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Step 1
Secure the car properly on a set of jack stands or use a lift rack. Essentially the wheel needs to be off the ground enough to remove it and access the interior area of the wheel, while the vehicle remains secure to prevent injury.
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Step 2
Remove the wheel. Remove the dust cap, if needed. This can be done by prying the edge of the cover until it pops off. Take a moment to inspect the dust cap for excessive corrosion or damage. This should also be done with the wheel and lug nuts.
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Step 3
Use a basic pair of side cuts and grip the edge of the cotter pin that's sticking out. It will take some downward leverage to get it out, since it needs to be bent to stay in place when installed. Once you pull it out, toss it. These should be replaced whenever removed.
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Step 4
Located the retaining nut. Notice the cotter pin slides through a tab on the retaining nut to keep it from unscrewing. Once the cotter pins have all been removed and the retaining nut is free of them, you can unscrew and remove the retaining nut. This will give you access to your castle nut.
