Best Wheel Locks of 2023 — Locking Lug Nuts and Clamps to Stop Thieves

Whether you have standard factory wheels or fancy aftermarket wheels, having them pilfered is something that’s sure to deliver a serious blow to both your wallet and faith in humanity. 

Our detailed guide to the best wheel locks and clamps aims to help save you from ever having to experience this firsthand. Below, we review a selection of our favorite locks before delving into how car wheel locks work, why you should consider getting them, and the pros and cons of the different types available. 

Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for Best Car Wheel Locks

• Gorilla Automotive Acorn Gorilla Guard Locks
  • Four extra-burly steel and chrome-plated locks with a unique design that will thwart any would-be thieves. 
• McGard Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks
  • Come with a unique key that will be the only one capable of removing your locks.
• DPAccessories Black Wheel Locks Closed End Bulge Acorn Locking Lug Nuts
  • These nuts are extremely strong and durable, have multiple key-to-lock patterns so no two keys can work on the same locks, and boast a sleek, black satin finish.
• Trimax Wheel Chock Lock
  • An excellent choice if you want a solid visible deterrent. 
• COOCHEER Heavy-Duty Car Tire Wheel Lock Anti-Theft Lock
  • Safe for your rims, ultra-secure, and fits just about all tire sizes.
• Wheel Lock Security Tire Clamp – Zone Tech Premium Quality Heavy-Duty Anti-Theft Wheel Lock
  • A basic but reliable clamp that’s lighter and easier to carry around than the others on our list.
• TMS Wheel Lock Clamp Claw
  • An affordable, portable immobilizer that fits wheels from 6 ¾ to 10 ½ inches.
• Goplus Wheel Lock Tire Clamp
  • Not the most convenient option available (assembly required), but a robust and reliable deterrent.
• TOYOTA Genuine Accessories Wheel Lock
  • Designed to fit a wide range of Toyota vehicles and only respond to a single key pattern.

Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices, and customer reviews on Amazon.

Best Wheel Locks – A Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations

To make your choice of picking a top product easier, we’ve rounded up and reviewed some of what we consider the best products on the market below.

Gorilla Automotive 61631 Acorn Gorilla Guard Locks

This well-known and reputable brand provides a variety of different locks to suit your needs. The 61631 Acorn, in particular, features a free-spinning sleeve that protects the external security pattern from being tampered with.

Anyone trying to jam the socket or move any parts using conventional tools will find it impossible to do so. That’s because the sleeve will keep slipping away. The package contains four 60-degree conical seat locks, plus a key that is registered to you (the owner).

They have a narrow groove intended to enhance security. They are made using hardened steel and finished triple chrome for both durability and a polished look.

Features and Specifications

• Thread size: 12mm x 1.5 (Other size threads are also available.)
• Number of locks included: Four plus one key
• Length: 1.50”.
• Seat type: Conical seat.
• Material: Hardened steel and triple chrome plated.
• Standout feature: Narrow grooves.

What We Like

• Tamper-resistance clamshell packaging.
• Comes with a personalized key code.
• Attractive chrome finish.
• Several thread sizes are available.

What We Don’t Like

• Some users complain about poor corrosion resistance.

Check Price at Amazon

Mcgard 24157 Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks

McGard is a heavyweight in the wheel lock industry, and not without good reason. They use restricted steel made especially for their products, which also meet OEM standards.

McGard’s wheel locks are triple-plated with nickel and have an extra layer of microporous chrome. What do you have in the end? A premium product that is durable and can be relied on.

McGard’s use of technology provides unlimited key patterns, which increases complexity and, thus, security. You are assured that the unique key in your possession is the only one that can lock and unlock the nuts.

The locks feature narrow grooves which make it difficult for anyone to tamper with them. Additionally, they have user-friendly collars that guide the key into position making installation or removal quite easy.

Features and Specifications

• Thread size: 12mm x 1.5
• Number of locks included: Four plus one key.
• Length: 1.28”
• Seat type: Cone seat style.
• Material: Steel with triple nickel and chrome finish.
• Standout feature: Special steel and narrow grooves.

What We Like

• Premium quality.
• Unlimited key patterns.
• Tamper-free packaging.
• Corrosion resistant.

What We Don’t Like

• Doesn’t come with a spare key.

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DP accessories Lcb3l2he-Bk04lk5 Black Key Locks

If you’re looking for a solid wheel lock, then this is a great option for you. It is manufactured using cold-forged, heat-treated steel, making it extremely strong and durable.

Most wheel locks are coated in shiny chrome, but this one makes an exception by going for a cathodic black coating. It combines the durability of top-quality chrome and the sleek, sharp properties of satin black paint. You do, however, have the option of choosing a chrome-colored finish.

These closed-end bulge locks are designed with precision-machined threads that ensure they fit perfectly on your wheel studs. They also feature multiple key-to-lock patterns, which means that no two keys can work on the same locks.

You will be happy to know that this set comes with an extra lock that can be used on your spare tire. Plus, it comes with a record card where you can write down your key’s unique code for future reference.

Features and Specifications

• Thread size: 1/2″- 20
• Number of locks in the package: Five plus one key.
• Length: 1.39”.
• Seat type: Conical seat.
• Material: Steel with black satin paint.
• Standout feature: Closed-end.

What We Like

• Sleek black color.
• Option for five locks instead of four.
• Record keeping is made easy.
• Precision threading for the perfect fit.

What We Don’t Like

• Only comes with a single key.

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Trimax Tcl65 Wheel Chock Lock

Worried about leaving your car, trailer, boat, truck, or construction equipment unattended? You just might find your solution in this lock. The Trimax TCL65 is a clamp that also chocks the wheel to prevent trailers from rolling away.

It is made using heavy-gauge, rugged steel that is powder coated to prevent corrosion. The red part of the clamp is coated with rubber to protect your wheel’s finish. The clamp’s colorful finish makes it both a powerful visual and physical deterrent.

Features and Specifications

• Number of included keys: 2.
• Material: Heavy gauge rugged steel finished with powder coating.
• Fits: Trailer wheels from eight to 15 inches.
• Reach: 7.25”
• Standout feature: Built-in chock to prevent rolling away.

What We Like

• 2-in-1 safety product.
• Installation is a breeze.

What We Don’t Like

• Regular lubrication may be required to prevent rusting

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Coocheer Heavy-Duty Car Tire Wheel Lock

Looking for the ideal bodyguard for your vehicle? This heavy-duty wheel lock may be a great option for you. Its bright color will be visible from far away. If that isn’t enough to deter thieves, its forbidding look and heavy-duty construction should be. For added safety, there’s a built-in anti-theft needle.

It is made using heavy-duty steel with a rust-proof coating that increases its durability. The clamp’s arms are wrapped with soft PVC to prevent it scratching or damaging your wheels and rims. Additionally, its powerful grip prevents the tire from being tampered with, turned, or removed.

This lock is ideal for all sorts of vehicles and has been designed to adjust to most tire sizes and rims comfortably. 

Features and Specifications

• Number of included keys: 2.
• Material: Heavy-duty steel with a rust-resistant coating.
• Standout feature: Anti-theft needle.

What We Like

• Enhanced safety features.
• Ideal for extended stays in the parking lot.
• Universal applications.
• Easy to operate.

What We Don’t Like

• It is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to attach and remove.

Check Price at Amazon

Zone Tech Heavy Duty Tire Clamp

This clamp is heavy duty yet light enough for you to carry around. It is made from high-quality ABS, giving it superior strength and durability. It’s also coated with soft rubber to ensure that it does not damage your rims.

How does the clamp work? It wraps securely around the wheel of your vehicle to keep it from being tampered with or towed. It’s a great fit for many vehicles, including motorcycles. You only need to adjust the fit to suit the size of your tire.

This clamp features striking yellow and red colors to deter thieves. It also comes with two keys, so if you lose one key, you’ll have a simple plan B.

Features and Specifications

• Number of keys included: 2.
• Material: ABS.
• Standout feature: Comfort handle

What We Like

• Portable.
• Highly visible.
• Universal applications.

What We Don’t Like

• May be too small for larger trucks.

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Tms Wheel Anti-Theft Lock Clamp

Looking for a great immobilizer that will keep your wheels from turning or rotating? This clamp will do just that. Built using weather-resistant steel, this heavy-duty wheel lock will serve you well for a lifetime.

You can adjust it to fit most vehicles as well as golf carts, lawnmowers, small aircraft, and boat trailers. It features a soft coating that will not leave any scratches on your rims.

Moreover, the handle is anti-slip to give you a firm grip. Its lightweight nature ensures that you will not strain as you carry it around. The vibrant red and yellow colors make it highly visible by day or night. 

Features and Specifications

• Number of keys included: 3.
• Fits: Adjust to fit wheels from 6 ¾ to 10 ½ inches.
• Material: Steel.
• Standout feature: Anti-slip handle.

What We Like

• Consumes less storage space.
• Portable.
• Universal applications.

What We Don’t Like

• Some buyers have complained about the keys breaking.

Check Price at Amazon

Goplus Anti-Theft Security Wheel Lock Tire Clamp

This formidable-looking clamp is enough to deter any thief from coming close to your vehicle. It is made of A3 steel, known for its strength, durability, and ability to withstand extreme weather.

As with other clamps listed here, it’s soft-coated to ensure no damage comes to your wheels or rims.

It is suitable for a number of vehicle types, from cars to trucks, ATVs, RVs, go-karts, and many more. The locking lever features 16 holes that allow you to adjust the clamp to suit your needs.

Features and Specifications

• Number of included keys: 2.
• Material: A3 Steel.
• Fits: Tires from 13-15 inches.
• Standout feature: 16-hole locking lever.

What We Like

• Easy to store
• Portable
• Suitable for different types of vehicles.

What We Don’t Like

• Requires some assembly.

Check Price at Amazon

Toyota Genuine Accessories 00276-00900 Wheel Lock

If you own a Toyota, you will be happy to know that your vehicle manufacturer also makes wheel locks. The best part about these is they’ve been designed to fit a wide range of Toyota models

Known for their strict engineering standards, you can expect these locks will be of good quality as well. They are resistant to conventional lock-removal tools and only respond to a single, unique, computer-generated key pattern.

One of the best things about these locks is they have been precision weight matched against the factory issue nut. This means that you will not have to rebalance your wheels after installation. The they’re made using an alloy with triple nickel chrome that resists corrosion and gives off a polished look.

Features and Specifications

• Thread size: Not specified.
• Number of locks in the package: Four plus one key.
• Length: Not specified
• Seat type: Flat.
• Material: Alloy with triple nickel chrome finish.
• Standout feature: Precision weight matching.

What We Like

• Genuine Toyota parts.
• Weight balanced, no need for rebalancing wheels.
• Easy installation.
• Only one wheel lock needed per wheel.

What We Don’t Like

• Only works for Toyota models.

Check Price at Amazon

What Are Wheel Locks?

Wheel locks are external vehicle accessories designed to keep thieves from stealing the wheels from your car. Simply put, these devices literally lock the entire wheel directly onto the car, to prevent them from being stolen.

Some feature lug bolts or nuts that lock your wheels in place and can only be opened using a specially patterned key. Others clamp down your tire rendering it immobile. In any case, they make it impossible to remove the wheels and tires, and in some cases render the whole car immobile.

Some not only prevent the wheels from being stolen, but the whole vehicle as well. They signal to thieves that your car is not a target. 

The products discussed in this guide are for wheel theft prevention, not for locking the steering wheel. You can check out this guide if you’re interested in the best steering wheel locks.

Why Would You Want Them

You would never leave your car out on the street without locking it, right?  But what about the parts on the outside? Don’t these deserve protection too? 

There are a few distinct advantages to locking your wheels. These include deterrence, theft prevention, and potentially saving both time and money.

Deter Would-Be Thieves

Most car thieves work very fast and can make off with car wheels quickly. They are appealing because they’re usually easy to remove and then sell. The stolen wheels then find their way into dealerships that specialize in used parts, or to online and black markets.

It’s difficult for car owners to prove tires and rims have been stolen and even harder for law enforcement to track them down. This is because they don’t usually come with any form of tracking or identification. Once your wheels have been stolen, you’re unlikely to ever see them again.

Saving Time

If you do have your wheels stolen, you’ll have a few major hassles to deal with. Depending on where your car is parked, you might have to move it to a safe or legal spot. You certainly don’t want the added headache of parking tickets on top of everything else.

Once your car is somewhere safe, your headache still isn’t over. You’ll now have to deal with getting to a dealership or tire shop to replace the stolen parts.

Saving Money

Whether for performance or aesthetic purposes, people spend a ton of money on their tires and accessories. This includes anything from customized alloys to aftermarket wheels. While this increases the value of your car, it also makes it more susceptible to theft.

Now, why would you want to spend all that money only to lose these accessories to thieves? Locks can provide peace of mind by keeping the wheels secure. This way, you will sleep better, and be able to enjoy your ride without worry.

Even if you haven’t purchased specialty tires, the basic ones that come with most vehicles still cost money. Whatever type you have on your car, if they’re stolen you’ll now need to replace them. Whether high-end or entry-level, this is an unnecessary and avoidable expense.

How Many Should You Buy?

In most cases, these locks come in packs of four including a unique key. You replace one lug nut on every wheel with a lock. Some manufacturers provide a set of 20 that allow you to replace all standard lug nuts on all four tires. Either set will provide security for your car.

Most wheels have five lug nuts, and on some smaller cars there may only be four.

A set that includes 20 will cover all of the lug nuts on almost any vehicle. This is a great choice for those who feel particularly protective of their wheels.

It also means that all of your lug nuts will match. This is important if you value the look of your car and want to do more than just protect the components. If you’re thinking about replacing all of your lug nuts with locks, go for the set of 20. This is definitely easier than buying four different sets.

The latter may result in a nightmarish experience if you need to unlock your tires. Four individual sets means four unique keys. You’ll probably have to test all four keys to find the right one. Also, the more keys you have, the higher your risk of misplacing one or more of them.

Types of Wheel Locks

There are a few different types of wheel locks on the market, from small lug nuts to full-wheel-style clamps.

Which you should buy depends on a few factors such as your particular wheels and tires, how much of a deterrent you want, ease and speed of use, and how much you care about overall aesthetics.

• Spline Drive: These feature a closed-end design that provides greater clamping force and allow for longer bolt lengths. They are suitable for the small-diameter lug holes usually found on aftermarket products. These locks provide greater security and come in a range of colors that may improve your vehicle’s appeal.
• Alloy Locks: These are made from solid alloy and will normally come with the car from the manufacturer. They have a specialty socket to remove the locks. You can obtain this socket directly from the manufacturer, or the dealership.
• Clamp Lock: Rather than have nuts and keys, this safety kit is wrapped around the tire and locks it in place. The bright yellow and red color makes it highly visible and deters thieves. And with the clamp on, it is virtually impossible to move the car. The flip side is you’ll need to get on your knees whenever you want to fit, unlock, or remove the clamp.
• Locking Lug Nut: These are fastened on the wheel surface and feature unique ridges that make them hard to open. They can only be opened using a unique wheel lock key. These can replace one or all the lugs on the wheel depending on your preference. Unlike clamp locks, they do not need to be removed every time you drive.

Some Useful Terms

Before we get into our detailed buyer’s guide, here are some common terms you’ll come across and need to know. 

• Wheel Studs: These refer to the threaded wheel bolts you see protruding through the holes on the wheels. The lug nuts are normally threaded into them. The majority of the vehicles have four or five studs per wheel. Some SUVs, trucks, or vans are an exception to this and can have up to eight studs.
• Thread Size: This refers to the measurement of the outside diameter of a wheel stud. Some of the common thread sizes include 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, and 7/16”, 1/2”, 9/16”, and 5/8”. You can usually find your thread size in the owner’s manual for your car. If not, you can find a thread pitch gauge at your local hardware store.
• Thread Pitch: This refers to the distance between threads. Like thread size, it is expressed in either inches or millimeters. With a lug nut whose thread pitch is 10mm x 1.5mm, the stud diameter is 10mm while the distance from one thread to another is 1.5mm.
• Seat Type: This refers to the area where the lug nut makes contact with the surface of the wheel. Some of the popular styles include acorn/tapered seat, flat seat, mag seat, and extended thread.

What to Look for When Buying

It’s time to look at some of the things you should keep in mind when shopping for locks.

Type

Do you want a tire clamp or would rather go for a lug nut lock for every tire? Perhaps you would rather replace all lug nuts with locks. If convenience is your top priority, lug nuts or locking lug nuts are the way to go. If security is more important, clamps might be a better option. 

Durable Materials

Thieves carry all sorts of tools, from wrenches to hammers and chisels. Go for high-quality wheel locks made from solid metals like steel and titanium alloys since these can withstand abuse from thieves.

Additionally, good quality metals are rust and corrosion resistant. Since tires come into contact with chemicals and spills on roads and are subject to all lousy weather conditions, the wrong material locks will be vulnerable.

Right Thread Size

We’ve explained what thread sizes are in the previous section. Ensure that the thread size on the lock that you intend to purchase is compatible with your car’s size.

If it’s too big then it will be loose, and won’t do the job it is intended to do. If it’s too small it obviously won’t be able to grip the stud.

Universal Fit or Specific Fit Keys

The only good reason for purchasing locks with universal keys is convenience. You can easily replace them if they get lost. But this comes with a high risk. Generic keys are easily available and unlock many models. If a thief has a universal key, your wheels might be gone in no time.

Lock complexity is the difference between security and vulnerability. The more complex the pattern, the harder it will be to steal, and the safer your wheels will be.

Visibility

If you’re in an area that experiences a lot of car-related crime, having a wheel clamp may be a good option. The bright colors make it highly visible and will likely deter thieves. 

Locking wheel nuts, on the other hand, offer invisible protection and don’t interfere with the aesthetic appeal of your car.

Conclusion

The role played by wheel locks in security can’t be underestimated. Rather than leave your wheels’ and rims’ security to chance, invest in the best wheel locks you can find. We have shared some of the top models available and so now the ball is in your court.

So, what will it be? Less than 100 bucks for aftermarket locks, or possibly hundreds of dollars and headaches due to theft? 

Do you have any questions or comments? Leave them in the comment section below, we will answer every one.