How to use a tire lock key

Why You Need to Master Tire Lock Key Usage?

（一）Why Tire Lock Keys Matter in Daily Security

Tire locks are important safety tools for managing parking lots. Asset protection and anti-theft solutions, whether you are a real estate manager or not, protect commercial parking lots, car rental companies, prevent unauthorized use of vehicles, or protect private drivers from landlords. 

However, if you cannot use the appropriate key correctly, even the most durable tire lock will fail. 

As a professional Chinese tire lock manufacturer with 15 years of experience, we have received hundreds of questions from customers around the world regarding "tire lock key operation"issues"—from key jamming to incorrect unlocking sequences. This guide will break down every step of using a tire lock key, along with our factory’s high-quality tire lock parameters and answers to common questions, helping you maximize security while avoiding operational mistakes.

（二）Our Advantage as a China-Based Supplier

At China's leading tire lock factory, we not only produce reliable tire locks but also provide end-to-end after-sales support. All of our products comply with ISO 9001 and CE standards, and provide customized solutions for customers in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia. Do you need to open orders or test samples? Our team ensures fast delivery and professional technical guidance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Tire Lock Key Correctly

• Using a tire lock key is not complicated, but incorrect operations can damage the key or lock cylinder. Follow these 5 steps to unlock/lock smoothly:Prepare the Tire Lock Key and Inspect the Lock

First, make sure you have the correct original key (our factory provides 2-3 spare keys for each tire lock to prevent loss). 

• Inspect the key for wear: If the teeth on the key are bent, rusted, or broken, replace it immediately (contact our China supplier team for a replacement key). Inspect the tire lock keyhole: Use a dry cloth to remove any dust, sand, or debris—foreign objects can cause the key to become stuck. Align the key with the lock cylinder

Hold the key with your dominant hand, ensuring the teeth are facing the correct direction (most of our original keys have a "TOP" mark, indicating that the teeth are facing up).

Gently insert the key into the lock cylinder—do not force it. If it doesn't go in smoothly, adjust the key angle slightly (misalignment often causes this problem).

•  Turn the key to unlock 

Once the key is fully inserted, turn it 90 degrees clockwise (for most of our models) until you hear a click—this indicates the lock pin has unlocked. 

If the key is difficult to turn, apply a small amount of graphite grease to the key (do not use oil, as it attracts dust). If it is severely stuck, contact our factory technical support. 

• Removing the Tire Lock from the Rim 

After unlocking, grasp the tire lock body with one hand and pull it away from the tire - ensuring the lock retaining clip is fully open to avoid scratching the rim.  

For our heavy-duty tire lock models (see specifications below), you may need to press the release button when removing the lock retaining clip - refer to the instructions provided by our Chinese manufacturer. 

•  Locking the Tire Lock (for Reuse) 

To relock, place the tire lock on the rim and ensure the retaining clip is tightened. 

Insert the key into the lock cylinder and turn it 90 degrees counterclockwise until you hear a click, then remove the key.   

Check that the lock is secure by gently pulling on the lock body. If the lock body does not move, the lock is secure.

Our Tire Lock & Key Product Parameters (Factory Direct)

As a professional China tire lock supplier, we offer 3 main series of tire locks, each with matching high-strength keys. Below is a detailed parameter table for our best-selling models: