Using the best trailer hitch lock makes it significantly more difficult for someone to unhook and drive away with your trailer. This way you can leave your trailer unattended for an extended period of time without worrying someone will drive away with it.
In most places, this generally isn’t a problem. However, if you’re renting a trailer or you’re towing some valuable gear like a dirt bike, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
In this post, we put together a list of some of the top-rated trailer hitch locks for you to take a look at. Don’t forget to scroll past our recommendations for an in-depth buying guide and FAQ section.
Otherwise, let’s jump right into it!
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Best Trailer Hitch Locks
Each of these locks offers excellent security features to ensure the safety of your trailer while it’s hitched.
Reese Towpower
The Reese Towpower 7088300 Heavy Duty Coupler Lock is praised for its effectiveness in deterring potential theft and its ease of installation and use.
This lock is designed to keep your trailer secure and prevent any unauthorized access.
With its versatile ratchet design and six locking positions, it offers flexibility and ensures a tight fit on different coupler sizes, including 1-7/8-inch, 2-inch, and 2-5/16-inch.
The bright silver color not only enhances visibility but also serves as a deterrent to potential thieves.
Users have reported that the lock is easy to install and use, making it a convenient option for trailer owners. However, some users have had difficulties obtaining replacement keys.
Overall, the Reese Towpower 7088300 Heavy Duty Coupler Lock provides effective theft deterrence and adds an extra layer of security to your trailer.
Trimax UMAX100
You’ll appreciate the versatility and robust construction of the Trimax UMAX100 coupler lock.
This lock offers 360 degrees of hardened steel protection for unattended trailers, providing instant security for campers, boats, or trailers when not hooked up to a vehicle.
With its 6-tooth, 3/8′ dual ratchet locking system and hardened 5/8′ 16mm steel shackle, it ensures enhanced security.
The 1/2-turn technology prevents false locking, and it can be used with a Trimax chain or cable for additional security.
Installation is easy, and it fits various coupler types including 1-7/8′, 2′, and 2-5/16′.
The Trimax UMAX100 is praised for its strong and durable construction, versatile fit, and 360-degree protection. However, some users have reported issues with the lock’s fit on certain couplers, freezing of the locking mechanism over time, and difficulties with the key mechanism.
Master Lock Universal Size
Master Lock’s universal size coupler lock is a versatile solution for securing trailers. It fits 1-7/8′, 2′, and 2-5/16′ couplers, providing compatibility with various trailer couplers.
The lock’s durable chrome exterior finish helps prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting use. Its red color also adds visibility as a deterrent, offering an extra layer of security.
The lock’s easy-to-use locking mechanism allows for quick and hassle-free installation.
While some users might prefer more advanced security features, the Master Lock universal size coupler lock still provides a sense of security against potential theft.
AMPLOCK U-BRP2516
If you’re looking for a highly secure and well-made coupler lock, AMPLOCK U-BRP2516 is a reliable option to consider. This lock is designed specifically for 2 5/16 inches couplers with a straight lip, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum security.
Made from stainless steel and ducted cast iron, it offers strong resistance against various attacks. The patented push and lock system makes installation quick and hassle-free. The lock’s swivel design and rotative face provide additional security by preventing drilling.
With an E-coat and electrostatic paint, it is also resistant to rust. Weighing 12 pounds, this lock is heavy-duty and built to last. It comes with 2 keys and a unique security code, offering millions of key combinations for added protection.
Proven Industries Trailer Lock
The Proven Industries Model 2516 Trailer Lock is a highly durable and secure option for trailer owners. With its heavy-duty steel construction and unique locking mechanism, this lock provides peace of mind and prevents theft of trailers and valuable cargo.
Made in the USA, it boasts a high-quality key lock and is designed to fit 2 5/16-inch trailer couplers. The lock’s universal key system adds convenience, allowing you to use the same key for all locks from the brand.
However, it is important to note that this lock does come with a relatively higher price point compared to standard locks and is also heavier and bulkier.
Trailer Hitch Lock Buying Guide
For our recommendations above, you’re looking at some of the best options currently available. We took a look at the wide range of different trailer hitches and put together a list with some great choices that you can count on.
However, with so many different options to choose from, it can still be tricky to find the right lock for your hitch and setup. To make it easier for you, we put together this helpful buying guide.
This section should cover any questions or concerns you have if you’re looking for one of these locking mechanisms. Otherwise, feel free to leave a comment down below and we’ll be able to help you out.
Features to Look For
Here are some of the different features to keep an eye out for when you’re shopping for a trailer hitch lock. Don’t forget that every vehicle and trailer is designed differently so there are a number of things for you to consider.
The Hitch Receiver in Your Vehicle
One of the most important considerations is whether or not the hitch lock will properly fit on your vehicle. Thankfully, there are a number of different sizes available to choose from so it’s pretty easy to find one that fits.
While there are universal trailer hitch locks, always double check the manufacturer’s description. This is where you will find information on the sizing and whether you need to go with a quarter inch, 2-inch trailer hitch lock, or something different.
Those of you using a drop hitch will also want to double-check with compatibility. Even some of the universal locks aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Materials
Another important thing to consider are the materials that the best hitch lock you’re looking at is made of. One of the best options is steel, as it’s strong and the most durable compared to other materials.
Steel trailer hitch locks are also relatively inexpensive so they can be found for a great price. However, keep in mind that steel is heavy and it can start to develop rust if it’s not properly cared for or treated.
There’s also aluminum hitch locks, which are durable and strong as well. The lightweight design of these makes them easy to handle and they’re also rust proof by nature. For heavy duty hitches we’d recommend a steel lock and for everything else aluminum would be just fine.
It’s also worth mentioning that some locks come with a rubber coating or cap that protects the locking mechanism. This helps to keep dirt, moisture, and debris from getting into the device and causing it to deteriorate. Keep an eye out for rubber as it can definitely help to extend the life span of the hitch lock you’re using.
Budget
Like with anything we’re buying, there’s probably a budget that you have in mind. It’s a good idea to look at the different options that fall within your price range.
Thankfully, most trailer locks are relatively affordable. Don’t forget to double-check the reviews, especially if you’re looking at a cheap trailer hitch lock.
Style
Surprisingly, these locks come in a variety of different types and styles. It’s possible to choose trailer coupler locks and locking hitch pins.
Both of these perform the same function and it ultimately boils down to preference for which one you choose. Further on in this post we take a look at the differences between these two types.
Easy to Use
Those of you that are Towing regularly will want a lock that’s easy to use. It’s always a good idea to look at the instructions or even pull up a YouTube video if you’re having trouble.
Some of the better quality options come with a quick release design that makes it easier to use. Although these are more expensive, they’re definitely a better option if you’re doing a lot of towing.
Why You Should Use a Trailer Hitch Lock
At the bare minimum, hitch locks are designed to be used as an anti-theft device. However, there are a number of other benefits to using these locks that you might not be aware of.
Along with preventing potential thieves from stealing the trailer, using a lock is also an efficient theft deterrent. They prevent the trailer from getting stolen when it’s your site for an extended period of time.
They’re also easy to use and portable so there’s no excuse not to travel with it. It’s also worth mentioning that they can protect your trailer if it happens to get decoupled from the vehicle.
As for theft prevention, there are some other devices and strategies you should consider. It might be a good idea to use a wheel lock or even leaving the trailer empty when it’s unattended.
Don’t forget to consider using insurance to protect the trailer and everything inside. Careful parking and installing a GPS tracker on the trailer and also help counter the effects of any thieves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Trailer Coupler Lock?
Trailer coupler locks, sometimes referred to as tongue locks, are U-shaped locks that art designs to be placed over the coupler that you’ll find on the trailer tongue. This is a lock that’s meant to attach to the trailer when it’s not coupled to your towing vehicle.
The point of this lock is to prevent potential thieves from hooking up to the trailer on their own and driving away, especially if it’s something like a motorcycle trailer. It’s a good idea to use one of these if you are leaving a trailer unattended for any extended period of time.
What is a Locking Hitch Pin?
These are simple pins that are designed to slide crosswise through the receiver hole. It connects to whatever you’re coupled with.
This type of lock is easy to use, small, and portable. They’re a good option if you’re looking for a basic level of security for your trailer.
How Do You Find the Right Size Trailer Hitch Lock?
It’s important to find the correct size of lock that’s designed to fit on your trailer hitch. Most of the products will have a sizing chart in the product description or manufacturer specification section.
Otherwise, you can use a tape measure to measure the width or height of the opening on the hitch receiver. This is the area that forms a generally perfect square that you hook up the trailer to.
The most common sizes include 1-¼ inch and 2-inch, which is what most people have for their trailers. Some vehicles have larger receivers, although for the most part they will fall in the previously mentioned range.
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