I just bought a little Clio the other day and after taking it for some new tyres realised that the locking wheel nut key is missing. Doh!!
Renault have failed to get back to me with costs regarding removal of the nuts, anyone have any idea how much Renault charge? Is it cheaper to get the removal tools myself?

bash a an old socket onto it with an impact driver

thats how i've removed them in the past

An emmergency removal tool (a sort of external eazi-out) isn't that expensive but they have a limited life --- should get 4 nuts off however.

Some locking nuts can be got off otherways eg older Rover 200/400 ones can be got off with socket and a couple bits of steel dowal.

Often manufacturers only use a couple of key numbers --- for example Rover 75 locking wheel nuts are always no11 or no12, in practice no11 is the only one found.

[Edited on 12/5/07 by britishtrident]

Most tyre places have plenty of experience getting 'em off, what did the fitter say ?

The fitter said that they didn't have the tool to remove them because it costs about £70. I guess I expected that kind of (Don't really want to know) response from ATS

Oh well, I will give Renault "yet another" call on Monday and if they don't charge too much get them to do it. Failing that it's hammer time (<- Cue music) + old socket.

Cheers for the replies all.

Locking Wheel Nut Removal Set 2pc 21 & 25mm 1/2Sq Drive Sealey SX200

Chrome Molybdenum steel socket with 1/2Sq drive. Used with air impact wrench running in reverse, deep reverse helix grips locking wheel nut. Ideal for busy fast fit operation. Removal action will distort wheel nut and replacement is recommended. 21 and 25mm Sockets fit nuts on most vehicles.

The Sealey Locking Wheel Nut Removal Set 2pc 21 & 25mm 1/2Sq Drive Sealey SX200 appears on page 178 of the current Sealey Tools catalogue.

Parts and Instruction PDF Documents may be available relating to this product, please try the links below...

Parts Instructions


Price: £11.07 (Incl. VAT)

http://www.justoffbase.co.uk/Locking-Wheel-Nut-Removal-Set-2pc-21-25mm-Sealey-SX200?sc=9&category=219
Rescued attachment whnutnl.jpg

Are you sure the 'key' is not inside the glove box? Some cars have a little hook they slip onto, unless you know its there its easy to miss it.

Or can you find the previous owner, they may have it?

[Edited on 12/5/07 by balidey]

the main dealer will have a master set to remove
them and then can order key from master set number

I've heard this recommended before.

take the other 3 bolts off and drive round in tight circles, either clockwise or CCW depending on the side. Should loosen it enough to be finger tight.

last time i had this problem the tyre place was unfased by it, charged £5 i believe because the tool doesnt last long, which i thought was fair.

You can get one that hammers on and the hammering gradually undoes it, sort of like a manual impact wrench.