A flat tire is a major inconvenience, especially if you are not near a car shop where you can get the tire replaced without having to do it yourself. The situation becomes more complicated if you do not know the F150 wheel lock key location or lost the key.
Unfortunately, if this is your situation, you will have to figure out a way to remove the spare tire without a key.
Disclaimer: This article is for education purposes. It goes without saying that you should not use the steps detailed below to take tires from someone else’s truck.
How to lower spare tire without the right tools
Method 1
Tools needed
- 18mm bolt extractor
- Joint pliers
- Pieces of 2*4 wood chunks
- Hammer (optional)
Steps to follow;
- Get under the truck and pull and turn the guide tube towards the truck’s rear for easy access to the tire drop assembly.
- Then go to the passenger side of the truck and pull down the spare tire. Shimmy the wood chunks between the top of the tire and the spare tire frame; to create room for tire removal.
- Find the Ford spare tire key lock by feeling around the top side of the tire. Then use the joint pliers to clamp it down. Pull the lock towards the rear of the truck while wiggling it until you hear it pop.
- Then use the F150 spare tire removal kit to remove the spare tire once you have dropped it.
- If you do not have a spare tire removal kit, use an 18mmbolt extractor to open the bolts holding the spare tire to the frame.
- You can also use the hammer to push the guide tube or wood chunks to make it easier.
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Method 2
Tools needed
- 14mm socket
- A guide or tube for the 14mm socket
- A hammer
- Regular extender or crank
- A flathead screwdriver
Steps to follow;
- Place your 14mm socket on the extender or guide to make it easier to reach the spare tire key. The ideal extender length is 60-70 cm.
- Then insert the socket into the spare tire lock by inserting the socket into the hole on the left side of the vehicle license plate in the rear bumper.
- Then use the hammer to push the socket into the lock. Hammer gently to avoid damaging any parts of your truck. Then proceed to remove the lock.
- Then use a crank or extender to remove the spare tire.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to separate the socket from the spare key lock.
Conclusion:
If you are not comfortable doing any of the above to remove your tire, then consider hiring a professional to help you remove your spare tire. Or you can reach out to a Ford service center for assistance.
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