AlexMercedes

Hi, I have a 2002 G500 and the spare tire cover is full of dents and chipping paint. I want to remove the cover entirely for now until I get a new one, but I came across a problem. There is a key slot under the tire cover and I don't have the key for it, nor can I acquire one right now. What should I do to get this tire cover open? Any help is appreciated, thanks.

hubert

They key that's in your keyfob(remote control) should be the key that opens the cover.

KeithG500

My used 2005 G500 came with a separate key for the spare tire cover.
The Locking part is actually a separate piece that can be replaced.
If the chrome rim part of the cover is fine and just the dish portion is damaged? Then you might want to try a locksmith since the entire cover is expensive. If the whole thing (Both the outer chrome and dish is damaged) then a hummer will work fine.

AlexMercedes

The only part that's damaged is the dish portion. I thought maybe I can take only that part off, but it looks like I need to remove the whole thing, which does indeed require the key :/

I heard that the key is universal, so I'm going to the MB dealership tomorrow to ask for the key, hopefully they will supply me with one.

KeithG500

Keep me posted. Good luck!!!

bryanrex

Usually the spare tire key came inside the owner's manual, or in the cubby below the right rear seat along with the jack. Unfortunately mine was nowhere to be found. Fortunately however, a new cam lock is only a $60 part from any online MB parts wholesaler and it comes with two new keys.

Unlatch the old lock with a flathead screwdriver (it only takes about 10 pounds of torque). Once the latch is open remove the clip, slide out the lock and replace it with the new part... it only takes about 2 minutes. BTW the lock isn't intended to prevent theft, it's simply to secure the trim ring to the vehicle.

Patris

Any locksmith worth his salt should be able to pick it as it is a simple hasp lock the other option is to have a friend "push" the two side together and with a screwdriver bend the gripper part out of the grove, it is a "screw tighten" piece and easy to adjust off the tire.

bryanrex

Amen. However for those of you with no keys be advised that the hour of labor that the locksmith will charge (plus grinding new keys with no blank) will cost significantly more than ordering a new lock and key set.

victordakhteh

If they don't supply you with one, just pick it open, its fairly simple