Last Updated on February 22, 2025 by Alan Weir
When it comes to keeping your vehicle secure, steering wheel locks can be a topic of great debate among car owners. As an experienced car locksmith, I’ve seen both sides of the coin when it comes to these trusty yet divisive devices. Some swear by them as an essential part of their car security strategy, while others deem them ineffective and even cumbersome.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the pros and cons of aftermarket steering wheel locks, and hopefully, by the end, you’ll have a clearer view of their value in the realm of vehicle security.
The Pros of Aftermarket Steering Wheel Locks
1. Visible Deterrent:
One of the key benefits of installing a steering wheel lock is that it serves as a visible deterrent for potential car thieves. Oftentimes, opportunistic thieves are looking for easy targets. They prefer vehicles that appear unprotected, and simply having a steering lock in plain sight can give them second thoughts. When they spot that bright, chunky piece of metal wrapped around your steering wheel, they might just decide to move along to an easier mark.
2. Ease of Use:
These devices are generally quite easy to install and remove. Most usually come with a straightforward mechanism that can be locked and unlocked with minimal fuss. In a matter of seconds, you can secure your car, which is especially handy if you’re parked in a busy area or need to stop for just a moment. It’s a fast and efficient way to add an additional layer of security.
3. Cost-Effective Security:
Let’s face it – not everyone can afford fancy alarm systems or state-of-the-art immobilisers. Steering wheel locks are relatively inexpensive compared to those high-tech options. You can find a reliable one for a fraction of the cost of your average car security system. Investing in a good steering lock can be a small price to pay for peace of mind.
4. No Electronics Needed:
Another bonus is that steering wheel locks don’t rely on any electronic systems. Batteries can fail, and wiring can be tampered with, but a solid mechanical lock is a different beast altogether. There’s something reassuring about a simple, physical lock that’s not vulnerable to electronic interference or hacking.
5. Versatility:
These locks work on nearly any vehicle, which makes them incredibly versatile. Whether you have a small hatchback or a larger SUV, there’s a steering lock out there that’s designed for your steering wheel’s specifics. This broad applicability means you can share the lock across different vehicles ought to the need arise.
The Cons of Aftermarket Steering Wheel Locks
1. Limited Effectiveness Against Determined Thieves:
While a steering wheel lock can deter casual thieves, seasoned criminals may not be so easily discouraged. If a thief is determined enough and has the right tools, a steering lock can be broken quite easily. A pair of bolt cutters or a bit of force can render it useless. This is a significant downside if you’re relying solely on one type of security measure.
2. Bulky and Awkward:
Let’s be honest — steering wheel locks can be bulky and awkward to use. They take up space in your vehicle, and for some, the process of attaching and detaching them could become a hassle, especially if you’re in a rush. Not to mention, they can be heavy, and that might not mesh well with the aesthetic of your car’s interior.
3. False Sense of Security:
One of the biggest pitfalls of using a steering wheel lock is the false sense of security it can provide. Many drivers may believe that just because they’ve taken this step, their vehicle is completely secure. In reality, it’s important to think of these locks as just one layer in a more comprehensive security strategy. Relying solely on a steering lock could lead to complacency, and that’s never a good thing.
4. Wear and Tear on the Steering Wheel:
If you’re using a steering wheel lock regularly, it may lead to wear and tear on your steering wheel. The constant pressure and friction from the lock can cause damage over time, which can be a concern for car owners who want to maintain their vehicle’s interior.
5. Potential for Compatibility Issues:
Not all steering wheel locks fit all vehicles. It’s not uncommon for owners to find out after purchase that their particular model of steering wheel lock doesn’t work well with the design of their steering wheel. This can lead to wasted time and money, and can even turn into a frustrating experience, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Balancing the Equation
When it comes down to it, the effectiveness of aftermarket steering wheel locks has a lot to do with personal circumstances and how they fit into your overall vehicle security plan. If you’re in an area prone to vehicle crime or tend to park in less secure spots, a steering wheel lock might be a wise addition. Meanwhile, if your vehicle isn’t often left unattended or if you’re already investing in more sophisticated security measures, you may choose to skip it.
Additionally, think about your habits. Are you someone who takes the time to ensure their car is locked and secure each time? If you effectively lock your car and have other precautions in place, adding a steering lock might be redundant. However, if you’re a busy person who finds themselves leaving their vehicle in questionable areas, then taking the extra step to secure it with a steering wheel lock may certainly be worthwhile.
Complementing Other Security Measures
Consider your steering wheel lock as just one part of a bigger puzzle. Layer your security; while a steering lock serves to deter would-be thieves, couple it with an alarm system, a reliable immobiliser, or even a GPS tracker. Diversifying your defence can increase your overall vehicle security and significantly decrease the likelihood of becoming a victim of car theft.
At the end of the day, the choice to use an aftermarket steering wheel lock comes down to your personal preferences and circumstances. Whether you view it as a vital piece of your security arsenal, or prefer to lean towards different methods, your vehicle’s safety ultimately rests on your vigilance and choices. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering your unique situation, to decide what works best for you.
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
