Earlier, people believed that car thefts will decline in the modern era. With the technological advancements and amazing security features, it will get extremely difficult for thieves to break into a car, let alone stealing it. Well, while modern car owners are using the latest technology to keep their cars safe from intruders, the tech-savvy thieves always find a way to break into the car.
Even mobilizers and keyless entry systems can’t guarantee the safety of your vehicle. That being said, more and more car owners are shifting to traditional security features. It might be easy for a thief to clone the car keys, but getting past the heavy-duty metal attached to the car’s steering wheel will be a hard nut to crack. Do you know approx 3,000 cars and other four-wheelers are stolen in the United States every year? A modern and expensive car is a long-term investment. Thieves have started to utilize new technology to steal your vehicle. It is getting quite difficult for car owners to ensure the safety of their vehicles.
What Is A Steering Wheel Lock?
The steering wheel lock is one of the traditional yet effective anti-theft locks that is designed to immobilize the steering wheel of a car. It prevents the thief and intruders from moving or turning the steering wheel. This anti-theft device locks firmly on the car’s steering wheel. So, it goes without saying that no one can drive the vehicle or move the steering wheel without removing this lock. The car with a steering wheel lock in place cannot be driven and controlled. This keeps the thieves from driving your vehicle or stealing it.
The steering wheel lock is available in different types. The reliability of the lock and the locking mechanism depends on the model you choose. Basically, this lock is a strong metal bar attached to the steering wheel. It impedes the wheel’s movement and thus keeps thieves from driving your car.
It might be possible to turn on the engine, but you cannot control the vehicle’s movement with a high-quality and secure wheel lock on. This is especially recommended for car owners that are looking for a reliable solution to ensure the security of their car. No thief will want to struggle with the lock system. They are going to have to use power tools to break the heavy-duty metal bar, which is extremely inconvenient and tricky.
1. Disklok Security Device – Silver Steering Wheel Lock
This advanced steering wheel security unit features some impressive features that make it an ideal option for traditional and modern car owners. It features a reliable, full cover design. Disklok Security Device – Silver Steering Wheel Lock is an enclosed lock system that gets wrapped around the steering wheel, offering full security. Make sure you check the length, size, and width of the lock before making a purchase. The model is available in three sizes.
It is designed in a way that the lock spins when a thief breaches the security. The USP of the brand is its spinning design, which makes it unique from the other enclosed steering wheel locks. It features a side locking pin, which features the anti-pick design for advanced security. Even if the intruder tries a million combinations, they won’t be able to unlock this patented-design wheel lock. As soon as someone tries to open the lock, the 10 disks start to spin. Made of hardened steel, this wheel lock by Disklok is hard to bypass. The company sends three keys – 1 original and 2 spare sets. Make sure you store them separately so that you can unlock the system with a spare key if you lose the original one.
The best part is you can get a duplicated key from the manufacturer if you lose and misplace all the keys. You only need to send the tag number of the original key to the manufacturer to get a spare key designed. Rest assured the duplicate key is as effective as the original one. Overall, the patented design, spinning feature, and advanced safety make Disklok Security Device – Silver Steering Wheel Lock the best lock system for car owners.
Features
- Available in 3 different sizes
- Made of hardened steel
- Powerful steering wheel immobilizer
- Universal compatibility
- Manufacturer warranty of 3 years
The Pros
- Patented design
- High-quality construction
- Sturdy and durable materials
- Easy to install
- Duplicate keys are available
The Cons
- You need to note the measurements of your steering wheel
2. Winner International The Club Twin Hooks Wheel Lock
The Club Twin Hooks is one of the best security gadgets for traditional and modern four-wheelers. It locks the steering wheel firmly, thus making it nearly impossible for an intruder or a thief to steal the vehicle. The USP of the brand is its patented design featuring twin hooks. This keyless locking unit features a durable and sturdy design. Winner International is a reputable brand that’s famous for launching some of the best security gadgets in the market. In addition to the steering wheel locks, the company has launched a plethora of advanced security devices for everyday applications. This exclusive lock is made of heavy-duty Cro-moly steel, which has the potential to resist hammer, saw, and other Freon attacks
With the Winner International The Club Twin Hooks Wheel Lock in place, you can rest assured your car will be safe no matter how crowded the place is. The best part about this steering wheel lock is its versatility. You can use it on a wide range of four-wheelers, including SUVs, vans, cars, hatchbacks, and more.
Features
- Twin hook design
- Robust and durable build quality
- Universal compatibility
- Patented self-lock design
- Advanced lock housing
- Made of Cro-moly steel
The Pros
- Strong build quality and overall construction
- Versatile
- Made to last for years
- Tough lock mechanism
- Innovative steering wheel lock
The Cons
- It might be a little difficult to unlock the steering wheel lock
3. Eforcar Universal Car Auto Security Rotator Wheel Lock
If you are going to need to install the steering wheel locks frequently, then it’s best to invest in an easy-to-install lock system. Eforcar Universal Car Auto Security Rotator Wheel Lock does wonders when it comes to protecting your car from thieves and intruders. Unlike the standard locks, this model locks on the top of your car’s steering wheel and touches the surface of the dashboard. It covers the entire wheel, making it impossible to steer. With this lock system on, the wheel can’t be turned even the slightest.
Eforcar Universal Car Auto Security Rotator is an aluminum-made wheel lock. It is portable and extremely lightweight. It can also be used for self-defense purposes. You can store the model inside your car and install it anytime you want. This key-based steering wheel lock is shipped with two keys. Remember that it’s impossible to duplicate its keys. Available in a bright yellow color, this auto-security rotator steering wheel lock is the best option for all types of cars. The cylinder is made of zinc alloy. Rest assured the sponge pad will not leave stains on the steering wheel.
Features
- Made of Aluminum alloy
- Adjustable size
- Fits most type of four-wheelers
- Cylinder key
- Easy and convenient storage
The Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Durable
- Dual-functions
- Unique design
- Easy to mou
- Blocks all steering movements
The Cons
- The car keys cannot be duplicated if lost
- The lock does not fit the cars with flat center console
4. LC Prime Steering Wheel Lock
With an innovative design and high-security features, LC Prime Steering Wheel Lock guarantees the protection of almost all types of four-wheelers. It features a password-protection design, which makes it easier for car owners to lock and unlock the system conveniently. You get to choose the 5-digit password combination to lock the steering wheel of your car. No need to worry about getting your car keys misplaced and lost with this premium steering wheel lock system. You can reset your password multiple times.
Even if some intruder attempts to guess the password by trying multiple combinations, there is no way they will be able to get the right combination. Another interesting feature is its build quality. The anti-cut alloy materials are designed in a way that it’s physically impossible to smash the system. The lock can resist saw, hammer, and even drill. You could also use it as a self-defense device. The installation process is quite simple. You get to lock the steering wheel lock system just like the key-based unit. The only difference is you have to remember your password in the LC Prime Steering Wheel Lock.
Features
- Password-based lock system
- Compatible with most cars
- Hydraulic shear
- Multi-functional
- 60-day warranty
The Pros
- Easy to install
- Comes packed with add-ons
- Resist saw, hammer, drill, and other heavy-duty tools
- Excellent texture
- Solid construction
- Heavy-duty materials
The Cons
- No Cons
5. The Club LX Series Steering Wheel Lock
The easy-to-install and advanced safety features make The Club LX Series Steering Wheel Lock a number one choice for car owners. You only need to move the lock once to build a strong lock around the steering wheel. You do not need to use the keys to lock the steering wheel. It features a patented design and heavy-duty materials, which are made to last for years. The materials can resist all forms of physical pressure.
The laser-cut key design is nearly impossible to imitate. The thief can’t even use a master key to try to pass through the lock. Its universal compatibility makes it a perfect fit for different car models. It can be mounted on SUVs, vans, and even compact cars. The keys sport a convenient design. The manufacturers send 3 laser cut keys. Make sure you keep them in separate places so that you can have the spare key handy if you lose the original one.
Features
- 3 laser cut keys
- Patented design
- Universal compatibility
- Adjustable length
- Resist saw, hammer, and other tools
The Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Sturdy construction
- High-security features
- Spare key sets
- Unique design
The Cons
- Heavyweight
- Not available in bright colors
6. The Club 900 Steering Wheel Lock
If you are looking out for a cost-effective and high-security lock mechanism for your steering wheel, then The Club 900 Steering Wheel Lock can be your best pick. You could even buy this tool for multiple cars. Not only is it affordable, but The Club 900 Steering Wheel Lock is designed to fit different types of cars ranging from compact vehicles to SUVs. Its adjustable design makes it quite a convenient solution.
Like other Winner International steering wheel lock systems, this patented design comes in a bright yellow color that deters thieves before they try to break into your car. The color makes the model visible at all times. The company has manufactured this efficient and convenient solution with heavy-duty steel. It also sports vinyl coating for extra security. Considering its strong construction and innovative design, it goes without saying that The Club 900 Steering Wheel Lock can guarantee full security. You cannot move the steering without getting past this lock mechanism.
Features
- Bright yellow color
- Universal compatibility for most types of four-wheelers
- Made of steel and vinyl
- Winner International product
The Pros
- Visible
- Durable
- Versatile
- Lightweight and portable design
- Heavy-duty materials
The Cons
- The manufacturing label states that the product can cause cancer.
7. AllExtreme CQ6068 Universal Car Steering Wheel Lock
Designed specifically to prevent unauthorized access to the steering system, you could use The Club 1000 Original Car Steering Wheel Lock mechanism to build a strong lock around the wheel.
The wheel lock features bright red color that is enough to deter the thief and keep your car safe. The Club 1000 Original Car Steering Wheel Lock is the buyers’ number one choice. This anti-theft steering wheel lock is compatible with car’s and trucks’ steering wheel. Made of Cro-moly steel, the model is known for its amazing build quality. It can resist hammer, saw, drill, and other tools.
The lock comes with a one-year warranty. As far as the reliability of the brand is concerned, this product is manufactured and sold by Winner International, which has a great reputation in the marketing. The solid build quality of the model gives car owners a peace of mind. It is quite lightweight and compact, making it easier for users to carry it anywhere they go.
Features
- Steel hooks for easy and tight installation
- Multi-segment design
- Heavy-duty materials
- Made of Cro-Moly Steel
- Solid build quality
- Universal steering wheel lock
- Compatible with steering wheels that ranges from 8.75 inches to 14 inches
The Pros
- High-quality construction
- Fits all types of cars
- Tough hooks
- Easy to install
- Durable
The Cons
- It is quite expensive
8. The Club 1234 Basic Club Car Steering Wheel Lock
The Club 1234 Anti-theft Car Steering Wheel Lock is an anti-theft car steering wheel lock system that features unique design keys that are nearly impossible to duplicate. Even if some intruder gets access to your vehicle and turns on the engine, they won’t be able to control the steering wheel. It is a lightweight and portable model. The Club 1234 Anti-theft Car Steering Wheel Lock features solid steel hooks, which makes it stand out from other steering wheel locks on the market.
Made of Cro-Moly steel, this heavy-duty anti-theft lock system can resist numerous theft attacks seamlessly. Once the steering wheel is locked, rest assured it will not move. You can lock and unlock the steering wheel in a matter of seconds. The bar can resist hammering, sawing, and other freon attacks (just like its siblings). Overall, The Club 1234 Anti-theft Car Steering Wheel Lock acts as a physical barrier. It does not allow unauthorized access to the steering wheel of your car. It is a dual-function model. In addition to working as an anti-theft security device, you can use this steering wheel lock for emergency exit.
Features
- Made of Cro-Moly steel
- Resist saw, hammer, and other theft attacks
- Solid hooks
- Compatible with cars, SUVs, vans, and other four-wheelers
- Pristine quality
The Pros
- Universal compatibility
- Durable
- High-level security
- Robust construction
- Easy to use
- Leaves no scratches and marks on your steering wheel
- Lightweight and compact
The Cons
- No cons that we know of
9. ORGANZO Steering Wheel Brake Pedal Lock System
As the name implies, ORGANZO Steering Wheel Brake Pedal Lock System is a wheel to pedal lock unit. It offers added security by locking both the steering wheel and brake pedal. Compatible with all types of personal and commercial four-wheelers, this anti-theft model is designed to resist all sorts of theft attacks. Even a heavy-duty drill cannot smash the system. This wheel cum brake pedal lock system is made of hardened steel.
You can mount the ORGANZO Steering Wheel Brake Pedal Lock System on almost any steering wheel in seconds. The model gives you peace of mind by protecting your vehicle from unauthorized access. You can even fit this anti-theft car lock system on the steering wheel of a truck.
Features
- Brake pedal lock and wheel steering lock system
- Made of hardened steel
- Adjustable length
- Compatible with SUVs, compact cars, vans, and trucks
- Dual-latch locking mechanism
- Resist saw, drill, hammer, and other theft attacks
The Pros
- Universal compatibility
- High-quality materials
- Strong locking mechanism
- Easy to install
- Dual protection
The Cons
- No cons that we know of
10. Fairly Odd Treasures Car Steering Wheel To Brake Pedal Lock System
Fairly Odd Treasures Car Steering Wheel to Brake Pedal Lock System is one of the easy to install systems. You only need to insert the key and turn it in the clockwise direction to unlock this system. The model comes with a rugged and strong material that works wonders for all types of four-wheelers. The best quality of Fairly Odd Treasures Car Steering Wheel to Brake Pedal Lock System is its wheel to pedal lock mechanism. It is nearly impossible for anyone to turn the steer and hit the brake pedal with this lock system on. The manufacturers ship this wheel lock system with 2 keys.
The lock and unlock processes are quite simple. Like other models mentioned on this list, you can unlock the system in a matter of seconds.
Features
- Compatible with most types of four-wheelers
- Not possible to steer and stop the vehicle with the lock system in place
- 27.5 Inches of maximum span
- Rugged construction
The Pros
- Durable
- Versatile
- Heavy-duty materials
- Easy to mount
- High-level security
- Dual protection
The Cons
- No cons that we know of
Factors To Consider When Buying Steering Wheel Lock
With hundreds of wheel lock models available on the market, choosing the best one can be a difficult choice. While some locks work as a physical barrier to the steering wheel, others are only the visual barriers that are not hard to break and detach from the wheel. Here, we are presenting some of the important factors you need to take into consideration when picking a steering wheel lock for your four-wheeler. Let’s take a look:
Materials
The quality of the wheel locks varies by the materials they are made of. Some models feature heavy-duty metal and powerful materials that are extremely reliable. It makes it possible for almost any thief to break into the vehicle. Other models come with low-quality materials that can be smashed with a saw. One of the best steering wheel lock materials for the car wheel is steel lock. However, it doesn’t work alone. It must be backed by a strong key lock. Overall, the material you choose must be strong enough to resist saw and hammer.
Cro-moly happens to be the most popular and expensive material used for steering wheel locks. But, they come with a security warranty. Of course, you can expect more from expensive and high-quality materials. You should also need to check the quality of the keys. You need to select the model that comes with a robust key, that cannot be duplicated. Remember that there is no point in securing the steering wheel with a low-quality and fragile lock system. You must consider the material of the lock and the key to ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Design
Contrary to what you may believe, all types and models of steering wheel locks are penetrable. You need to take the design and build quality of the lock into consideration to determine the quality of the lock system. Comparing designs of the lock system can be difficult for car owners unless you are a mechanic or an automotive expert.
Some designs, however, have become quite popular in this industry. For example, patented design is the car owner’s number one choice as they not only guarantee the safety of the vehicle but offer a great user experience. As mentioned above, even patented-design wheel locks are penetrable. But, it’s hard to access the wheel with a patented lock in place. Some designs lock only the steering wheel, while others lock the brake pedal too. No matter which design you choose, the security of your car will depend on how you install the lock.
Unlock Mechanism
Now, how you are going to unlock the steering wheel lock is also important. You need to search for a device that is convenient for you and challenging for a thief to unlock. You could opt for keyless and key-based designs.
What’s important to note here is that a key-based unlock system will not necessarily be better than the password-lock. Similarly, think twice if you believe the password lock mechanism is convenient and safer than key-based locks.
Visibility
We don’t usually think about the appearance of the car wheel lock. Sure, the primary function of the device is to offer a security guarantee to the car owner. But, that doesn’t mean you can purchase any random lock system. Not only for the aesthetic but the visibility of the steering wheel lock is important for the security purpose as well. Some intruders get inside your car without even noticing the steering wheel lock.
The wheel lock needs to be a deterrent. It should be visible so that the thieves do not even consider breaking into the vehicle. That’s the reason why most manufacturers have started to design the wheel locks with vivid colors. However, even the bright wheel lock can fail to scare the thieves away. So, it’s rather the combination of security features that determine the quality of the wheel lock than the visibility alone.
Strength
As mentioned above, some thieves break into the vehicle even if they can see the steering wheel lock in place. Now, they must have access to a saw, hammer, and other tools if they enter your vehicle with the intention of stealing it. The best quality wheel locks are the ones that can resist all these physical attacks. So, the most important factor to consider when investing in a steering wheel lock is its strength. There is a good chance the thief is going to use a hammer and other powerful tools to smash the system and access the steering wheel.
Considering the fact that the wheel lock is a traditional security gadget, it is possible for an intruder to pass through this lock. However, the more the intruder tries to smash the system, the harder the noise they will generate. As a result, it won’t take long until people hear the noise and catch the thief. In fact, the thief tends to leave the vehicle if it has a strong car wheel lock. Steel alloys are the toughest wheel locks. Breaking them takes a lot more than a hammer or a saw. You should look for similar quality materials.
Compatibility
Most of the wheel locks we have mentioned on this list feature universal compatibility. This means they fit most of the modern style steering wheels seamlessly. But, it is best to take a look at the hook and the structure of the lock for better understanding. The last thing you want is to purchase a wheel lock that does not fit your car’s steering wheel. Usually, these locks can fit any type of car, except for the 18-wheeler truck and other large-sized vehicles.
Types Of Locks
The steering wheel locks mainly come in three types. You can pick the one that fits your budget and requirements. Let’s have a look at the common types of steering wheel locks available on the market.
- Traditional Locks: Most of the car steering wheel locks you find on the market will fall into this category. They feature a bar-shaped design. You can attach it to your steering wheel via the extendable arms and the hooks. Traditional locks are the most common type of steering wheel locks. They offer a secure fit and keep the lock in place.
- Wheel to Pedal: Similar to the traditional model, the wheel to pedal lock features hooks that are used to attach the bar to the steering wheel. It also comes in a bar-shaped design. The major difference between the two is that the wheel to pedal lock features a hook that connects to the brake pedal of the car. This system is an effective option for those who are looking for an advanced security gadget for their four-wheelers. It restricts the movement of the steering wheel as well as the brake pedal.
- Enclosed Lock: Unlike the traditional and wheel to pedal bar-shaped locks, the enclosed steering lock does not feature a hook or a bar that locks the wheel. It rather encloses the steering wheel, making it nearly impossible for a thief to get past this strong steel shell. They are comparatively safer than the other two options mentioned above. The only downside is that these steel locks are quite heavy and large.
Final Considerations
The reputable and leading steering wheel locks manufacturing companies have started designing high-quality and advanced wheel locks. They adhere to strict guidelines. Manufacturers prioritize your satisfaction, and thus offer products that cater to your requirements. If you have never used the steering wheel locks before, know that you do not need to call a professional for installation.
The bar-shaped wheel locks can be connected using the hooks. Just make sure you go over the manufacturer’s instructions on the lock installation. That is all it takes to install the lock on the steering wheel.
Wheel locks need to be used even when you have not parked your vehicle in a crowded place. It may seem quite inconvenient in the beginning to get used to the habit of installing the wheel locks after parking your vehicle. However, it only takes a few days and some practice to learn the right installation technique. Hope this article helped you find the most suitable and reliable car steering wheel lock system for your four-wheeler.
FAQs
- Do Steering Wheel Locks Leave Stains and Hideous Marks on the Wheel?
Mostly, steering wheel lock causes no harm to the surface of the wheel and any other internal component of your vehicle. However, it is important to take proper care of the lock and attach it securely to the steering wheel. If it still concerns you, make sure you place some cloth between the lock and the steering wheel so that the lock does not leave any mark.
- What if I Lose my Keys?
Do not panic if you can’t find your keys. Remember that all wheel locks come with a spare key. So, the first thing you need to do if you lose your lock key is to find the spare one. However, if you do not have access to the spare key and you can’t find the main key to the steering lock, you will need to get the lock detached. Now, getting the lock system removed from the wheel can be challenging. You may need to call a locksmith. Alternatively, you can take it down by a saw or hammer.
However, it can be quite risky. The last thing you want to do is damage the steering wheel in the process. So, it is better you reach out to a professional and licensed locksmith. They will either create another key to the lock or remove the system safely. - Do All Cars Need Steering Wheel Locks?
A steering wheel lock is a security gadget that guarantees the best possible security to the car owners. It also gives you peace of mind. With a proper steering wheel lock system in place, you can rest assured that your car will be safe from intruders. Even traditional models need high-quality security devices for protection. Usually, modern technology does not work in old-school models. Steering wheel locks are compatible with all types and models of the vehicle out on the market. In fact, the older the car is the more security it needs since traditional cars do not feature modern technology.
- Is it Possible for a Thief to Steal a Vehicle with the Steering Wheel Lock?
Yes, it is possible to bypass the steering wheel lock and access the steering wheel. No matter how great the quality of the lock is, these systems are penetrable. This means the intruder can pass through the steering wheel lock. However, they are going to need to use robust tools to break the bar. The longer the steering lock system can resist the hammer and saw, the higher the chances the thief will deter. That’s the reason why manufacturers have designed these locks using durable and sturdy materials.
- Do these locks really work?
Steering wheel locks are designed to deter thieves. However, there is no guarantee a thief will not be able to pass through the locks. If they have access to heavy-duty tools and hammers, there is a possibility they can smash this safety unit and access the steering wheel. We highly recommend you choose a robust and durable steering wheel lock, such as the enclosed locks that are wrapped around the steering wheel for added security. Not only are they hard to break, but such locks deter thieves easily.
