How To Find The BMW Wheel Lock Code?

If you own a BMW, you know how important it is to keep your wheels safe and secure. That’s why many BMW models come equipped with wheel locks – special lug nuts that require a unique key to remove. But what happens when you lose that key or don’t have the wheel lock code? Don’t panic – this guide will walk you through several methods to find your BMW wheel lock code.

Why Do You Need the BMW Wheel Lock Code?

BMW wheel locks are designed to deter thieves and prevent stolen wheels or tires. The locks require a special key to unlock them so they can be removed.

Without the proper wheel lock code and key, you won’t be able to change a flat tire, rotate your tires, or swap out your wheels. Needing the code is inevitable if you want to perform any kind of maintenance or modification that involves removing the wheels.

So if you’ve lost your BMW wheel lock key or don’t have the code handy, read on for tips on how to find it.

Check All Paperwork and Documentation

The wheel lock code is often documented somewhere in the paperwork that came with your BMW. Here are the best places to check:

Owner’s manual – Carefully comb through the entire manual looking for any reference to the wheel locks or code. There may be a small card or insert included.
Service records – If you’ve had your tires rotated or wheels removed for brake service, the shop may have noted the code somewhere in the paperwork.
Purchase documentation – Review the docs from when you bought the BMW. Dealerships sometimes provide the wheel lock code.
Glovebox/trunk paperwork – Check any folders, pouches or small bags that came with the car. Code cards are typically small.

As you search, look for a code that is usually 6-8 digits long. Also look for the lock manufacturer’s name, like McGard, Gorilla Automotive, etc. This will help you identify wheel lock codes.

Check Inside the Vehicle Itself

In addition to paperwork, also check inside the vehicle for any documentation related to the BMW wheel locks:

Look inside the glovebox and center console. Code cards are often tucked away in here.
Check in the trunk underneath any floor mats or coverings. Some BMW models have the code inside the spare tire toolkit.
Feel under the seats in any crevices where a code card may have fallen. Also check any storage pockets on the doors.
If you have onboard documentation storage like BMW’s iDrive system, look for wheel lock info in there.

Basically, check anywhere small papers or cards may be stashed inside the car. Brand new BMW owners can sometimes find the wheel lock code conveniently placed inside the vehicle.

Contact Your BMW Dealership

If you’ve searched high and low through all the documentation without any luck, don’t despair. Your BMW dealership can help you out.

Simply contact the parts or service department at the dealership where you purchased the BMW. Provide them with your vehicle’s VIN, and they should be able to look up the wheel lock code for you.

There may be a small fee for this service, as it does require a technician looking up your vehicle in the BMW database and providing the code. But it’s a reliable way to get your wheel lock code when all else fails.

Use a Locksmith Specializing in BMWs

Professional locksmiths, especially those specializing in BMWs, have the expertise to find your wheel lock code even without any documentation. They have dealt with countless BMW owners who have lost their wheel lock keys and can quickly remedy the situation.

The process involves using special tools to remove your existing wheel locks in order to identify the correct code. The locksmith can then provide a replacement key. This option avoids the need to completely replace your locks.

While likely more costly than other methods, a professional locksmith virtually guarantees you’ll get your wheel lock code recovered. And they can create spare keys to avoid any future hassles.

Store the Code Properly for Future Use

Once you successfully track down your lost BMW wheel lock code, take measures to keep it accessible for the future:

Make physical copies of the code and keep in your glovebox, wallet, toolkit etc. Consider laminating it to prevent fading.
Take a photo of the code card or document so you have a digital backup. Store it on your phone or in the cloud.
Register your code with your BMW dealership’s parts department so it’s on file with the VIN. This makes replacements easy.
Designate a special spot in your toolkit for the wheel lock code card that stays with the vehicle.

Storing the code properly helps give you peace of mind. You’ll always know right where to find that crucial information when needed.

What If You Can’t Find the Code at All?

Despite your best efforts, it is possible you may not be able to track down your BMW wheel lock code through paperwork, your dealership, or a locksmith. If that happens, you still have options:

A locksmith can use special extractor tools to remove the existing wheel locks without the code. New locks can then be installed.
Your BMW dealership may have a master wheel lock key set that can remove locks without the code. Again, new locks would be installed after.
You can opt to just replace all wheel locks with a new set. Generic varieties are available if you don’t need OEM BMW locks.

While not ideal, these solutions allow you to at least remove your wheels without the original code. And new wheel locks are purchased so you have the code going forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about finding BMW wheel lock codes:

Where is the BMW wheel lock code typically located?

Most commonly it is found in paperwork like the owner’s manual or service records. Also check documents in the glovebox and trunk. Newer BMWs may have it pre-installed inside the car.

What does the BMW wheel lock code look like?

It will be a 6-8 digit number, usually with the wheel lock brand and contact info. Codes are printed on a small card, paper, or metal tag.

Should I register my BMW wheel lock code with the dealership?

Yes, you can register the code when you provide your VIN. This makes it easy for the dealership to lookup your code in the future if needed.

In Conclusion

Losing or not having your BMW wheel lock code can certainly be frustrating. But in most cases, it can be recovered through some diligent searching or by enlisting professional help.

Follow the steps outlined in this guide – check paperwork, vehicle storage spots, contact the dealership and locksmith if needed. And be sure to keep the code handy in your vehicle once found. With a few tips, you can avoid wheel lock problems and easily maintain your BMW.