Steering Lock Buyer’s Guide
Steering wheel locks (also called steering wheel immobilisers) are an essential piece of equipment for anyone looking to enhance the security of their vehicle. These locks immobilise the steering wheel, making it difficult for potential thieves to drive away with your car.
This guide will help you understand the different types of steering wheel locks available, key features to look for, and tips to help pick the right lock for your vehicle.
How does a steering lock work?
A steering lock prevents your steering wheel from being turned by locking it in place and can only be removed by using a key. Different steering locks provide various levels of security but all act as a visual deterrent for thieves and can prevent your vehicle from being targeted.
Different types of steering locks
When researching steering locks, you’ll find that there are various types available. Here are some of the most popular steering wheel locks:
T-Bar
A T-Bar steering lock gets its name from it’s ‘T shaped’ design. It locks onto a section of the wheel and extends onto the dashboard, making it impossible to turn the wheel.
The Halfords T-Bar Steering Lock is also bright yellow, making it a clear visual deterrent for potential thieves.
Shop Halfords T-Bar Steering Lock
Double Bar
A double bar steering lock features two hooks which clamp onto the wheel. The hooks can be adjusted to fit onto most steering wheels.
The Halfords Double Bar Steering Wheel features a striking red design to ward off potential thieves and is quick and easy to fit.
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Single Bar
A single bar steering lock features one hook which clamps to the wheel. These are entry level security products, designed to act as a visual deterrent.
The Halfords Single Bar Steering Lock also features the bold red design to help discourage your vehicle from being targeted.
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Full Cover
Some steering locks cover the full wheel, making them extremely difficult to remove. They provide high levels of security and offer greater protection.
Dislok are one of the UK’s most trusted security brands and provide a range of full cover steering locks.
Shop Dislok steering locksSold Secure Rating
When looking for the right steering lock, you’ll notice that some feature a Sold Secure rating. Sold Secure is an independent security product certification agency that tests the performance of security products against rigorous attacks.
Sold Secure ratings go from Bronze to Diamond, with Bronze offering a good level of security and Diamond providing the highest level of security.
It’s important to think about the level of security you require when choosing your steering lock and taking the Sold Secure rating into consideration.
The best steering locks
At Halfords, we stock a range of steering locks from renowned security brands. Some of the best steering locks are as follows:
Dislok
As mentioned previously, Dislok are a reputable security brand that offer high protection against vehicle theft.
Dislok Gold Edition Steering Lock
The Dislok Gold Edition Steering Lock features a Silver Sold Secure rating, so you can be assured that it offers substantial protection. It also comes in small, medium, and large, covering all types of vehicles from standard cars, to 4x4s to vans and motorhomes.
Shop Dislok Gold Edition Steering Lock
Milenco
Milenco is a reputable brand, offering high security steering locks, providing peace of mind that your car is in safe hands.
Milenco High Security Steering Wheel Lock
The Milenco High Security Steering Wheel Lock is designed to exceed the Sold Secure Gold rating with its high security keys, innovative design, and versatility to fit most steering wheels. Made from hardened steel and featuring a pick-proof design, this option is a strong thief deterrent.
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Armaplate
Armaplate Resolute Gold
The Armaplate Resolute Gold features a Gold Sold Secure rating and is unique in that it disables both the steering wheel and brake pedal, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe hands.
Shop Armaplate Resolute GoldHalfords
At Halfords we stock a range of own brand steering locks that provide great value for those looking for entry level security products that act as a visual deterrent. As mentioned above, you can choose from our T-Bar, Double Bar or Single Bar steering lock to add an additional layer of security to your vehicle.
Shop Halfords Steering LocksTips for using steering locks
Here are a few things to remember when using steering locks:
Look after your keys
For security purposes, most steering locks will come with one set of keys. If you lose your keys, no spares will be available, so make sure you always keep your keys safe!
Follow installation instructions
While most steering locks are quick and easy to fit, make sure you follow the instructions closely to ensure the lock has been fitted correctly.
Consider pairing with additional security options
Steering locks are a great way of deterring thieves but having an additional layer of protection will provide even greater peace of mind. Consider adding window etching to your vehicle which consists of visibly etching all car windows with the logo of the International Security Register (the ISR) and a code unique to the vehicle. The unique code is linked to a fully certified and secure database used by all Police Forces in the UK.
Find out more about window etchingAll in all, steering locks are a valuable investment for enhancing your car's security. By understanding the different types available and key features to look for, you can choose the right steering lock to fit your needs and ensure your vehicle is protected against theft. Always opt for quality, ease of use, and high visibility to maximise the effectiveness of your steering lock.
Shop our full range of steering locks and car security essentials online now.
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