pearllex09

So I tried putting my summer wheels on today. I got both on my passenger side then when I went to the driver side the factory lug nut key broke. I went to the dealer and got another key and that one broke as well! What should I do now?

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Key, as-in the locking lug nut key? Well, are you putting these lug nuts on using an impact gun? If so, that's why. If not, what torque setting are your lugs down too?

Your only recourse is getting another one.

pearllex09

Yea its the factory locking lug nut key. This is the first time I've taken off my factory wheels on this car. I think I'm gonna make an appointment at the dealership to have them taken off cause I don't wanna keep breaking keys.

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

BTW, when you say summer wheels are you talking about aftermarket wheels? I hope you are NOT re-using the OE lugs on those wheels. You need to be using another type, but likely conical/tapered.

pearllex09

Yea I have aftermarket wheels they came with different lug nuts that Im using. I just can't believe how easy the factory lug key breaks

sm1ke

iTrader: (5)

Are you taking the locking lugs off, or putting them on? If you're putting them on, don't. As Gville350 mentioned, the factory lugs and locks are not meant to be used with aftermarket wheels.

If you're taking them off, could it be possible that the locking lug has seized onto the stud? Just throwing it out there.

heyarms

iTrader: (5)

This thread needs more info.

pearllex09

I was taking them off my factory wheels

Initial G

iTrader: (38)

Best bet would to have the dealership take off the OEM rims and to purchase another lug nut key. Never heard of anyone breaking 2 lug nut keys. Good luck. Keep us posted.

pearllex09

I think once I get these wheels off I'm not gonna use the locking nuts in the future for the oem rims.

kickin8

iTrader: (1)

check your threads and see if there are rust....etc?

pearllex09

Thanks guys will def check that. Are the lug bolts 12x1.5?

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Perhaps the last installation of your locking lugs were with an impact gun and over-torqued? Its also recommended to hit the threads with a stiff steel brush and perhaps some anti-seize.

medic250

DIY fix... Find a double hex socket that just almost fits onto the lock lug nut then pound it on with a hammer, then proceed to take it off with a ratchet or impact if you've got it. the double hexs' points will grind into the outside of the smooth lug nut and bite enough so you can take it off. Also if you have a bench vice you can then pound the lug out of the socket head and re use both, I've done this on my Lexus, my dads Lexus, and my moms Toyota, the keys seems to be pretty crappy when it comes to over tightened nuts... I avoid it now since I bought a gorilla lock nut set for my oem wheels.

I'm assuming the pattern on the key is possibly stripped?

trentagxw

This is the first time I've taken off my factory wheels on this car.