Locked spare wheel cover issue

Hello, new Jimny owner here (I've introduced myself on the My Jimny section). I have just bought an '09 Jimny that has the chrome spare wheel cover on it, however I can't get if off. I've tried a ratchet strap and screwdiver to try and unlatch the locking mechanism but that hasn't worked. So I was wondering is there a "standard method" for dealing with this issue, or is it a case of drilling the lock out and trying to get a replacement barrel for it? Any advice much appreciated.

Hi,

My 2020 Jimny came with the same wheel cover (without the key), but I managed to compress the cover enough and finally got the lock hasp to spring off.

I found out the cover were made in Germany and tried to obtain a replacement barrel, but didn’t get a reply so bought a new barrel from Toolstation, which was near enough the same.

The lock plate was slightly different so I decided to swap that part over and it was then that I noticed that the keys for my new lock would unlock the old lock, if the key was held in the right place.

So I didn’t bother replacing the lock barrel and just use the new keys.

If you can’t spring the lock, you might try a selection of keys or an old fashioned lock smith might have a key that will fit.

Alternatively drill it out, or use a big lever, something will bend and it could always be straightened afterwards.

Robin.

Does the lock have a number on it? Quite a few of the cheaper locks have a number that corresponds to a generic key, mostly used for toolboxes, roof rack locks etc. You might find you have a key that already fits. 
Coincidentally my trailer door lock, roof rack locks, and the toolbox on my ute all have the same key number and are interchangeable. None are high security of course. 

You might be able to pick the lock with a paper clip, it's not the most complicated.

You can also buy replacements, you'll have to rivet them on though.