We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›
A steering wheel lock could mean the difference between a discouraged thief or an easy swipe. With the rise of recent social media challenges, as well as tough economic times, vehicle theft seems to be on the rise. Not only are cars being stolen for both viral videos or quick cash, but some are being snatched simply because of how easy it is. Exploits in the security systems of select auto manufacturers have been discovered and are quickly being spread around online, leaving many drivers worried that while manufacturers work on providing a fix, their car could quickly become a target. While searching for strategies to prevent this, I researched and gathered some of the best steering wheel locks I could find to put them in a head-to-head comparison.
Summary List
Best Overall: Disklok Security Wheel Lock
Best Value: The Club 3000 Twin Hooks
Honorable Mention: Zone Tech Universal Anti-Theft Steering Wheel Lock
Most Versatile: Kaycentop Steering Wheel Lock
Our Methodology
We all love our cars and want to protect our investments. As a fellow enthusiast, I strive to provide the most extensive and honest research I could provide, so that your vehicle stays right where you parked it.
I searched far and wide through countless manufacturer websites, YouTube videos, and customer reviews on sites such as Amazon to find steering wheel locks that will be both a visual deterrent and a useful security item. Overall, I chose products based on quality, price, manufacturer reputation, and customer feedback. While no product is perfect, the best on this list fit these roles to varying degrees. Any steering wheel lock that had poor build quality, easy bypass methods or overwhelmingly poor customer reviews were omitted from my list. On top of Amazon listings, I also used manufacturer websites to reference the specs and functionality of each lock. I recommend reading this for more information on how The Drive curates a buyers guide.
Best Steering Wheel Lock Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Disklok Security Wheel Lock
Best Value
The Club 3000 Twin Hooks
Honorable Mention
Zone Tech Universal Anti-Theft Steering Wheel Lock
Most Versatile
Kaycentop Steering Wheel Lock
Our Verdict
My top pick is the Disklok Security Wheel Lock, which is an enclosed lock with multiple features that delay or stop thieves completely. The Club 3000 and Zone Tech Universal Anti-Theft Steering Wheel Lock are solid picks for those on a budget.
Things to Consider Before Buying A Steering Wheel Lock
Key Features
Fit
Modern steering wheels are similar in size, but some models have unique quirks that warrant a universal fit wheel lock to avoid guesswork. If you’re driving an 18-wheeler or similarly sized vehicle, consider finding a specialty lock.
Visibility
A key deterrent to theft is the visibility of an obstacle. That means you’ll want a lock with bright color and bulk that can be spotted from far away. If thieves can see what they need to deal with before coming close to your car, you’re much better off.
Construction
You’ll want a steering wheel lock resistant to physical attacks. If a thief decides to break into your car, even after spotting that wheel lock, assume that they’ve got the toolbox to tackle it. Hardened steel or steel alloys make it much harder for a thief to succeed.
Other Considerations
- Size: Although bigger is usually better when it comes to steering wheel locks, keep in mind how much space it will take when stored away. Choose a wheel lock that’s the right size so you won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of more bulk than you need.
- Ease of use: Some steering wheel locks have more connection points than others, making them more secure but also difficult to use. Balance convenience and security so that you’re never discouraged from using it.
- Guarantee: Some manufacturers offer a warranty or a guarantee that your car won’t be stolen. If you’re unlucky enough for it to happen, their guarantee pays for part or all of your insurance deductible.
- Locking mechanism: A poorly made locking mechanism can be easily broken with tools or brute force.
- Padding: If you’re worried about damage to your steering wheel from metal edges, find a wheel lock featuring soft padding around latch points.
Steering Wheel Lock Pricing
You may find some good steering wheel locks for under $50. You could spend several hundred dollars on one, but for the most part, you should be able to find a durable one for under $100. That’s not bad for peace of mind.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
A: An improperly sized lock can leave scuff marks or scratches, but one with the right size shouldn’t be a problem with proper care and use. In any case, you can always put a fabric scrap or cloth between the lock and your steering wheel to avoid leaving marks and scratches.
A: This will largely depend on the steering wheel lock’s design. For the conventional bar type, just extend the lock until both hook-ends fix themselves on opposite spokes of the steering wheel, then lock it in place with the key.
A: If you can locate your spare key, try that first. If you’ve managed to lose that too, then call a locksmith before attempting anything drastic like using a hacksaw.
A: Any steering wheel lock that’s built strong enough to resist tampering will work well, but we feel that a well-constructed wheel-to-pedal lock is particularly effective since it prevents both your steering wheel and pedal from being used.
