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You’re baiting a thief if you leave an unlocked trailer unattended. It doesn’t take much effort for a person to hook the trailer up to his vehicle and drive off with your equipment. Fortunately, a trailer hitch lock does a great job of preventing this from occurring. These devices make it much more challenging for a thief to steal your stuff. Many hitch locks are designed in bright colors that are visual deterrents and essentially a red flag to anyone who comes across your trailer with the intention of taking it. Instead of worrying about someone driving away with your trailer and its contents, get some peace of mind by using one of the following trailer hitch locks.
Summary List
Best Overall: Master Lock Universal Size Trailer Locks
Best Value: Cocoweb Chrome C-Lock Heavy Duty Locking Hitch Pin
Best Heavy Duty: Reese Towpower Universal Coupler Lock
Best Universal Fit: Trimax UMAX100 Premium Universal ‘Solid Hardened Steel’ Trailer Lock
Most User Friendly: Master Lock 1/2 in. and 5/8 in. Swivel Head Receiver Lock
Honorable Mention: Best American Made: Proven Industries Model 2516 Trailer Lock
Also Consider: CURT Black Trailer Hitch Lock
Our Methodology
We took several factors into consideration when compiling our list of the best trailer hitch locks. First, we made sure to include products from reputable companies known for producing high-quality products. This includes manufacturers such as Master Lock, which has been making padlocks and security products for over a century. We also included different types of hitch locks, so there are different options to suit different needs. Our list includes products in a range of prices to fit a range of budgets. We also spent a good amount of time consulting user feedback to see how these devices perform in real-world conditions so we could determine which ones performed the best in all types of weather and conditions. More information about our methodology can be found on The Drive’s Gear About page.
Best Trailer Hitch Lock Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Master Lock Universal Size Trailer Locks
Best Value
Cocoweb Chrome C-Lock Heavy Duty Locking Hitch Pin
Best Heavy Duty
Reese Towpower Universal Coupler Lock
Best Universal Fit
Trimax UMAX100 Premium Universal 'Solid Hardened Steel' Trailer Lock
Most User Friendly
Master Lock 1/2 in. and 5/8 in. Swivel Head Receiver Lock
Honorable Mention
Proven Industries Model 2516 Trailer Lock
Most Protective
CURT Black Trailer Hitch Lock
Our Verdict
Our pick for the best overall trailer hitch lock is the Master Lock Universal Size Trailer Lock because it’s designed to fit most types of hitch couplers, and its red color makes it stand out to deter thieves. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Cocoweb Chrome C-Lock Heavy Duty Locking Hitch Pin.
Consider Secondhand
When we start shopping for tools and products, we never overlook the secondhand market. In fact, it’s usually the first place I look. Whether you’re scrolling through Amazon’s Renewed section, eBay for car parts or tools, or flipping through the pages of Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, you have hundreds of thousands of used tools, parts, and gear ready to be shipped to your doorstep. Refurbished to like-new status, they’ll be willing to give you many more years of faithful service all while saving you money.
If those options don’t have what you need, your local salvage yard is great for car parts, while swap meets are a great resource you should tap. Just Google either and head on down.
Secondhand Tips
To make your secondhand search easier, here are two tips for finding the best deals and making sure your new-to-you stuff wasn’t destroyed by the previous owner.
- If possible, inspect the lock to make sure it’s in good working condition and that the elements lock and unlock smoothly.
- Avoid trailer hitch locks that are rusted because they may not work properly.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Trailer Hitch Lock
Key Features
Materials
Check out the type of material used on the lock. The majority are developed with a strong metal while others are reinforced with a tough steel construction. Either will ensure anyone looking to steal your trailer has a much more difficult time doing so. A strongly built lock will resist being broken.
Fit
While not all hitches are the same size, the best trailer hitch lock should be able to fit the majority of modern hitches. To make sure a lock will fit your specific hitch, double check with the manufacturer’s guide to see the exact specifications of the hitch.
Visibility
One of the best ways to help prevent the theft of your trailer, boat, or RV is to make sure you have a visible lock on the hitch. A good way to deter thieves is to get a bright color lock or a large one that is easily spotted from a distance; colors such as red or yellow are the most common.
Types
Coupler Lock
A coupler lock is the most common of all trailer locks. It fits over the couple on the trailer’s tongue. This prevents anyone from hooking up a vehicle and driving off with your trailer.
Pin Lock
This type of lock works by sliding into the fastener hole where the hitch meets the frame of your vehicle. Some are bent at the end to add an extra layer of security for anyone trying to force it out of the hitch.
Trailer Hitch Lock Pricing
A good variety of trailer hitch locks are affordable and cost less than $30. They can be anything from pin locks to coupler locks and are typically made of durable metal materials. More expensive hitch locks tend to be more rugged and longer-lasting. Some include additional locking mechanisms for added security.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
A: They are a visual deterrent to thieves and, while they’re not 100 percent foolproof, they can be challenging to remove without a key. They also provide peace of mind when you leave your trailer unattended, so you can lessen your anxiety.
A: That depends on the type of lock you use. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You must disconnect your trailer from the tow vehicle and lower its front wheel or post. Then you must place the lock in the space where you would install the ball of your vehicle’s hitch. Once you make sure everything is aligned, lock it in place.
A: Since it can take a bit of time to lock and unlock a trailer, consider the circumstances. A hitch pin is appropriate if you don’t need extra security. A right-angle lock is helpful if you regularly lock your trailer because it’s simple to access. If your trailer will be unattended for an extended period of time, a higher security lock is a better bet.