Strange bolt on my wheel, what tool?

[nickythesaint]

Morning,

I just bought some new alloys for my [E36] 3 series, driving to pick them up later today.

Just checking the wheels I noticed that one of the bolts in the rear wheel is not a regular bolt that the spanner fits, I've seen them before but don't know what they're called? Which scuppers my plans a bit because I've got nothing to take the bolt off with.

My first thought was to get over to Halfords and see if they have the tool. Would a BMW dealer likely have a standard bolt around and take pitty and help me replace it without costing the earth?

See picture here [click for bigger]:




Help much appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Nick

[nickythesaint]

anonymous said:

[redacted]

Brilliant. Thanks. Very helpful indeed.

Found the 'key' in the little tool box in the boot lid.

Edited by nickythesaint on Friday 23 September 08:09

[nickythesaint]

Do any PH'ers have the same key and live in London or Surrey by chance? Mine was a little chewed on the edges and on the last week it gave up the ghost. So now I have three new wheels and one old one, not good.

Will have to replace it or get them out and get a new set of locking nuts. Pain in the backside.

If anyone could help me out today be much appreciated.

Cheers,

Nick

[john_p]

There are a range of different key patterns - they all look similar, but are "splined" differently - you are probably best getting a new locking set from BMW as there aren't that many different keys and thieves will have them off instantly if they want your wheels. But the new sets are pretty decent.

Or, see if a local garage can remove it ?

e: get down to your local dealer before 12 and you might be able to get it for Monday

Edited by john_p on Saturday 24th September 10:32

[edc]

If it's a BMW locker then the service desk can try every key they have. If you are lucky like I was order you one in but you take their locker from the shop and the newly ordered one would be their replacement.

[nickythesaint]

Thanks again, good advice.

Bolt was a bit damaged too, was looking like it might need to be drilled out.

Thames Ditton BMW had the key in stock cost £7 and a replacement standard bolt for £3.

They can get the locking bolt but its £12 and needs to be ordered in. There are whole new sets on ebay for less than that.

Went to local independent tyre place and they kindly got the bolt out and replaced the wheel for me, and didn't even charge me. So I bought them some beers to say thanks.

All sorted.

Now to watch Quali's.