Replace wheel lock "key" socket?

[DCNSX]

Looks like I lost the "key" socket for my locking lug nuts. Dealer says they cannot replace the "key"- and will charge $80 labor to remove the existing locking lug nuts (the process destroys them). A replacement lug set is $60. ouch. Any ideas? FYI- I have 7-spoke OEM wheels (see photo at left).

I have to remove the wheels to get a state inspection!! (they inspect the pads) Not to mention, should I get a flat...

 

[NSXTech]

If the dealer you called was the selling dealer, he is FOS. The factory wheel locks come with a McGuard registration card that should have been sent in when the car was sold new. It contains the VIN and the puzzle code. They could find out that way. Also they only make 10 or 12 keys, and most Honda dealers have a complete set.

Make sure they are factory (McGuard) locks, then try another (Honda or Acura) dealer.

HTH,
MB

 

[DCNSX]

The wheels were ordered new thru this very dealer!!!

I called a DIFFERENT service rep there and he says they have all the Acura keys. If I can find the key code provided with the lug set I can order a new key socket. Or I can replace with non-locking sockets. (I don't really park in the 'hood that much anywayz)

Also- Lud emailed me and sez the removal-tool method only takes about 2 minutes per wheel. No way it should be $80 labor.

...and the replacement locking lug set is $36. $25 for non-locking set.

 

[Acura NsX Pilot]

If you go to any tire shop in the hood they can get those wheel locks off for half that price. Wheel locks IMO do not prevent theft....they only discourage the amateur thiefs from tryiing.

 

[EIFFEL]

Find another dealer with factory master lock set and have them remove the locks. All dealers have the master set. The labor should be no more than $40. 1/2 labor. The McGard locks will have the code on it. Which ever one that fits is the correct code. It is stamped on the locks itself.

 

[DCNSX]

Epilogue

I went back to the dealer and was told it would be $30 labor to remove the lugs/wheels and inspect the car, using their key. Unfortunately the key # is NOT stamped on their key, so a replacement cannot be ordered from McGard. They wouldn't do an inspection unless I had the key or non-locking lugs. They said I had to be able to remove the wheels in case of a flat. --Makes sense--- ...but it would cost $56 for a set of new stainless steel lugs- stainless was all they had in stock (but mine are black!). So I was kinda ticked off but said go ahead. Had to get on the road.

And then the service rep calls me- one of their Techs has a matching key lug and he'll sell it to me. So I give the Tech a $20 bill, there is no charge for the state inspection, and I am on my way. All's well that ends well. :smile:

Thanks everyone for your advice/input.

 

[EIFFEL]

Re: Epilogue

Unfortunately the key # is NOT stamped on their key, so a replacement cannot be ordered from McGard.

I am glad they got it off, But the factory locks are marked with "colors" as key code. I have the master key set. The colors are used to identify what locks needed to order from Mcgard. The dealership can order it by completing Replacement Parts Order Form and FAX it to McGard. The dealership just don't want to order the key for you. :frown:

 

[Briank]

Re: Epilogue

And then the service rep calls me- one of their Techs has a matching key lug and he'll sell it to me. So I give the Tech a $20 bill, there is no charge for the state inspection, and I am on my way. All's well that ends well. :smile:

Looks like the Rep and the Tech got lunch money out of you.

 

[DCNSX]

lunch money. probably. ...but at $20.00 still cheaper than paying for an inspection AND for a replacement key.