Missing wheel lock key on 2012 S550 Base (No Spare Tire) - Any hidden factory spots?
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2025
Posts: 35
Likes: 5
From: Chicago
2012 S550 Base
Missing wheel lock key on 2012 S550 Base (No Spare Tire) - Any hidden factory spots?
Hey everyone,
I just took my 2012 S550 Base (W221) into the shop today for a brake flush and tire rotation, but the mechanic hit a wall because he can't find the wheel lock key. I bought the car back in December and this is my first time needing the wheels off, so I didn't even realize it had locks installed.
My car doesn't have a physical spare tire in the trunk (just the inflator setup), so it's not tucked away in a traditional spare wheel well.
Before I give up and head to the dealership to have them use a master key or extract them, are there any highly specific, hidden factory storage spots or tool compartments on the W221 where this key usually hides? We've already checked the standard glovebox and the main center console.
Any advice on hidden pockets, or tips on the easiest way to get these removed/replaced in the area would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance.
I just took my 2012 S550 Base (W221) into the shop today for a brake flush and tire rotation, but the mechanic hit a wall because he can't find the wheel lock key. I bought the car back in December and this is my first time needing the wheels off, so I didn't even realize it had locks installed.
My car doesn't have a physical spare tire in the trunk (just the inflator setup), so it's not tucked away in a traditional spare wheel well.
Before I give up and head to the dealership to have them use a master key or extract them, are there any highly specific, hidden factory storage spots or tool compartments on the W221 where this key usually hides? We've already checked the standard glovebox and the main center console.
Any advice on hidden pockets, or tips on the easiest way to get these removed/replaced in the area would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 5,164
Likes: 1,774
From: Colorado
G550
Tire shops deal with this all the time. They can remove the locking lug bolt, but usually mangle the drive head, so you'll need to buy a new set. If the locks are MB, check with the dealer first. Go through the OM and see if there's a card with a key code on it.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 11,479
Likes: 5,359
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2019 C63CS
There is no specific place for it to go. The wheel locks are a port installed option, so the factory doesn't even deal with it. They come with a plastic case to store the original wheel bolts and the key. Mine was just sitting in the trunk cubby and rattled around, so I removed it and put the key in the tire fit kit bag, so everything is together. Most likely the previous owner kept it outside of the car. It's very common for these to go lost when the cars are sold. Best option is to have the dealership remove them with the master key and then replace it with a new set and key.
