Well, I screwed up big time, and when I rotated my tires, I lost my security nut key. I think it must have still been one one of the nuts when I drove off, cause it's NOWHERE. GONE.

This was a set of 04 STi wheels, with what I guess are the optional Subaru locking lugs.

Steve at Auto Innovations said he could break them off, but it might damage the wheel. =( =( My car is now waiting at AI, wanting its new tires and suspension.

What options do I have here? The key is LOST, I have no hope of ever finding it. can the dealership help? I don't have the original packaging, so I don't know if they can match the pattern or not. Do I just tell Steve to break em?

 

Use a wheel lock removal key. Just hammer it on and remove the lugnut.

 

If it's a Subaru option, they will have your key. Many dealerships only have ~ 50-100 different kinds of locks and if they try them on, they can get them off.

If it's not a Subaru option, then basically they break them off (and if done correctly does not damage the wheel). All you need is a strong socket, like an impact socket, that is 1-2 mm too small to go around the lock nut. Hammer it on so it's tight and twist away.

 

Use Imprezers advice. This is what my local tire shop did when I lost my lug key on my other car. He hammered it in and it came right off. Needless to say I had to buy a new set but that is to be expected.