Thank you for this video! Our friend had a Lexus with a slashed front tire that we needed to get replaced as soon as possible. A trip to the automotive store to get a 12 point 19 mm socket was the perfect size. Worked exactly as you showed. Thank you.
Thank you so much Sir! I've wasted two 21 mm extractor sockets (the ones from these lug nut remover sets) and was not able to remove the last locking lug nut from a Toyota Rav4. With a 19 mm 12 point socket it worked immediately. Thanks again!
Awesome. I bought a 21 mm extractor socket that was on sale at Walmart and a 19mm impact socket using your technique. Both worked, both were a one time use - stuck nuts. Will order a couple more cheaper 19mm for the other two wheels. 'you da man'
Worked perfectly. After purchasing two sepererate special lug nut extractor socket kits - that did not work, I found this video. Likely saved myself likely 3-4 house payments worth by being able to avoid going to the Lexus dealership.
Hi MrKaaz, It’s good to know the cheap socket solution worked better for you than the special lug nut extractor kits. Avoiding a trip to the Lexus dealership is always a bonus. I’m glad you found my video helpful. Thanks for letting me, and other TH-camrs, know it worked for you too!
Thank you!!! My brother had to use this on his Lexus ES 330 because a tire shop had tightened the key too tight and and we had no way of gettin it out this helped!!!!
Hi Corychecketts, I’m glad it worked for you too! Those things are aggravating when they lock us out from working on our own vehicle! Thank you for commenting and letting me know my video helped!
Thanks a bunch. I am sick of dealing with the dealer for tire rotations on my wife's 21 highlander, so I was going to do it myself only to discover they never put the lug nut key back last time they rotated the tires. So upset with them, but hopefully I can do this and never deal with them again. Thanks
Same thing happened to me twice with the dealer forgetting to put the key back. One rainy night before I knew this trick my wife was stuck on the side of the road with a flat. I arrived and jacked the car up only to find the key was missing. What should have been a 15 min spare tire installation turned into a big problem requiring a flatbed tow. It was very frustrating and all because a mechanic at the dealership didn’t put the key back. Sorry to hear you are having a similar experience. Unfortunately this seems to be an all too common problem. Best of luck to you with removing the lock nuts. Hopefully they aren’t over torqued on and come off easily like mine did in the video.
Hey Gee Funk. Thanks for the comment! Glad the video helped! Those keys are never around when you need them. I found my key in another car almost 2 years later. Grrrrrr.
I’m glad the video helped! Yes you are right. The locks are a pain and I’m pretty sure they don’t scare away skilled thieves. Thank you for your comment!
Excellent video!! We have a G37 and I over torqued the McGard lock nut on the same front side as yours. The material from the lock came off into the lug, and the lug is now stuck on. About to go to Menards and get a 19mm, 12-point, 1/2" socket and do exactly what you did, with a breaker bar and hope it comes off as easily and we can ditch the locking lugs. I need to replace two tires before winter so the lug has GOT to come off ASAP.
Hi @SportMusicCars. Thanks for your comment! I’m glad you found my video helpful. I’m not surprised you have the same locks on a G37. Apparently the model of McGard lock in the video was installed by A LOT of different car brand dealers. I hope it comes off easily for you!
Thanks man! I just purchased a 2000 Lexus es300 with 102k and the family couldn’t find the key for their lock nuts! I have 4 of these to do as well haha.
You saved the day today. My moms key for her security lug nuts stripped out on her RX330. Tried the same method as you used but did not work until I went to home depot and bought the same exact socket you suggested. Thank you Sir! Only completed the 2 front wheels that I had to get done but I'm running back to home depot tomorrow for 2 more sockets for the back wheels.. I could not pound out the lugs from the socket but for $4 per socket.. I couldn't even buy some random kit for that price and this socket worked flawlessly.
Glad it worked for you!!! Yes, the lugs are very difficult to get back out of the sockets. I agree it’s hardly worth the effort when sockets are only $4 each. Thanks for commenting and letting me know you found the video helpful! ✌🏻
@@0utcast yeah right ! Where are you finding them ? I've been looking for an hour. I can't even navigate McGards website to find them. They sent me email welcoming me but its a pain you know where. I had to have some F'n id What and where is the ID I need? Gave up.
Problem with the key from McGard is that there are a lot of different key shapes so you have to get the right one. If Home Depot is out of the 19mm 12 point 1/2” drive sockets maybe you can find one at Lowes, Tractor SupplyCo, Harbor Freight or a local auto parts store depending on what’s nearby. I hope you get it. It’s definitely a pain!!!
I used a 4-lb sledgehammer to install the socket and there was no slippage. Worked great! Go ahead and get a socket for each locking nut. Getting the old one out is not easy.
I ordered (Amazon $28, I believe , a lock key that included 4 locking lugs, just to try and get locking lugs on the Highlander off. I don't need them but the key (if that's what you call it ) that came with vehicle was mangled/stripped. Home Depot had only three 19mm sockets. $5 roughly with the tax or $15. vs $28 for the key which I was able to cancel the order. I was able to knock one lug off of one socket so I could use it on the 4th. The one I knock off wasn't rusted as much but with a vise I should be able to get the other two and recover those sockets. I had a set of new lugs already bc old ones were getting nasty looking.
In other words you saved me $13 ( almost 50%, and I won't have to mess with the locking lugs anymore or have to look for that key tool when it comes time to do brake work or tire work, as in flat or rotate. Thanks !!!
One other thing I spent more time looking for a locking lug nut key on McGard's website and Amazon trying to find the right one vs going to home Depot for the sockets to do the job. Again I don't need a locking lug. Could maybe use a locking Catalytic Converter though.
It’s not super easy but the lug nut can be knocked out of the socket with a long punch and a vice to hold it. Yes I need locking catalytic converters too! Last winter I got hit at my shop at 3am. My cameras sent alerts and I called the police. The thieves sawed catalytic converters off two vehicles and ran off before the police could get there.
I got wheel locks because I got a Camry TRD and I kept getting compliments on the rims, I figured that meant someone might eventually try to steal them. Just making it a little bit harder is worth $30 to me
I run 5 miles a run, three times a week. Over the past three years, I have found 10 McGard lug nut keys. When I find one of these keys, I put the key into a peanut butter jar. I found one key along with the lug nut that the key fits. In my neighborhood, it is common for people to lose these keys. I am not sure why people keep losing these lug nut keys. I find most of these keys near the entrance to a local tire repair shop.
That’s very interesting. I wonder if the shop sometimes forgets to remove the key from the wheel after tightening the last lock nut. Thanks for the cool comment. Sounds like you could start a side hustle selling replacement keys. 😂
Thank you so much. Karma points for you. Go straight to heaven. Anyways since I have extra inch sizes in various sets I have, no problem to mess those ones up. 11/16 or 13/16 12 point socket. Can't remember which. That's similar to what he used I think. Can't find my vise. Crazy. Do not use a six point like I did at first. 12 point only.
Yes 12 point works best. Thanks for sharing the SAE sizes that work. Good to have lots of options when stuck trying to get a wheel off. It never happens at a convenient time!
You can take the car to the dealership with the tag receipt and order a new key or a set of security lugs. I found my lug nuts loose one night after getting off work on my Honda so I started driving my camry with the security lugs
@@fiveable I just bought a set from Amazon lmao. Well what I got going for me is that there a lot of dumb son of guns (crooks). Hopefully it detours some. I have upgraded Chevy rims but they are very nice. I registered the locks with McGard online and the extra key is $18. So I will get an extra key. Again this was indeed a great video. You should be proud man. I read 90% of the comments (I was bored lol) and you sir have bailed out a lot of people and for that I will sub. Good job. Ok I am out.
@BigOsTaco oh man I kind of stuck my foot in my mouth on that one. You are right, the locks will thwart bad actors not specializing in wheels. Not sure anything will stop a determined wheel thief. It’s good that you registered the locks and can get the spare key. So many people don’t have the original card and can’t order a replacement key. Thanks for the kind words about the video. I really do appreciate it! Some people think I’m teaching crooks tricks they don’t already know. In reality, I believe the video has helped a lot of people out with a problem and that was the intention. 😊
Thanks Rodie! I was able to knock the nuts out of the socket and reuse the same one for all 4 wheels. I added that last part about buying 4 sockets for people who might not be able to knock them out. The sockets were $3.27 each so not a big investment but it is a bit wasteful to just recycle them.
I did the 1/2" drive socket and breaker bar. Didn't work. Either the socket was not on far enuff, or of too soft material. I went back to my Pittsburgh 3/8" 19mm 12-point short socket, with a 3/8" ratchet with extender and it came off. Was going to try an impact socket next as those are harder but the 3/8" one worked so the lug is off, finally!! Have a video posted in about 15 minutes of this.
Nice job! I’m glad you found a socket that worked! Impact is a good idea but sometimes there isn’t enough clearance between the lug and the alloy wheel for the thicker walled black sockets.
@@fiveable Never actually used a black socket as only had 6 points. The first 19mm 12 point wasn't going in far enuff but the Pittsburgh one did, and it worked.
Thanks for the comment. I was able to knock the lock nuts out with a punch and a small anvil but it was a pain. I’m sure heat would have helped but it would have also taken longer. I put the bit about buying 4 sockets in at the end for people who have a hard enough time just hammering the socket on. I still have the socket I used in case I need to remove another lock nut but I wouldn’t use a cheap, stretched out, 12 point socket on anything I cared about.
Thank you..WoW.. This similar idea was actually used on my P32 AG Spacecraft Modulator bay door hatch recessed knob In 1990.. The 35.50 mm circumference security bearing knob that seats onto the mated Worm gear spline to gain access to the shuttle maintenance control panel had become sweated into place not to mention the coating of atmospheric Oxidation on the internal threading..I had applied a special blend of antiseize and anticorrosion with a heat resistant factor of up to 2000 celsius. So, were talking 40 Cm recessed shaft with 1.5227 mm if clearance ID of the Bearings surrounding entrance.. Comparitivly, about the clearance thickness of a stick of chewing gum.. So.. However, unfortunately the mother board electronics had a temperature overheating and the hatch servo wasn't responding so the only option was to manually back the worm gear shaft out via the huge Titanium rounded bearing.. But how? It's completely smooth as a chromed Socket.. pretty much impossible to get any sort of normal tool To fit and Any type of welding there, completely out of the question.. Okay, so here is the cliffs note on how Some old engineering saved the day. From an old Civil engineer Construction Socket set ..it was an SAE set but we found one with the ID that would work with some knurling turned inside and the outside she'll was very careful machined lathed to about the thickness of a stick of chewing gum. This was a meticulous and tedious chore And was pressed into the bearing via hydrologic .. also, an different torque handle for the Socket was fabricated bcse the old original one didn't have enough angle variation for the quarters we were unfortunately dealing with.. The pressed on knurled Socket was on there to stay and everything went well.. Working on space module Hardware is like nothing you'll experience anywhere else bcse, well it's not common layman civilian know how you learn under the hood of any automobile.. sorta like jet engine ANP mechanic.. it's specially aquired knowledge..
These locks sucks. Took me less than 5 minutes to remove all four. I been using these wheel locks for over 50 years on 7 different cars. Always thought they were theftproof. Thank you for the solution. I will never buy these locks again. A waste of money.
If you remove by destruction the screw . Simple tighten 2 screws both sides a bit, and use hammer and the steel bar taps directly on the screw that you want to remove about 30 seconds then you unscrew by hand .
Before you hammer on the socket, make sure your lock isn’t the newer style with a sleeve that spins around the outside. Best of luck to you with it. Thanks for commenting!
Hi there, very helpful :) how did you remove the wheel lock from The 12 point socket after? You said you used an anvil? There’s that metal washer thing that gets in the way, tried using a vice and a hammer and a bolt or chisel and it didn’t come out
I used a long punch through the 1/2’ square drive hole of the socket. I have a cheap Harbor Freight anvil and was able to put the edge of the socket on the edge of the anvil so the socket didn’t move when I hit the punch with a hammer. It took a few good hits to get the wheel lock out. I was not easy. I hope you get it.
Tire shop said leave my car all day and they will see what they can do, that means $$$$$, I went to Lowe’s, got a 19mm for $4, and it came off with some muscle. Was nervous about using a 5lb mini sledge on my wheel bolt… but wow! Worked like a dream! (This was after I ordered a used lock nut that a mechanic stripped out before he got to the 4th one. $30 wasted on eBay.) 02 RX300.
I got them at a local auto parts store but if you aren’t in a hurry you can find them cheaper online. Be sure the get the correct type for your vehicle and rims. There are few variations. You can also buy them from the parts counter at a dealership.
Thanks for the video. Pretty amazing how easily the locks are defeated. Removed 4 locks from my daughter's Altima in about 5 minutes after the key stripped. Thought I was going to have to get a new key from mcgaurd somehow. Of course, now the wheels don't have locks on them but, did they ever really have locks?
There are some improved lock versions available with spinning sides but there are bypass tricks for those too. Wheel locks are such a pain. Twice the key wasn’t returned to the car after serving. First time I didn’t know the trick in the video and changing a flat on the side of the road for my wife turned into a flatbed trip at night to drop the car off at the shop. When it happened again I decided it wasn’t worth the risk of getting stranded. Fortunately second time I was at home (the video) trying to remove the wheel to replace a serpentine belt pulley that was noisy. I’m glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting!
That’s a tough one especially if you need it off in a hurry. Maybe look on ebay for the correct key? It’s hard to tell which one is correct because small variations in the keys. I believe some people have also welded something like a large nut or bolt on the end of nut to convert it.
I wouldn’t say it’s universal and be careful if it’s a different brand or version. Some newer lock designs have a sleeve around the outside of the locknut that will spin and prevent this method from working. In case you missed it, at 0:39 seconds I explain how to determine a socket size that should work.
I haven’t had to deal with the sleeved ones. I have seen some videos where people either spot weld the sleeve or weld a nut on the end and then use the nut to remove it. Unfortunately both of those options require access to a welder.
Yikes don't throw them away. Soon as the lock is loosened but still fully on the stud is the best way to remove the lock from the socket with a good yank or smash outward on the socket
Are the locks reusable or visually damaged after extraction? I also don’t see a reason some jb weld stickweld can’t be used to make a key along with some releasing agent like oil or talcom powder.
The locks were definitely a little banged up by the punch when I removed them from the socket. There might be a way to make a key like you mentioned. I love JB weld but not sure how reliable a key made out of it would be. A new lock set with key runs about $25.
Sorry to hear that it isn't working for you. Some of the newer versions of the lock nut have a sleeve on the outside that spins to keep people from using the trick in this video. Maybe you have that type of locknut? I hope you figure out a way that works. Thank you for commenting.
You missed the last step. Find the person that put them on and slap them. I found out today that my niece had them (used car). If she had a flat she would have been stranded. If the used car dealer doesn't take them off or give us the proper socket, I'll do what you did, thanks!
I guess I'm cursed, because I've had no luck with mine. I've been trying for two days. It's the first time I've had to change one of my (used) Lexus tires. The nut was already stripped. It will not budge AT ALL. Lubricant does nothing. Impact wrench does nothing. I don't have a pneumatic, just a Milwaukee, but it's all I have. I've destroyed 3 sockets and even snapped my torque wrench and breaker bar in two. That's right. It's on there so tight I broke a freaking torque wrench. I don't have a welder. And I can't just take it to a shop. The tire will not hold air at all so I can't take it anywhere. Everything I've done has been useless. I'm just stuck with a broken torque wrench, 3 busted sockets, and a car that I can't drive.
That’s rough! Sorry to hear you are having so much trouble. I wonder if the lock nut is cross threaded on the stud or was torqued on way too tight last time it was installed. Unfortunately you might have to get a flatbed tow truck to take the car to a repair shop. I had to do that once, before I learned the trick in the video. My wife got a flat and the dealer had forgotten to put the locknut key back in the car. I was not happy about that. I hope you are able to your car fixed soon.
I have toyota prius 2005 and it's security lock nut is very old and key is just only available on Ebay but all people suggest don't buy its not good Quality and rusty so please cut the nuts and it's cost is nearly £200 .it's much upsetting .
Wow, I wouldn’t want to pay £200 either! The locks my Lexus dealer installed were made by McGuard, not Lexus/Toyota. If you can find the registration card (glove box maybe?) and the locks were made by McGuard you might be able to order a replacement key. Here is a link to the McGuard website: mcgard.com/replacement-parts-ordering-information/
Hope it worked out for you. No doubt there was lots of sweat! I have a old VW I have been working on lately. It’s so hot out I sweat the whole time. Thanks for commenting!
Stealing your own rrims That makes a lot of noise I know there’s no thieves in your neighborhood they would be caught by the police ASAP don’t take stuff that don’t belong to you
But, just remember This, if you value your Tire Or Rims..if you make it easy to remove, you're making just that much easier for the thief.. but ya, in general, security lugs suck bcse the adapter drive socket usually strips out with medium torque application.. make it any easier and then anyone with a beefy handle and ⅜" blade screwdriver can remove it..
Thank you for this video! Our friend had a Lexus with a slashed front tire that we needed to get replaced as soon as possible. A trip to the automotive store to get a 12 point 19 mm socket was the perfect size. Worked exactly as you showed. Thank you.
Thank you so much Sir! I've wasted two 21 mm extractor sockets (the ones from these lug nut remover sets) and was not able to remove the last locking lug nut from a Toyota Rav4. With a 19 mm 12 point socket it worked immediately. Thanks again!
That’s awesome! I’m glad it worked for you! Thank you for letting me know you found my video helpful!
You sir are a legend! I finally managed to steal my neighbor's new wheels. Thanks!
12 hour problem solved in 5 minutes thank you so much
That’s good news! Thanks for commenting and letting me know the video helped!
Awesome. I bought a 21 mm extractor socket that was on sale at Walmart and a 19mm impact socket using your technique. Both worked, both were a one time use - stuck nuts. Will order a couple more cheaper 19mm for the other two wheels. 'you da man'
I’m glad it worked for you too! Pretty sure one time use is still cheaper than paying a shop to do it. Thanks for the positive feedback!
Worked perfectly. After purchasing two sepererate special lug nut extractor socket kits - that did not work, I found this video. Likely saved myself likely 3-4 house payments worth by being able to avoid going to the Lexus dealership.
Hi MrKaaz, It’s good to know the cheap socket solution worked better for you than the special lug nut extractor kits. Avoiding a trip to the Lexus dealership is always a bonus. I’m glad you found my video helpful. Thanks for letting me, and other TH-camrs, know it worked for you too!
Maybe try pawn shops for that 11/16 or 13/16 common socket. Cheap way. My pawn shop has bins of sockets cheap.
That's a great idea for a source for sockets. I would rather beat up an cheap old used socket than a new one!
Awesome video!!! Saved me half a days work trying to find a key!
Thank you!!! My brother had to use this on his Lexus ES 330 because a tire shop had tightened the key too tight and and we had no way of gettin it out this helped!!!!
I’m glad the video helped! Thanks for commenting and sharing your success!
You, sir, are a godsend! I followed your steps and was able to successfully extract the anti-theft lugs off of my LS 430.
Thank you for this.
Hi Corychecketts, I’m glad it worked for you too! Those things are aggravating when they lock us out from working on our own vehicle! Thank you for commenting and letting me know my video helped!
Thank you so much!!! My husband is actually working on my Lexus rx330 so hopefully this video helps him
It was 3/4 American. 12 point. Worked for me. I have unused in inch size sockets, usually use metric on my cars.
Thanks a bunch. I am sick of dealing with the dealer for tire rotations on my wife's 21 highlander, so I was going to do it myself only to discover they never put the lug nut key back last time they rotated the tires. So upset with them, but hopefully I can do this and never deal with them again. Thanks
Same thing happened to me twice with the dealer forgetting to put the key back. One rainy night before I knew this trick my wife was stuck on the side of the road with a flat. I arrived and jacked the car up only to find the key was missing. What should have been a 15 min spare tire installation turned into a big problem requiring a flatbed tow. It was very frustrating and all because a mechanic at the dealership didn’t put the key back. Sorry to hear you are having a similar experience. Unfortunately this seems to be an all too common problem. Best of luck to you with removing the lock nuts. Hopefully they aren’t over torqued on and come off easily like mine did in the video.
@@fiveable wow, I bet bad words were said that night. 😳😂. Thanks!
Dude, I've looked EVERYWHERE for that dam key and didn't found it until I found ur video!!! The frustration you saved me!!!!!!
Hey Gee Funk. Thanks for the comment! Glad the video helped! Those keys are never around when you need them. I found my key in another car almost 2 years later. Grrrrrr.
@@fiveable can you simply replace the key or is every lock different? i just realized i dont have a key for mines and i was looking to replace it
I think there are few different keys but they look very similar.
The speck for dees nuts was on point
Had too do this and thank you! Wheel locks look good on paper but the reality of it is just a pain in the ass.
I’m glad the video helped! Yes you are right. The locks are a pain and I’m pretty sure they don’t scare away skilled thieves. Thank you for your comment!
Excellent video!! We have a G37 and I over torqued the McGard lock nut on the same front side as yours. The material from the lock came off into the lug, and the lug is now stuck on. About to go to Menards and get a 19mm, 12-point, 1/2" socket and do exactly what you did, with a breaker bar and hope it comes off as easily and we can ditch the locking lugs. I need to replace two tires before winter so the lug has GOT to come off ASAP.
Hi @SportMusicCars. Thanks for your comment! I’m glad you found my video helpful. I’m not surprised you have the same locks on a G37. Apparently the model of McGard lock in the video was installed by A LOT of different car brand dealers. I hope it comes off easily for you!
@@fiveable The 19mm socket did not work. It spins. Gonna have to try a high impact socket.
Nice! 13/16 12 point 1/2 drive works great for McGard locks on GM Equinox/Traverse/Sierra truck.
Good to know. Thanks for commenting and sharing the info for the locks on GM vehicles!
Thanks man! I just purchased a 2000 Lexus es300 with 102k and the family couldn’t find the key for their lock nuts! I have 4 of these to do as well haha.
Best of luck with it! FYI, I was able to reuse the socket on the wheel locks but it was NOT easy to punch the lock back out. Thanks for commenting! 👍🏻
You saved the day today. My moms key for her security lug nuts stripped out on her RX330. Tried the same method as you used but did not work until I went to home depot and bought the same exact socket you suggested. Thank you Sir! Only completed the 2 front wheels that I had to get done but I'm running back to home depot tomorrow for 2 more sockets for the back wheels.. I could not pound out the lugs from the socket but for $4 per socket.. I couldn't even buy some random kit for that price and this socket worked flawlessly.
Glad it worked for you!!! Yes, the lugs are very difficult to get back out of the sockets. I agree it’s hardly worth the effort when sockets are only $4 each. Thanks for commenting and letting me know you found the video helpful! ✌🏻
@@0utcast yeah right ! Where are you finding them ? I've been looking for an hour. I can't even navigate McGards website to find them. They sent me email welcoming me but its a pain you know where. I had to have some F'n id What and where is the ID I need? Gave up.
Problem with the key from McGard is that there are a lot of different key shapes so you have to get the right one. If Home Depot is out of the 19mm 12 point 1/2” drive sockets maybe you can find one at Lowes, Tractor SupplyCo, Harbor Freight or a local auto parts store depending on what’s nearby. I hope you get it. It’s definitely a pain!!!
Those lock keys are a nightmare. Too easy to lose!
I agree! And when you need them, you need them right at that moment. Not a week after ordering a replacement. Thanks for watching and commenting!
You are my hero
I used a 4-lb sledgehammer to install the socket and there was no slippage. Worked great! Go ahead and get a socket for each locking nut. Getting the old one out is not easy.
Glad the socket trick worked for you! Thanks for commenting!
“I’ll rather have my wheel off in a emergency “ 🙌🏾👍🏽👏
I ordered (Amazon $28, I believe , a lock key that included 4 locking lugs, just to try and get locking lugs on the Highlander off. I don't need them but the key (if that's what you call it ) that came with vehicle was mangled/stripped. Home Depot had only three 19mm sockets. $5 roughly with the tax or $15. vs $28 for the key which I was able to cancel the order. I was able to knock one lug off of one socket so I could use it on the 4th. The one I knock off wasn't rusted as much but with a vise I should be able to get the other two and recover those sockets. I had a set of new lugs already bc old ones were getting nasty looking.
In other words you saved me $13 ( almost 50%, and I won't have to mess with the locking lugs anymore or have to look for that key tool when it comes time to do brake work or tire work, as in flat or rotate. Thanks !!!
One other thing I spent more time looking for a locking lug nut key on McGard's website and Amazon trying to find the right one vs going to home Depot for the sockets to do the job. Again I don't need a locking lug. Could maybe use a locking Catalytic Converter though.
It’s not super easy but the lug nut can be knocked out of the socket with a long punch and a vice to hold it. Yes I need locking catalytic converters too! Last winter I got hit at my shop at 3am. My cameras sent alerts and I called the police. The thieves sawed catalytic converters off two vehicles and ran off before the police could get there.
I refuse to be defeated by 4 stupid lug nuts! Frustration level is going down. Thanks.
Hope the socket trick works for you! Thanks for commenting!
Yes sir, it worked. I had a few 3/8" drive sockets and it worked. It was a lot of stress on my ratchet though.
I got wheel locks because I got a Camry TRD and I kept getting compliments on the rims, I figured that meant someone might eventually try to steal them. Just making it a little bit harder is worth $30 to me
I’ve got to do this. Ugh! Thanks for making it look easy.
I hope it works just as easily for you too! Thanks for commenting!
I run 5 miles a run, three times a week. Over the past three years, I have found 10 McGard lug nut keys. When I find one of these keys, I put the key into a peanut butter jar. I found one key along with the lug nut that the key fits.
In my neighborhood, it is common for people to lose these keys. I am not sure why people keep losing these lug nut keys. I find most of these keys near the entrance to a local tire repair shop.
That’s very interesting. I wonder if the shop sometimes forgets to remove the key from the wheel after tightening the last lock nut. Thanks for the cool comment. Sounds like you could start a side hustle selling replacement keys. 😂
Thank you so much. Karma points for you. Go straight to heaven. Anyways since I have extra inch sizes in various sets I have, no problem to mess those ones up. 11/16 or 13/16 12 point socket. Can't remember which. That's similar to what he used I think. Can't find my vise. Crazy. Do not use a six point like I did at first. 12 point only.
Yes 12 point works best. Thanks for sharing the SAE sizes that work. Good to have lots of options when stuck trying to get a wheel off. It never happens at a convenient time!
This was the best vid I watched all day thank you sir
You can take the car to the dealership with the tag receipt and order a new key or a set of security lugs. I found my lug nuts loose one night after getting off work on my Honda so I started driving my camry with the security lugs
So much for “anti-theft” locks lmao
Great video
True! There might be better designed locks but the ones in this video really don’t offer much protection.
@@fiveable I just bought a set from Amazon lmao. Well what I got going for me is that there a lot of dumb son of guns (crooks). Hopefully it detours some. I have upgraded Chevy rims but they are very nice. I registered the locks with McGard online and the extra key is $18. So I will get an extra key.
Again this was indeed a great video. You should be proud man. I read 90% of the comments (I was bored lol) and you sir have bailed out a lot of people and for that I will sub. Good job. Ok I am out.
@BigOsTaco oh man I kind of stuck my foot in my mouth on that one. You are right, the locks will thwart bad actors not specializing in wheels. Not sure anything will stop a determined wheel thief.
It’s good that you registered the locks and can get the spare key. So many people don’t have the original card and can’t order a replacement key.
Thanks for the kind words about the video. I really do appreciate it! Some people think I’m teaching crooks tricks they don’t already know. In reality, I believe the video has helped a lot of people out with a problem and that was the intention. 😊
@ your right a wheel thieve will easily know his way around those locks. Just like a car thing knows his ways around car alarms.
WORKED LIKE A CHARM!! THANK YOU!!!
Awesome! Glad it worked for you too!
You are still da man. Thank you.
Nice, someone over tightened one of these on my Lexus and Sams Club broke two of the keys trying to get it off.
Nice job Tom! Maybe if you had a stud or bolt with the same thread pattern available, that could be used to knock the socket off the locking lug nut.
Thanks Rodie! I was able to knock the nuts out of the socket and reuse the same one for all 4 wheels. I added that last part about buying 4 sockets for people who might not be able to knock them out. The sockets were $3.27 each so not a big investment but it is a bit wasteful to just recycle them.
I did the 1/2" drive socket and breaker bar. Didn't work. Either the socket was not on far enuff, or of too soft material. I went back to my Pittsburgh 3/8" 19mm 12-point short socket, with a 3/8" ratchet with extender and it came off. Was going to try an impact socket next as those are harder but the 3/8" one worked so the lug is off, finally!! Have a video posted in about 15 minutes of this.
Nice job! I’m glad you found a socket that worked! Impact is a good idea but sometimes there isn’t enough clearance between the lug and the alloy wheel for the thicker walled black sockets.
@@fiveable Never actually used a black socket as only had 6 points. The first 19mm 12 point wasn't going in far enuff but the Pittsburgh one did, and it worked.
If u heat up the socket you should be able to knock the wheel lock loose from the socket a lot easier. Metal expands when heated.
Thanks for the comment. I was able to knock the lock nuts out with a punch and a small anvil but it was a pain. I’m sure heat would have helped but it would have also taken longer. I put the bit about buying 4 sockets in at the end for people who have a hard enough time just hammering the socket on. I still have the socket I used in case I need to remove another lock nut but I wouldn’t use a cheap, stretched out, 12 point socket on anything I cared about.
Thank you sir!
Saved me in a pinch.
That’s good news! I’m glad it helped!
You save my live, I did your recommendation and it works
So glad it worked for you! Thanks for the comment!
I went through this today this worked perfectly I have a 2008 Lexus ES 350 thank you so much
Glad the video helped you out! Thank you for commenting and sharing your success!
Thank you..WoW.. This similar idea was actually used on my P32 AG Spacecraft Modulator bay door hatch recessed knob
In 1990..
The 35.50 mm circumference security bearing knob that seats onto the mated
Worm gear spline to gain access to the shuttle maintenance control panel had become sweated into place not to mention the coating of atmospheric Oxidation on the internal threading..I had applied a special blend of antiseize and anticorrosion with a heat resistant factor of up to 2000 celsius.
So, were talking 40 Cm recessed shaft with 1.5227 mm if clearance ID of the Bearings surrounding entrance..
Comparitivly, about the clearance thickness of a stick of chewing gum..
So..
However, unfortunately the mother board electronics had a temperature overheating and the hatch servo wasn't responding so the only option was to manually back the worm gear shaft out via the huge Titanium rounded bearing..
But how? It's completely smooth as a chromed Socket.. pretty much impossible to get any sort of normal tool
To fit and Any type of welding there, completely out of the question..
Okay, so here is the cliffs note on how
Some old engineering saved the day.
From an old Civil engineer Construction Socket set ..it was an SAE set but we found one with the ID that would work with some knurling turned inside and the outside she'll was very careful machined lathed to about the thickness of a stick of chewing gum.
This was a meticulous and tedious chore
And was pressed into the bearing via hydrologic .. also, an different torque handle for the Socket was fabricated bcse the old original one didn't have enough angle variation for the quarters we were unfortunately dealing with..
The pressed on knurled Socket was on there to stay and everything went well..
Working on space module Hardware is like nothing you'll experience anywhere else bcse, well it's not common layman civilian know how you learn under the hood of any automobile.. sorta like jet engine ANP mechanic.. it's specially aquired knowledge..
These locks sucks. Took me less than 5 minutes to remove all four. I been using these wheel locks for over 50 years on 7 different cars. Always thought they were theftproof. Thank you for the solution. I will never buy these locks again. A waste of money.
Great video thank you
Muchas gracias. Este video si me a resuelto mi problema.
Me alegra que el video te haya ayudado con tu problema. Gracias por tu amable comentario.
3:46 🤣
No but seriously thanks! This helped me out a lot!
Glad it helped out! Thanks for commenting!
lol “these nuts” 😂
Great video.
Thanks!
Worked as advertised 👍
oh! And I used a 12pt 13/16" SAE socket on my sister-in- laws Lexus. Measured the same as yours.
That’s good to know in case 12pt 19mm sockets are out of stock! Thanks for commenting and sharing the 12pt 13/16” SAE info!
Going to try this today 🙏
Hi David, Best of luck to you with it! Hopefully it will work for you too!
Thank you!
Ingenious.
Definition of W video
Thanks Amazing Games!
So how much do they prevent theft?
My guess is not much.
If you remove by destruction the screw . Simple tighten 2 screws both sides a bit, and use hammer and the steel bar taps directly on the screw that you want to remove about 30 seconds then you unscrew by hand .
Thanks I will try this tomorrow on my es330 I replaced left rear strut waiting to do right side but lock cracked
Before you hammer on the socket, make sure your lock isn’t the newer style with a sleeve that spins around the outside. Best of luck to you with it. Thanks for commenting!
Buen vídeo hermano saludos desde México
¡Muchas gracías!
Hi there, very helpful :) how did you remove the wheel lock from
The 12 point socket after? You said you used an anvil? There’s that metal washer thing that gets in the way, tried using a vice and a hammer and a bolt or chisel and it didn’t come out
I used a long punch through the 1/2’ square drive hole of the socket. I have a cheap Harbor Freight anvil and was able to put the edge of the socket on the edge of the anvil so the socket didn’t move when I hit the punch with a hammer. It took a few good hits to get the wheel lock out. I was not easy. I hope you get it.
Tire shop said leave my car all day and they will see what they can do, that means $$$$$, I went to Lowe’s, got a 19mm for $4, and it came off with some muscle. Was nervous about using a 5lb mini sledge on my wheel bolt… but wow! Worked like a dream! (This was after I ordered a used lock nut that a mechanic stripped out before he got to the 4th one. $30 wasted on eBay.) 02 RX300.
Hi Gratismax. Glad the trick worked for you!Hopefully it saved you a few bucks too! Thanks for taking the time to comment and share your success!
Excelente 👌 👌 👌 a mi me funciono perfecto 👌 👍🏼 👏
That's if they are torqued properly not impacted in
so where did you get those extra lug nuts from ?
I got them at a local auto parts store but if you aren’t in a hurry you can find them cheaper online. Be sure the get the correct type for your vehicle and rims. There are few variations. You can also buy them from the parts counter at a dealership.
You are a lifesaver, it worked perfectly 👍
That’s great news! Glad it helped. Thank you for your comment!
Thanks for the video. Pretty amazing how easily the locks are defeated. Removed 4 locks from my daughter's Altima in about 5 minutes after the key stripped. Thought I was going to have to get a new key from mcgaurd somehow. Of course, now the wheels don't have locks on them but, did they ever really have locks?
There are some improved lock versions available with spinning sides but there are bypass tricks for those too. Wheel locks are such a pain. Twice the key wasn’t returned to the car after serving. First time I didn’t know the trick in the video and changing a flat on the side of the road for my wife turned into a flatbed trip at night to drop the car off at the shop. When it happened again I decided it wasn’t worth the risk of getting stranded. Fortunately second time I was at home (the video) trying to remove the wheel to replace a serpentine belt pulley that was noisy. I’m glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting!
Any suggestions when the wheel lock and the wheel have no space for a socket to be tapped onto?
That’s a tough one especially if you need it off in a hurry. Maybe look on ebay for the correct key? It’s hard to tell which one is correct because small variations in the keys. I believe some people have also welded something like a large nut or bolt on the end of nut to convert it.
Will it work Jeep renagada?
Probably so if it has the same style McGuard locks. Make it’s not the version with a sleeve around the lock that will spin.
Subbed!!
Thank you, @SportsMusicCars!!!
Cost less tried charge me 90 bucks with this helpful video all it cost me what my 19 inch socket
Awesome! Glad you were able to take care of it yourself and save $$$! Thanks for commenting!
Hi I'm a Lexus/Toyota guy but am wondering how the reliability of your Volvo has been?
I love my Volvos but if I had to choose between Volvo or Toyota/Lexus purely on reliability I would pick Toyota/Lexus.
I want to do this on my wheels and it has 4 nuts. How do I know which size to get? Or is it universal like yours?
I wouldn’t say it’s universal and be careful if it’s a different brand or version. Some newer lock designs have a sleeve around the outside of the locknut that will spin and prevent this method from working. In case you missed it, at 0:39 seconds I explain how to determine a socket size that should work.
Freakin life saver!!!
Thanks! I’m glad it helped!
My locking lug nut is McGard with a slip sleeve...... anyone have any ideas?
I haven’t had to deal with the sleeved ones. I have seen some videos where people either spot weld the sleeve or weld a nut on the end and then use the nut to remove it. Unfortunately both of those options require access to a welder.
Very helpful!! Thanks
Glad it helped! Thank you for commenting!
Grande maestro!!!
Thank you!
Exelente!!
Thank you!
Mine are made with harden steel
Yikes don't throw them away. Soon as the lock is loosened but still fully on the stud is the best way to remove the lock from the socket with a good yank or smash outward on the socket
Are the locks reusable or visually damaged after extraction? I also don’t see a reason some jb weld stickweld can’t be used to make a key along with some releasing agent like oil or talcom powder.
The locks were definitely a little banged up by the punch when I removed them from the socket. There might be a way to make a key like you mentioned. I love JB weld but not sure how reliable a key made out of it would be. A new lock set with key runs about $25.
I tried the same way. But it does not work for me
Sorry to hear that it isn't working for you. Some of the newer versions of the lock nut have a sleeve on the outside that spins to keep people from using the trick in this video. Maybe you have that type of locknut? I hope you figure out a way that works. Thank you for commenting.
You missed the last step. Find the person that put them on and slap them. I found out today that my niece had them (used car). If she had a flat she would have been stranded. If the used car dealer doesn't take them off or give us the proper socket, I'll do what you did, thanks!
I’m glad you checked before your niece got stranded somewhere! Hopefully the used car dealer will make it right. Thank you for commenting!
A McGard wheel lock key is 16.99. If you're short on time and need to get a wheel off I get it.
I guess I'm cursed, because I've had no luck with mine. I've been trying for two days. It's the first time I've had to change one of my (used) Lexus tires. The nut was already stripped. It will not budge AT ALL. Lubricant does nothing. Impact wrench does nothing. I don't have a pneumatic, just a Milwaukee, but it's all I have. I've destroyed 3 sockets and even snapped my torque wrench and breaker bar in two. That's right. It's on there so tight I broke a freaking torque wrench. I don't have a welder. And I can't just take it to a shop. The tire will not hold air at all so I can't take it anywhere. Everything I've done has been useless. I'm just stuck with a broken torque wrench, 3 busted sockets, and a car that I can't drive.
That’s rough! Sorry to hear you are having so much trouble. I wonder if the lock nut is cross threaded on the stud or was torqued on way too tight last time it was installed. Unfortunately you might have to get a flatbed tow truck to take the car to a repair shop. I had to do that once, before I learned the trick in the video. My wife got a flat and the dealer had forgotten to put the locknut key back in the car. I was not happy about that.
I hope you are able to your car fixed soon.
How much is 4 socket ?
Currently a Husky 19mm 12 Point 1/2” Drive socket sells for $3.78 at Home Depot.
I have toyota prius 2005 and it's security lock nut is very old and key is just only available on Ebay but all people suggest don't buy its not good Quality and rusty so please cut the nuts and it's cost is nearly £200 .it's much upsetting
.
Wow, I wouldn’t want to pay £200 either! The locks my Lexus dealer installed were made by McGuard, not Lexus/Toyota. If you can find the registration card (glove box maybe?) and the locks were made by McGuard you might be able to order a replacement key.
Here is a link to the McGuard website:
mcgard.com/replacement-parts-ordering-information/
@@fiveable great 👍
Had this problems today because of the wife.Didnt buy 4 . Lots of sweat
Hope it worked out for you. No doubt there was lots of sweat! I have a old VW I have been working on lately. It’s so hot out I sweat the whole time. Thanks for commenting!
Seems so easy to get off that they look to be a waste in the first place.
I agree. I believe there are more secure designs available. Thanks for commenting & Happy New Year!
Well at least it gonna be noisy.
That won't work if the lock has a spinning wheel ... thank god
Yes, the spinning sided nuts are a better design! Thanks for your comment!
Lexus Part shop wants $35 for key nut . Hight way ROBBERY .
I agree! A whole new set of locknuts with key isn’t that much.
@@fiveable Thank you . Also a cheap Quality Car Jack for $420 . you can get it any where for less than $30 .
Thieves are running their hands right now
Oem wheels theywill take them too 🤣
Or the whole car for lots of OEM parts!
3:46
Why are we telling the thieves how to steal our rims and tires?
If you are not in an emergency then order the key from McGard. I paid $5 for the new key. I sent the sample and they took care.
They $17 plus tax. Don’t lie
That's wat i was gonna try Duhhhh
Stealing your own rrims That makes a lot of noise I know there’s no thieves in your neighborhood they would be caught by the police ASAP don’t take stuff that don’t belong to you
Deez nuts are spec to 80 ft. Lb
But, just remember This, if you value your Tire Or Rims..if you make it easy to remove, you're making just that much easier for the thief.. but ya, in general, security lugs suck bcse the adapter drive socket usually strips out with medium torque application.. make it any easier and then anyone with a beefy handle and ⅜" blade screwdriver can remove it..
Too noisy for stealing my rims and activating the car alarm.
Thanks for the tip I just stole 12 sets of rims😅