Lug nuts can be extremely difficult to remove during cold, wet weather conditions. Moisture is able to collect between the lug bolt threads and the lug nut, as well as between the wheel and the back side of the lug nut surface. Once this moisture freezes, it forms heavy ice, which makes an already difficult-to-remove lug nut even more problematic. Though ice can be easily broken when turning a nut with a wrench, it creates just enough additional tightness; even the smallest amount of ice can make the lug nut nearly impossible to remove, unless treated with an anti-icing fluid before loosening.
Apply a generous amount of Isopropyl alcohol to all areas of each lug nut and to the lug bolt threads of each lug; allow it to soak onto the metal parts for two or three minutes. Apply alcohol again to each lug nut and wait two more minutes. Isopropyl alcohol doesn't freeze, and will work in de-icing the lugs and nuts.
Apply a generous amount of a chosen anti-rust lubricant to one lug and nut at a time, allowing the fluid to act for only thirty seconds before putting the tire wrench on the lug nut and attempting to remove. If left to act on the lug for a longer period without breaking the lug nut free with the wrench, the lubricant material may freeze. If this occurs, apply an additional small amount of alcohol and immediately begin working to loosen the lug nut.
Apply additional lubricant and alcohol onto each of the lugs when preparing to loosen each one, as needed.
