It’s a sad day when you see someone’s car on blocks and their wheels are missing, especially when it’s an expensive vehicle. But do you know what to do when your wheels are stolen? Here’s a practical guide to help you take action and recover as quickly and safely as possible.
Step-by-Step: What to Do Immediately
- Call the police. You’ll need to file a police report to give your insurance company proof of the incident. While the officer is present, inspect the vehicle for any related damage so it’s documented officially.
- Call your insurance company. Let them know what happened so they can begin the process of filing a claim.
- Call your local dealership. For example, if you own a Honda, speak with a service advisor. They can help you get OEM wheels, tires, and lug nuts, including ‘locking lug nuts’, sent to your location. This is a great way to deter future theft.
- Consider not towing the vehicle. Only request a tow if your location is unsafe. Many tow trucks won’t tow a car missing its wheels. If they do, dragging the car can cause serious, often uninsured damage to the frame, suspension, and more. Avoid this if possible.
- Ask friends or family for help. If someone owns the same brand vehicle, ask to borrow their spare wheels. Just remember to install all lug nuts securely and inflate tires to proper pressure, most spares require 60 psi.
- Call a local junkyard. If OEM parts aren’t available quickly, a junkyard might be a backup option. Be cautious, many junkyard wheels and tires are damaged or aged. Only use this route in an emergency.
- Wait for OEM replacement parts. If time allows, let the dealership provide everything: wheels, tires, lug nuts, sensors, valve stems, center caps, and locking lugs. They’ll also program the tire pressure sensors correctly to your vehicle.
Conclusion
If you must pay out-of-pocket at the dealership, rest assured that the job will be done right. In most cases, your insurance will reimburse you 100%, just remember to save your receipts.
While any car can be targeted, you can reduce your risk by avoiding secluded lots and unpatrolled garages. OEM wheel lock sets are another smart investment to deter theft.
If something feels off about where you’re parking, trust your gut and park somewhere safer, even if it means paying for parking. It’s worth the peace of mind.
One final thought: having your wheels stolen is frustrating and personal. But try not to let it consume your peace. People may steal physical things, but don’t let them steal your hope and joy. Stay positive, focus on recovery, and get back on the road stronger than before.
FAQs For Stolen Wheels & Tires
Yes, if you have comprehensive auto insurance. Be sure to file a police report and submit all receipts for reimbursement.
Many tow companies will not tow vehicles without wheels due to damage risks. If absolutely necessary, request a flatbed and confirm liability before moving the car.
Yes, locking lug nuts deter casual thieves, but a determined thief with the right tools can still remove them. Still, they are a valuable deterrent worth having.
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These parts are designed for your specific vehicle, ensuring proper fit, function, and safety. They’re also preferred by insurance companies.
Use locking lug nuts, park in well-lit areas, avoid leaving your vehicle overnight in high-crime zones, and consider a home security camera system if parking in your driveway.
The locking lug nuts should be as tight as all the other lug nuts on each wheel. Check your owner’s manual for the “lug nut torque specification”. Keep in mind, the locking lug nut ‘key’ is made out of a softer metal. So if the shop over-torqued the lug nuts and you attempted to loosen the locking lug nut with a handtool, it would most likely break.
Have the vehicle towed back to the shop. They will be able to remove the locking lug nut and order you a new key or replace the entire set.
Yes. Most dealerships stock the OEM specified wheel lock set (locking lug nuts) for your vehicle. Just be sure the locking lug nut length matches the current lug nuts installed on your vehicle.
If you have an OEM alarm system, its motion sensitivity may be set to “low” or “off”. Make an appointment at the dealership so they can inspect the alarm system for issues and have them initiate the motion sensors (if available).
Consider having a high-quality aftermarket alarm installed that detects motion. Keep in mind, if your vehicle has an OEM theft deterrent system that disables the ignition, make sure the aftermarket alarm installer does not wire into that system.
Yes. Consider renting a garage to store your vehicle. Having peace of mind is priceless!
Wheel replacement resources
When you’re ready to replace the wheels/tires yourself, here’s a great resource to help you get started.
