ok, I've actually done this, as opposed to the random speculation - my prior
german car had locking lug nuts where the key removed the outer ring so you
could access a regular lug nut - some idiot tried to pull them off with a
slide hammer, all that did was damage the lock cylinder. I used a diamond
wheel in a dremel tool and cut it off quite easily - first the separate the
outer cylinder from the end with the lock tumbler, then notch the top and
take it off. A new set of locks cost me about $35 from the dealer.



"Dan" wrote in message
.. .
Recently I purchased a used car from a private party for my wife. A
couple of days ago we noticed that there were wheel locks installed, so we
called the seller, and of course, they have no idea where the keys are.

A quick call to the dealership and a quote of $180.00 to replace the key
(!!!) and I am motivated to find a way to remove the locks without
damaging the studs or wheels.

Here is a close up photo of a locked stud and an unlocked one:
http://www.oz.net/~dans/lock.jpg

I have basic metalworking gear at my disposal, files, dremel, drills,
c-clamps, etc. but nothing major such as oxy-acetylene or other welding
gear. Is this something that a local tire shop could handle for me? It
can't be too unusual of a situation....

Thanks,
-Dan