can push the collar down on this type of bolt, even when the bolt itself isn’t damaged. Once the collar collapses, the key will just spin and the wheel bolt may no longer engage correctly
Avoid drilling methods:
Avoid drilling methods:
Locking wheel bolts are generally made from much harder steel than mild steel. Poor drilling technique or the wrong tools can cause the bolt to work harden, making removal almost impossible without professional grade tooling.
Chisels:
Hammering a chisel into the bolt might seem like a good idea, but the chance of successful removal is low and the risk of damaging the alloy is very high. Once the wheel is gouged, the repair can end up costing far more than the original problem.
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