C5 wheel lock is missing, HELPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP

Ross78 · 10-04-2002, 11:53 AM

I was getting ready to remove my wheels and I noticed the car has wheel locks. I looked in the 1999 manual and it states for a vert the key is under the left hand compartment cover in an indentation in the frame rail.
Well guess what, it's NOT there. I looked in the glove box, console, and the other 2 compartments.

Does anyone know if I can buy one?

Is there anyway to remove the wheel with something other than the official key? I am going to put chrome wheels on the car and I don't need the stock lugs anyway.

mozin · 10-04-2002, 03:10 PM

I would look again very carefully for that key. The little storage space is under the floor mat at the top of the divider between the left compartment and the center compartment. The key could have slipped forward and you might need to work your way under the mat to reach far enough forward to feel the key.

If you need to remove the locking lugs without the key I am told the socket with the series of metal rods inside will work. These sockets should be available at lots of stores including stores that carry items advertised on TV. I think Sears also has them.

Another option is to take an ordinary socket that is slightly small for the lug nut and hammer it onto the locking lug. I have not tried this but I have seen it written on the CF many times. Once the socket is tight on the lock apparently the socket wrench will work to remove the lug nut.

Without the GM number for your specific locks I doubt GM will be of much help.

CHJ In Virginia · 10-05-2002, 01:04 AM

Just about any good tire shop can get them off for you. If it's a DIY - get a six point socket ( not 12 point - 6 is stronger ) and a ball peen hammer. The socket has to be slightly smaller ( 1 mm is fine ) than the locking nut. Carefully drive the socket on the locker and then use a breaker bar or long ratchet to break it loose - no impact guns. Once loose, place socket in vice and use a drift punch to drive nut out of socket. Repeat then go buy some standard lugs and don't worry about the problem again. If you want another set of lockers I have a factory set and 2 keys that I will let go cheap. :cheers:

Ross78 · 10-05-2002, 01:15 AM

6 point 21MM socket worked great!!!

Used a 2lb hammer to pound it on. The 1st one took 5 minutes, others were done in 2 minutes. Also used a breaker bar on the socket to loosen the nuts. I used a large bolt to remove the lug from the socket. Craftsman socket held up well, if it didn't replacements are free anyway.

It was a little un-nerving at first, but I HATE taking the car to someone whenever I can help it.

Thank you to all that responded!