Thule Spare Me 2 Bike Rack Knob Will Not Unlock and Only Spins Freely

Question:

I have the key to unlock the bike rack from the spare tire. I have turned it to the locking position and the unlock position and I have lubricated it with WD40. When I have the key in the unlock position it just keeps spinning around and doesnt unlock. Am I going to have to hire a locksmith to drill out the lock to get it off the back of my car? I am concerned if I were to get a flat tire, I would be in trouble without access to my spare.

asked by: Jaymie L

Expert Reply:

The knob on the Thule Spare Me 2 Bike Rack # TH963PRO spins freely when it is in the locked position. So it sounds like the knob is not actually unlocking when you are using your key. First, just double check that it is the correct key. Then ensure the key is fully seating in the lock by pushing in while you try to unlock the knob. It may be helpful to hold the knob in place when trying to turn towards the unlock direction.

If the knob continues to spin freely then it is most likely still locked, but you can attempt to remove the lock core using the Universal Change Key for Thule One Key Locks # 853-1251 that came with the bike rack. But the lock core should only remove if it is unlocked, so this likely will not work.

If you cannot get the knob to unlock and the universal change key does not work, then you will likely have to hire a locksmith.

If you end up needing to drill through the lock cores, the Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders # TH450200 can be used as replacements.

expert reply by: Scott S