So, I need to replace a rear ball joint on my 1993 LeSabre Limited... Right from the get go I have issues - I can't get the hubcap off!

Under the center cap of the hubcap there is a green anti-theft bolt. I don't have the tool for it, but I can get a pair of vice grips on it and turn it. No matter how much I turn it won't come out!

Is there something special you need to do to remove that bolt? Am I literally "screwed"? How can I get this hubcap off?

If I do get the hubcap off, will it stay on if I don't reuse the green bolt? If not, does it have a standard thread so I can replace it with a normal bolt?

Thanks.

 

Sounds like the release tool may apply inner pressure to engage threaded part of bolt to turn. Could it rotate in reverse to remove?

 

I know your post is a few years old, but could you tell me how you resolved this issue? Also, I can't figure out how to get the center cap off. Doesn't seem to be any indentation to insert a screwdriver to pry it off.

Thanks

 

They don't always provide a spot for a pry off tool in which case we just pick a spot.