Changing to Spare Tire
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 256
From: Arizona
Changing to Spare Tire
I have a noob question. So I am about to go on a trip from Phoenix, Az to Las Vegas. I was wondering in case I get a flat how would I go about removing my lug nuts if it has a key lock? I have never had a car before with rims or key locks so any advice would be awesome.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 50
From: Spring, TX
wheel locks
you should have a special socket that engages the lock pattern of the lug nuts. you put that on the lug wrench and proceed as usual. the socket should be either in the glove box or with the spare. find it before you leave because if you don't and need it you'll wind up having to get a tire shop to cut them off unless you can get to a nissan shop which might be able to get them off. either way a major hassle. it happened to me once. maybe someone else knows how to get them off more easily, but then that defeats the purpose of the locks.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
As acamarillo said, the important thing is to be sure you have the lock socket with you, and where you can quickly find it. I do try to wrap/box/disguise and hide it so that thieves will not be able to simply break the glass, enter the car, easily find the lock socket and make off with wheels and tires. And he is right that not having the lock socket available can make things very difficult very quickly (yes, happened to me). Most Nissan shops can find a way to get these locks off without your socket key, but there may not always be a Nissan dealership close by.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 2,132
You should take it out of the bag, marry it up with one of the locking lugs...then you can answer your own question. Also, considering you're level of car knowledge, make sure you have road side assistance in all the states you are going to be traveling. 
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
And be aware that temps in that area are abnormally high this summer, with wildfires running rampant and closing some roads. My son and his daughter just spent three weeks visiting the national parks of the west, and sent us several pics of their dash showing temps between 120 and 124 degrees. ALWAYS have drinking water with you.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 256
From: Arizona
You are so right. I am going to have a small ice chest filled with drinking water. And separate water for the car if needed. I appreciate all of your support it really does help having a close caring community like this.