Home tools Buyer's Guides from tech enthusiast who loves technology and clever solutions for better living.
Best steering wheel lock 2018 – [Buyer’s Guide]
Last Updated September 1, 2023
Hey, I’m Willard Lawson. After more than 47 hours of research, including interviewing two experts and spending 10 hours testing 22 popular steering wheel lock, I found the best steering wheel lock of 2018.
I have been writing about technology and entertainment since the early 90s from my secluded home in West Virginia. You see I’m an average member of the public just like you and the main reason I decided to publish a review website on steering wheel lock is because I was looking for one not so long ago.
Best steering wheel lock of 2018
You can make a choice based on the my list as you shop. There is a wide range of products available on the market today, and below I have reviewed 3 of the very best options. The rating is based on multiple factors: The 3 metrics ‐ Design, Materials, Performance, and other indicators such as: Popularity, Opinions, Brand, Reputation and more. Customers need to be careful on how they spend their money on these products.
Test Results and Ratings
| Rank | №1 | №2 | №3 |
| Product |  |
 |
 |
| Total | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
| Style |
5 points
|
5 points
|
5 points
|
| Size |
5 points
|
5 points
|
4 points
|
| Construction |
4 points
|
4 points
|
4 points
|
| Price |
5 points
|
4 points
|
4 points
|
| Awards |  |
||
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the steering wheel lock by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
№1 – Car Lock
| Total: |
4.8
|
Why did this steering wheel lock win the first place?
I really enjoy the design. It is compact, comfortable and reliable. And it looks amazing! I am very happy with the purchase. It is definitely worth its money. The product is top-notch! The product is very strong. Its material is stable and doesn’t crack. I also liked the delivery service that was fast and quick to react. It was delivered on the third day.
5
|
5
|
4
|
5
|
№2 – Car Lock
| Total: |
4.5
|
Why did this steering wheel lock come in second place?
This is a pretty decent product that perfectly fitted the interior of our office. The material is pretty strong and easy to wash if needed. Managers explained me all the details about the product range, price, and delivery. I recommend you to consider buying this model, it definitely worth its money.
5
|
5
|
4
|
4
|
№3 – Safstar Wheel Lock Clamp Boot Tire Claw Trailer Auto Car Truck Anti-Theft Towing
| Total: |
4.3
|
Why did this steering wheel lock take third place?
We are very pleased with the purchase — the product is great! It doesn’t squeaks nor bents. Looks great in my apartment. This price is appropriate since the product is very well built. It is inconvenient to use due to the size. I am going to get something different next time.
5
|
4
|
4
|
4
|
steering wheel lock Buyer’s Guide
How to avoid keyless car theft
Yet an old-fashioned steering lock can persuade a hi-tech thief to look elsewhere. And the basics remain the same as in our first tests in the mid-nineties – a bright colour is best so thieves notice the extra security, while devices to stop the wheel, gearlever or pedals being moved will help prevent a car being driven away.
Rating: ★★★★☆
There wasn’t much between our remaining three, which could be defeated relatively quickly once their weak spot had been identified. This lasted the longest, and was noisy to remove. It was made of thicker materials than similar rivals and couldn’t be forced off without tools. Plus, it could be hooked around a spoke for added security, but we could not see how it wouldn’t be defeated by a wheel cut as claimed on pack. Fitting was easy, helping make this our budget pick.
These wheel locks fit into aftermarket-vehicles. The lug-nut fits into a smaller lug-holes, as the diameter is thinner. These locks feature a closed-end design, larger seating surface, and also have more gripping power.
Extended stug-engagement is enabled, which makes these easy to install on aftermarket cars, and also makes them ideal for vehicles which have a narrower diameter lug-design.
Alloy Wheel Locks
These are typically sold directly through the vehicle manufacturer. They are sturdy, made of a solid alloy material finish, and they require a specialty socket, which is designed by the manufacturer, in order for you to be able to remove the lock.
Clamp Wheel Lock
As the name implies, this is a clamp which is placed around the wheel, and the rims, in order to protect both from thieves. They are often referred to as a “boot,” which is a device that doesn’t allow you to move/drive your vehicle, until the clamp is removed.
Although these are a bit larger in nature, and harder to utilize daily, they can be used sporadically for optimal security if you are parking your car in a dangerous area, or new location you aren’t familiar with.
A Quick Tip: Glance over the type of car you own and the model you are choosing for the car (more on that in the latter part of the article) before you hit on the buy button.
Now that we are done with wheel lock types, we can move to the next section of the article which discusses my very own shortlist of the top candidates available on the market.
The triple-lock system.
Heavy-duty steel frame, can’t be broken or unhinged with tools.
You can tighten the clamp to specifically fit your wheels for added security.
The clamp features an epoxy coating, so rain or elements won’t cause it to rust.
Security, durability, and advanced internal mechanism; these are a few of the features owners will appreciate with this wheel lock clamp. It is easy to install, and affords three additional layers of security to vehicle owners.
Features of the McGard locks include
Unique groove design. The interior rigid design and ultra-narrow entry, doesn’t allow burglars or thieves easy access to the inter-locking system.
The micro-porous chrome exterior isn’t susceptible to rust or other element-damage.
The hex-size patterns allow you to easily fit your new lugs onto most SUV tires.
An infinite number of installation patterns makes it virtually impossible for thieves to break in, and remove these from your tires.
You’re probably familiar with Gorilla glues; and, if so you know how powerful they are. Just imagine what the Gorilla Acorn Guards are going to afford you with, in terms of added security, when it comes to your car’s tires and rims.
12mmX1.5’’ thread size allows you to seamlessly install these wheel locks onto your car’s tires with the respective tool that will come with your lock.
A 60-degree conical seat is virtually impossible to break into; and, even if thieves are capable of accessing the interior of the lug set, they are virtually impossible to remove from your tires.
Your purchase comes with 4-wheel locks and the key, which is required for installation and removal. The lugs can’t be removed with a traditional wrench or power tools.
Highlighted Features
The bright-red finish helping to deter thieves from trying to steal your car.
The patented, self-locking feature, renders your car useless while this is in place.
A sturdy, tempered-steel design, coated with a PVC-finish, protects your club investment. It won’t fade, or otherwise get damaged by sun, and it is rust-resistant, even in harsh or inclement weather-areas.
A longer length-design, allows you to place this U-shaped club on nearly any steering wheel, regardless of the interior size/wheel area of your car.
Suitable for tires up to 14’’ in width, this system by McGard features a conical shape-design for ease of installation. It will fit into place, implementing a cone-seat style design. It features both 2and 2mm hex-dual systems for different vehicles you plan on installing the lugs onto.
With this set, you will receive a set of 4-locks and one key. The smooth-exterior makes this lock-system easy to install. However, the internal, rigid-lock mechanism, makes this nearly impossible to break or remove, if you do not have the appropriate key to do so.
Even the most heavy-duty power drills, or plier sets, aren’t going to break into this thread lug-set once they are properly installed onto your tires.
Additional features of this set include: A universal fit for cars, trucks, trailers, or SUV models, allows you to place these lugs on your investment, especially with newer vehicles, or aftermarket-rims you choose to install onto your car.
The ability to install your new lug-set onto tires up to 14’’ in width.
OEM standards are met in terms of: construction, durability, and material finish.
Powder-coating prevents rust and corrosion once installed onto your tires.
User-friendly keys. This is the only way to install, replace, or to remove the lugs. Without it, power tools and wrenches are rendered useless in the event a thief tries to steal your tires and rims.
A universal fit for cars, trucks, trailers, or SUV models, allows you to place these lugs on your investment, especially with newer vehicles, or aftermarket-rims you choose to install onto your car.
These genuine- Honda lug wheel locks, are specifically designed for your Honda manufactured vehicle. They feature a chrome-plated exterior design. Made of sturdy, high-quality nickel, nothing is going to rust, damage, or corrode these lugs once they are installed onto your Honda.
The triple-nickel finish not only brings out the natural shine in your new lock set, but also helps to prevent from rusting if you live in a region where rain or snow are frequently present. A hardened-steel construction is also theft-resistant.
If you do not have the appropriate key, you aren’t capable of prying these off any car, or otherwise using power tool sets to remove them from tires and rim sets.
Features of this club include
The universal fit. Even for smaller tires/vehicles, you can place the club on for protection.
Deterrence. Simply placing this over your tires will deter thieves and burglars.
Soft-coated interior. The clamp won’t damage tires, puncture them, or damage your costly rims.
The wheels are immobilized with installation. Nothing will move the tires with this clamp over them.
The Brand
Sure, you should consider the brand before you invest in a wheel lock system. High-quality items are typically made by and sold by the top manufacturers. So, even if it does cost a little more money for this protection, it is worth the investment for your car and rims to be fully protected.
Use and Installation Process
Of course, you want the best in protection. However, you don’t want to purchase something you won’t know how to use or install. Before you purchase your clamp or lugs, make sure it is something you will actually use, know how to install, and can properly install, in order to ensure they are actually going to protect your car, in the manner they should protect it.
Guarantee
It is important to choose a product which guarantees effectiveness. Look for those items which guarantee the benefits of protection, while also offering you some kind of money back guarantee or deductible, in the event a break-in occurs while the deterrent system is installed on your vehicle.
A company’s guarantee is one of the most important things imaginable, which informs you that you are buying a well-made product, and one which will work as it is intended to work.
This shouldn’t be the highest factor on your list, nor should it be the deciding factor. But, like any other purchase you make, when comparing products, you have to consider the cost. Cost of maintenance, improvements, replacement, and so forth. It is also a good idea to compare different sites and stores, in order to find the best deal when you have decided on the system you are going to use for your vehicle’s protection.
Ultimately, every vehicle owner is going to choose something different when it comes to protecting their vehicle(like car), the tires, and the rims. With this in mind, using these variables when comparing and considering these items, is a good way to help you pick the right protective-items for your lovely vehicle. Make sure you consider these factors, in order to ensure you choose the best wheel locking-protective systems available.
Deter Theft
A huge security-gate at the front of a home is a deterrent to thieves. The same rule applies when it comes to your car. Imagine if there is a huge, bright and yellow lock on the wheel. This is immediately going to deter thieves to a less-risky vehicle, making yours less of a target.
Immobilizing Device
In the event a thief/burglar invades your space, these motion sensors will prevent theft. If anyone comes into your space, or tries to steal something, motion detectors/sensors are a simple way to prevent certain types of theft. If any form of unwarranted motion (light sensitivity) is activated, the alarm will sound.
As a vehicle owner, you want to take as many precautions as possible to protect your vehicle. These are some of the systems available to you today, to protect your car.
Many manufacturers today have built-in, high-tech alarm systems. Many insurance companies also offer great discounts if you have these newer systems, as you are considered to be a “safer” (less risky) client to insure. Regardless of the options you eventually choose to go with, consider these when deciding upon the best ways to protect your vehicle.
At some point, the Club was mentioned. The professional thieves laughed and exchanged knowing glances. What we knew was that the Club is a hardened steel device that attaches to the steering wheel and the brake pedal to prevent steering and/or braking. What we found out was that a pro thief would carry a short piece of a hacksaw blade to cut through the plastic steering wheel in a couple seconds. They were then able to release The Club and use it to apply a huge amount of torque to the steering wheel and break the lock on the steering column (which most cars were already equipped with). The pro thieves actually sought out cars with The Club on them because they didn’t want to carry a long pry bar that was too hard to conceal.
How to make your car theft-proof
Next, make it difficult for the car to move off quickly. Some people have observed that Singaporeans like to park with the rear in, as opposed to seasoned Malaysian drivers who prefer parking head in. There’s a reason for this madness – parking with the rear in increases the time needed to steal the vehicle. Remember the hungry-lion metaphor.
Batteries
One of the biggest factors is the battery voltage. This – along with the wattage of the motor(s) – determines how powerful the car is. The lowest priced cars have 6V batteries and therefore are quite slow and may not cope with steep hills or rough terrain.
The next step up is 12V, but you’ll also see 24V and 36V.
As voltage rises, so does price, but more powerful toys tend to offer multiple speeds as well. This can be a benefit as a child can grow into a car, starting off with the slowest speed and graduating to the higher speed when they’ve learned to control the car.
Watch out for cars that lack reverse, and find out how long the battery lasts between charges, and how long it takes to charge, too.
Age range
Most manufacturers will state the age range for the car, and since you’ll be spending quite a bit of money, it’s worth getting a car that the child can grow into and enjoy for several years.
The limiting factor will be the maximum weight the car can take.
Remote control
Cars that come with remote controls offer extra safety, as the parent can steer or stop the car to avoid it crashing into anything. Note that this is almost always selected by a switch which determines whether the car is controlled by the child or the remote control, so you can’t override their driving remotely.
Design
The manufacturer is known for creating amazing replicas of this racing steering wheel and pedals for Xbox One. The 45spider wheel is a 7/replica of the original steering wheel. It has a red rubber finish, and of course, the Ferrari logo that gives this model a nice, realistic accent, rather than being just being another hardware piece.
Comfort
This spider racing wheel is light, making it comfortable to use while on your lap. This is good news if you do not have the needed mount to attach to your wheel.
It comes with a rubber padding that feels really pleasant, and ideal for long playing sessions. The buttons are all easy to access, with a size that is ideal even for those who have smaller hands.
Dual-Motor Force Feedback
With the use of a dual-motor force feedback, you can enjoy the experience of feeling each weight shift, as well as every tire slip.
This means that you can feel the tires in each turn and in every terrain type that you play on. This is a realistic approach to your game.
Precision Control
This Logitech Xbox one steering wheel is also equipped with precision control features, such as the use of helical gears. These gears have been modeled after the actual gears that are used in real automotive transmissions, with the goal of reducing unnecessary vibration and noise.
Responsive Pedal
The pedal of this Logitech steering wheel Xbox one is adjustable, making it capable of offering maximum control. With this feature, you can keep a realistic position of your body while driving with its separate floor peal that comes with brake, throttle, as well as clutch pedals.
Dual Rotation Settings
This racing steering wheel comes with a dual rotation setting which is ideal for both arcade and simulation gaming. It is switchable with either 270 or 900 degrees, lock-to-lock rotation. The 270 degree is ideal for arcade gaming, while the 900-degree setting allows you to experience a full simulation mode.
Compatible with Future Updates
The two facets of this racing wheel are designed and ready for possible updates in the future. The wheel face which is mounted on a detachable boss can be taken from the shaft, enabling a hassle-free swapping. The firmware of the internal computer chip is also upgradeable.
Long-lasting Construction
The use of genuine suede leather covering the steering wheel made of aluminum ensures the durability of this model. The pedals are also aluminum faced, thus employing non-contact and position sensing technology that further enhances reliability and longevity.
Brushless Industrial Motor
If you are looking for power, you will be satisfied in knowing that this model uses a brushless industrial motor. This translates to ultra-smooth force feedback without any clogging. It is also super responsive and realistic, almost without any latency.
Versatile Attachment Systems
The versatility of the attachment systems designed with this Xbox one steering wheel makes it more convenient to use. The pedal set is made of metal, which is one reason why it is best for long travel. The brake pedal also features progressive resistance.
Basic Features
Since this racing wheel is a budget option, you also have to expect that it comes with basic features. It is equipped with a wheel which can be rotated up to 270 degrees, as well as a foot pedal set.
It does not come with force feedback or vibration. As basic as they are, they have what you need to enjoy a satisfying gaming experience.
Ideal Starter Wheel
As a budget friendly option, this Xbox One steering wheel is an ideal starter wheel.
This means that it can be a good choice for kids or even adults who fancy some ‘casual’ racing and do not need all the fancier features present in more expensive models.
One Mounting Option
This HORI Racing Wheel uses suction cups to hold it right in place on any desk or table. It does not come with clamps.
Since this is the only option that is available, you may need to find a glass table or smooth finished surface to mount your wheel.
Consistent Force Feedback
The consistency of the force feedback is one of the first things that you will notice about this model. This consistency offers variable force when you are attempting to corner a vehicle. This will further enhance your gaming experience with this wheel.
Non-Slip Pedal Set
The non-slip surface used in the pedal set makes reserve drifting easier. You can slap right on the brakes or hit the gas, and the pedals simply stay put. There is also a detachable foot rest which will give a break to your inactive foot.
Light and Small
To some, the lightweight and size of this Thrustmaster T80 racing wheel is a liability.
However, if you look at it regarding practicality, it is easy to conclude that this model is a good option to consider. The wheel motor comes with a plastic casing, including the two pedal set.
Progressive Brake Resistance
The use of progressive brake resistance on this model mimics the actual brake pressure. While it is not possible to adjust the pressure or the throw distance of the wither pedal, it offers enough resistance that will allow you to enjoy your gaming experience.
Bungee Cord Wheel Base
The use of an optimized bungee cord mechanism provides linear resistance.
This is applicable regardless of the angle of rotation implemented, thus making sure of intuitive and ergonomic control. Automatic centering is set at 240-degree rotation angle.
Belt and Pulley Mechanism
The use of belt and pulley mechanism in this model is a huge leap compared to the bungee cord mechanism used in other models under the same brand. While it may not be as amazing as other higher-end models, but it is enough to offer a good simulation of an actual racing feel.
Wheel Rim Center
Another thing our team noticed when using this Xbox one racing wheel is that the wheel rim center column comes with a well-thought out design.
While the rims are just similar to other models produced by the same company, it stands out because the layout is very nice with easy to access buttons.
Effective Button Layout
Having an effective button layout means that all of the buttons are easily accessible. This is particularly helpful in games wherein you have to use your right hand as you drive while hitting another button for the handbrake.
Force Feedback System
This feature does a great job in allowing you to feel the changes in the terrain, as well as that moment when your car starts losing grip.
In fact, you will notice that it fights you physically when you apply too much power, or drift quickly. This brings in more life to your gaming experience.
Paddle Shifters
The paddle shifters used in this model are clicky and firm, providing an input of mm movement, which is enough to help in preventing accidental downshifts in an especially challenging corner. They are also bolted right into the wheel, not to the base, thus improving accessibility.
Pedal Set
Instead of having the usual 3-pedal set with other models, the T300RS only comes with two pedals. This is because of the use of the paddle shifters rather than an actual manual stick. Since it comes with a Thrustmaster connection, however, you can still opt to replace it with a three pedal set later on.
Force Feedback
This system has been around for several years now. However, you cannot actually say that all Xbox 360 racing wheels and pedals have it. As a matter of fact, the ones that belong to the low-priced category may not have it. Some models position themselves as force vibration wheels, not force feedback. This means that the wheel will provide vibration, without the use of a motor inside which can add resistance to the gaming wheel.
Wheel Diameter
Most Xbox one racing wheels are created to replicate the original wheels. As a matter of fact, some are licensed to mimic the look of a popular option. However, the wheel diameter plays a vital role in terms of quality. Cheaper wheels are generally small, with a limited range of rotation. If you want to expect a more realistic experience, you can go for a 1inches in diameter wheel, with up to 100 degrees of wheel rotation.
Supported Platforms
A steering wheel that can support multiple platforms is better in terms of value compared to one that is solely built for a specific platform alone. Most models cater to Xbox One and PC compatibility, while others open up to include PSand PSsystems in their list of supported platforms.
Vibration
Vibration is a feature that is considered an ‘asset’ when it comes to the best racing wheels. If a model is equipped with a vibration feature, it means that you can rightfully expect a more realistic experience because you can actually feel the movement of your wheels as you change terrains, bump with another vehicle, or encounter any movement along the road.
Wheel Rotation
The wheel rotation capability of a certain the best racing wheels is measured in degree angles. Cheaper racing steering wheels tend to have limited rotation capability, such as 240 or 270 degrees. Others however, allow for 1080 degrees, or a full 360 lock-to-lock wheel rotation capacity. One thing is clear here, the better the rotation capability, the better driving experience and control you can get.
Number of Buttons
When it comes to the number of buttons found in racing steering wheels, there is no specific standard that is applied. As a matter of fact, every Xbox one steering wheel is slightly different from the others. Some have buttons, and some go as high as 1Some of these steering wheels also come with a D-Pad. Even the arrangement of the buttons may vary from one model to another.
Weight
Weight matters to some gamers. This has often something to do with the mounting options designed for a certain model. While some wheels can easily be clamped onto a desk, table or cockpit, some users prefer resting it on their lap. This is where weight plays an important role in terms of comfort and convenience. Also, when playing, when the weight of a wheel is heavier, it automatically translates to the possibility of difficulty in controlling it.
Wheel Size
The size of the Xbox one steering wheel is not really a big deal, however, when preferences kick in, size matters. Some users prefer smaller wheels, especially those with smaller hands, while others prefer those with bigger dimensions. One reason is that bigger wheel sizes mimic the original wheels.
Wheel
One thing to understand here is that different racing wheels offer different features and characteristics. The layout of the buttons, and the overall design may differ from one model to another. However, there are some characteristics that make a good wheel.
Pedals
A racing wheel is not complete without the pedals. Therefore, it is wise to purchase a bundled set. If you are purchasing an inexpensive set, you may have to expect pedals that are made out of plastic, supported by a spring. While this may be fine, it may not be the most durable option. Those that are more robust are the ones that are made out of quality materials and advanced features. For example, they are made of metal or other durable materials, and are equipped with a sensor technology also known as ‘load cell’. This feature measures pressure, instead of the position. This will give a more realistic simulation to actual gaming.
Clutch
Another very important feature that you need to take into consideration is whether your gearbox should come with a clutch. If you opt to have one, you can experience a more realistic simulation of the experience. While some of the best racing wheels that do not come with a clutch they can still do shifting, but that depends on the paddles that are behind the wheels, rather than getting it from a dedicated shifter.
How to save up to 86%? Here is little trick.
You must visit the page of sales. Here is the link. If you don’t care about which brand is better, then you can choose the steering wheel lock by the price and buy from the one who will offer the greatest discount.
Final Word
First of all thanks for reading my article to the end! I hope you find my reviews listed here useful and that it allows you to make a proper comparison of what is best to fit your needs and budget. Don’t be afraid to try more than one product if your first pick doesn’t do the trick.
Most important, have fun and choose your steering wheel lock wisely! Good luck!
So, TOP3 of steering wheel lock
- №1 — Car Lock
- №2 — Car Lock
- №3 — Safstar Wheel Lock Clamp Boot Tire Claw Trailer Auto Car Truck Anti-Theft Towing
Questions? Leave a comment below!
Chatting about steering wheel lock is my passion! Leave me a question in the comments, I answer each and every one and would love to get to know you better!
