There are a lot of cases where mobile trailers have disappeared without a trace. If you want to avoid that, you need to secure your trailer with a decent trailer lock or hitch lock. These locks will prevent unauthorized access to the trailer hitch, thus preventing it to be towed. Here’s what you need to know about a trailer lock before buying one.
Material: If there is one factor that can determine the protection level provided by any type of lock, it is its material and overall build quality. If you want the best protection, you should go with a trailer lock made up of a premium material that cannot be broken easily. For that, we have included only those options that are made up of strong metals such as reinforced steel so that you can get the best protection.
Size and Fit: There are a lot of different types of hitch designs and sizes available on the market. As a result, the compatible locks are also different based on the coupler dimensions. You will find compatible coupler sizes with all of our picks that will surely make your job easier.
Locking Mechanism: If your lock can be easily bypassed using a different type of key or some other instrument, there is no point in using the lock and you might as well keep the trailer parked overnight without a lock. For best protection, you also need to take a look at the locking mechanism of the unit and see if it is a foolproof option or not.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that the market is flooded with various types of locks when it comes to trailer locks or hitch locks. Therefore, finding the best option from all these choices can get difficult. While the factors mentioned above will help you find the right product, you will still have to browse through hundreds of options. If you don’t want the trouble of doing that, you should take a look at our picks for the best trailer locks and find a suitable option right here. We also have a “Buying Guide” to help you pick out the right option under your budget.
Best Trailer Lock List
Best Trailer Lock Reviews
1. CURT Trailer Lock
When it comes to buying accessories regarding safety and security of your property, you should always trust options from brands that tens of thousands of users are choosing. CURT is one such brand for trailer locks and many other essential trailer accessories. CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock is the 1st option that we have for you today, and it is the most popular one compared to all other trailer locks on the market. This lock is designed for ⅝ inch trailer couplings and is quite a smaller option compared to others. Therefore, it is very easy to install and use on a daily basis. You can use the CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock for most 2 inch receivers without any issues. Opening and locking the CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock is also quite fast as the keys that come with the lock work on a ¼-turn lock system. And with the 2.85 inches pin length, it is completely unbreakable from outside. Still, the overall dimensions of the CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock are about 8.87 x 1.87 x 1.25 Inches, making it almost invisible from outside. Best Features
Suitable for ⅝ inch coupling size Measures about 8.87 x 1.87 x 1.25 Inches in size 85 inches pin length Operated on a ¼-turn lock system
Pros
Most popular choice on this list Easy to and quick to operate Preferred choice of thousands of buyers
Cons
Not the best option for long distance trips
2. Master Trailer Lock
Compatibility is usually a determining factor for a trailer lock and a lot of good options don’t offer universal compatibility. However, the following option from Master Lock is definitely an exception and works out the best in every case. In 2nd place, we are putting the Master Lock 389DAT on our list. This lock is one of the many locks designed by the brand and fits almost all coupler sizes such as 1-⅞ Inches, 2 Inches, and 2-5/16 Inches. It is also a relatively smaller option as it measures about 6.5 x 4 x 7.5 Inches in size and has a smaller locking system. However, the bright red color of the lock is quite apparent to an outsider and indicates that the trailer is out of reach. The outer coating of the Master Lock 389DAT offers a decent protection against rust or other environmental problems. As for the installation and ease of use, the Master Lock 389DAT is very easy to install and suitable for regular usage. Best Features
Suitable for 1-⅞ Inches, 2 Inches, and 2-5/16 Inches coupling size Measures about 6.5 x 4 x 7.5 Inches in size Advanced locking mechanism Decent weather protection
Pros
One of the popular trailer locks from this list Smaller option compared to others Universally compatible with most trailer lock couplings
Cons
Not as reliable as a few other choices
3. Reese Trailer Lock
Reese is also one of the options that is the first choice of thousands of buyers since this brand makes a variety of trailer hitches, towing accessories, and other heavy-duty equipment. It also has a similarly heavy-duty trailer lock which is worth checking out. In 3rd place, we have the Reese Towpower 7014700 lock kit. This can be the right choice for you if your trailer hitch has a ⅝ Inches or ½ Inch coupler. Apart from locking the trailer down in a place, this lock kit can also be used for secured towing of your trailer by keeping it firmly attached to your vehicle. Apart from the coupler lock, the package also contains a brass coupler lock for locking the coupler. The 2 bent pin receivers included in the packages allow you to use the lock kit with both ⅝ and ½ inch receivers. The kit itself measures about 6 x 3.7 x 6 Inches in size. So, it is quite easy to install the lock and use it regularly. You can also get multiple locks from Reese that can be accessed by the same key for a small additional fee. Best Features
Suitable for ⅝ Inches, and ½ Inch coupling size Measures about 6 x 3.7 x 6 Inches in size Designed for locking as well as secured towing Comes with a swiveling clip
Pros
Very easy to install and remove Compatible with multiple receiver sizes Comparatively smaller option
Cons
Metal quality could have been better
4. CZC AUTO Trailer Lock
If you already store your trailer inside a safe parking lot or a garage, you probably need a basic and affordable lock just to keep it in its place. For that, we have just the right option from CZC AUTO. If you are looking for the cheapest option that you can buy for a reliable trailer lock, look no further. The CZC AUTO Trailer Hitch Coupler is the perfect option for you. The CZC AUTO Trailer Hitch Coupler is the most affordable option that we have today and works perfectly for basic applications. It uses a locking pin mechanism and is compatible with ¼ Inch and ¾ Inch coupling sizes. And as for the lock itself, it measures about 2.76 x 2.4 x 0.94 Inches, making it easy to keep with you in your pocket. Even though it is the cheapest option on our list, it still features high-strength steel construction that makes it safe from all forms of external damage. You will also notice electrophoretic paint on the surface of the CZC AUTO Trailer Hitch Coupler to keep it safe from rust and corrosion. CZC AUTO is also offering a 30-day money-back guarantee on the lock and a year of warranty if you face any problem with the lock. Best Features
Suitable for ¼ Inch, ¾ Inch coupling size Measures about 2.76 x 2.4 x 0.94 Inches in size Made up of high-strength steel Coated with black electrophoretic paint
Pros
Backed by a year of warranty Small and compact unit which can be carried in a pocket Most affordable option on this list
Cons
Locking and unlocking takes a lot of time
5. Proven Trailer Lock
If you usually travel around at long distances and find yourself parking your trailer at unknown locations, you should not compromise on the safety and security of your trailer lock. And for that, you should trust the locking mechanism and design of the Proven Industries locks. The Proven Industries is also a well-known brand in the trailer and wheel lock industry. And, the Proven Industries 2516 Trailer Lock is one of the most popular choices that they offer among many other choices for a trailer lock. This lock is designed to suit 2-5/16 inches couplers without any problem. The internal locking parts of the Proven Industries 2516 Trailer Lock are made up of hardened steel. So, the strength and reliability of the lock is not to be questioned. With that being, you should also note that the installation and locking procedure of the Proven Industries 2516 Trailer Lock is a bit difficult and takes some time to get used to. But, it is a fair trade considering you get unbeatable protection with this lock. The special key design of the Proven Industries 2516 Trailer Lock also makes it impossible to pick the lock. The Proven Industries 2516 Trailer Lock works on an exclusive locking mechanism designed for S-hook style safety chains. Best Features
Suitable for 2-5/16 Inch coupling size Measures about 8.1 x 7.8 x 7.5 Inches in size Unique key design Patented locking mechanism
Pros
Most secured option for locking a trailer Heavy-duty option that offers the best protection Strong outer shield
Cons
Very expensive choice compared to other options
6. Funmit Trailer Lock
COming back to budget options that are suitable for regular use, we have the Funmit Trailer Lock that can be perfect for regular use. Funmit also designs many other essential accessories like filters, dryers, and their accessories The Funmit Universal Coupler Ball Lock is also a budget option from our list and is suitable for a wide range of trailer couplers as it is compatible with 1-⅞ Inches, 2 Inches, and 2-5/16 Inches coupling sizes. You can also adjust the ratchet into 11 different locking positions to get the perfect fit according to your needs. As for the material quality, the Funmit Universal Coupler Ball Lock is made up of heavy-duty A36 steel and aluminum. Thus, the Funmit Universal Coupler Ball Lock easily passes the QC product standard and is certified for the same. The U-shape design of the lock also makes it almost impossible to pry open the lock with brute force. Funmit is also offering a 90-day return period for the lock if you find the product defective or incompatible with your trailer. Best Features
Suitable for 1-⅞ Inches, 2 Inches, and 2-5/16 Inches coupling size Measures about 6.38 x 5.79 x 3.31 Inches in size Comes with a 90-day warranty period Easy to install and remove
Pros
Made up of A36 steel and aluminum Certified by QC product standard Can be adjusted into 11 locking position
Cons
Warranty period is very short
7. RETRUE Trailer Lock
RETRUE is also offering a small and easy-to-use trailer lock that can be perfect for a budget option. RETRUE is a brand that only focuses on trailer locks and its accessories, making top-quality products. The RETRUE Ball Hitch Trailer Lock is also a pretty good option from our picks if you are looking for a budget option. Just like our last pick, the RETRUE Ball Hitch Trailer Lock is also an adjustable option made up of heavy-duty steel. As for compatibility, this lock goes well with 1-⅞ Inches, 2 Inches, 2-5/16 Inches coupling sizes. The high-strength steel construction of the RETRUE Ball Hitch Trailer Lock makes it nearly impossible to cut or shear from outside. RETRUE Ball Hitch Trailer Lock also features modified U-bolt insert hole position to further increase the safety standards. There is a watertight dust cap on the RETRUE Ball Hitch Trailer Lock that prevents water from entering the internal area of the lock. Best Features
Suitable for 1-⅞ Inches, 2 Inches, 2-5/16 Inches coupling size Measures about 5.71 x 5.51 x 2.95 Inches in size Widely compatible with a lot of receiver sizes Modified U-bolt and insert hole position
Pros
Great option for a budget trailer lock Easy to lock and unlock Simple design and quicker access
Cons
Not as safe as a few other choices
8. Cartman Trailer Lock
In the end, we are putting yet another highly secure trailer lock made by Cartman. Cartman is one of the few brands on the market that deals with essential vehicle accessories and tools kits including safety accessories like a trailer lock. Our last pick for this list of the best trailer locks is the Cartman Heavy Duty Trailer Lock. Though this option may appear kind of more expensive than other picks, you will be getting 2 units in the package, reducing the effective price of each lock. This is basically a wheel clamp which is somewhat different from what we have seen so far. Although, it can still be used for the same purpose. The Cartman Heavy Duty Trailer Lock is also made up of high-strength steel plate to increase its reliability. There are 9 adjustment options provided on the Cartman Heavy Duty Trailer Lock so that it can be used for multiple applications. Thus, this lock is compatible with 7 to 11 inches wide wheels. The lock cylinder of the Cartman Heavy Duty Trailer Lock is made up of pure copper which makes it a much stronger unit than other similar options on the market. It also has a waterproof coating to prevent weather damage. Best Features
Suitable for 7 Inches to 11 Inches wheel size Measures about 17.91 x 10.35 x 6.54 Inches in size Comes with a waterproof coating Adjustable with 9 keyholes
Pros
Compatible with a lot of options Great choice if you don’t find a compatible trailer lock Pure copper lock cylinders
Cons
It is not exactly a trailer lock like rest of the choices
Buying Guide For The Best Trailer Lock
FInding the best trailer lock is important if you want to keep your trailer safe and secure on a long trip. And for that, you need to carefully check which lock you are buying and what it offers in terms of features and specifications such as build quality, locking mechanism, weather protection, etc. On this list, you will find the best options available out there for a trailer lock that are carefully picked based on these factors. But to find the one option that checks out all of the boxes in your case, you should take a look at our buying guide for the best trailer lock before making a choice. In this guide, we will discuss some important characteristics of a trailer lock and help you find out the best option based on your needs. We can assure you that you can find the perfect trailer lock under your budget once you take a glance at this buying guide.
1. Construction and Build Quality
The material used for the lock determines the overall build quality and reliability of the application. If the lock is made up of cheaper and low-quality material to maintain lower production costs, it won’t offer guaranteed protection against theft since it can be easily broken with a single pry tool, thus leaving your trailer unprotected for the time being. Therefore, you should always consider buying a premium quality trailer lock since the lock is basically protecting the trailer which is much more expensive and could not be replaced easily. As for the build quality, you should always prefer options made up of strong metals such as stainless steel. And if you are looking for a budget option, you can go with a zinc option too since it is also quite a reliable choice.
2. Weather Protection
The trailer locks also go through a lot of wear and tear throughout the year. And on top of that, there are weather issues since the locks will be applied for weeks at a time, under strong sunlight, devastating winters, or even heavy rainfall. Therefore, these locks should have appropriate weather resistance ratings so that they won’t lose quality and durability over time. Low-quality trailer locks do not offer adequate anti-rust capabilities. And once they come in contact with water or even the normal amount of moisture in the air, they start to rust. Slowly, the rust layer increases and weakens the surface of the lock, making it much easier to break. So, it is important to choose an option that can stay strong and avoid problems like rust or corrosion for a long time. A decent trailer lock with guaranteed weather protection is definitely a worthy purchase.
3. Ease of Use
Another factor that makes a lot of sense is the ease of usage. If your trailer lock is a hassle to install and use every time you wish to lock the trailer, it won’t be an ideal choice, especially if you are going to have to use the lock every other week or so. Therefore, it is always worth checking out the direction of usage before you purchase the lock. This will give you an idea about how the lock is supposed to be used and you can get an idea about its ease of usage. While you are at it, make sure you also check the fit and compatibility of the unit. It can be very difficult to use the lock properly if it is not supposed to be compatible with the coupler size of your trailer. Another faulty way to check the ease of use offered by the lock is by referring to the reviews left by existing customers. Here, you will find impartial feedback for the unit that will surely help you decide if the lock is the right one for you or not.
4. Locking Mechanism
Lastly, we will recommend you check the locking mechanism since it also affects the security level offered by the lock. Most of the time, the lock itself is highly durable and can sustain lots of external damage. But due to flaws in the locking mechanism, it can be easily bypassed and grants access to unauthorized users, allowing them to tow your trailer. The market is currently flooded with such locks that offer a subpar locking mechanism design and you need to stay away from such options if you want the best protection for your trailer. But, you can easily avoid that by checking the design of the lock and checking its locking mechanism. Your best bet would be to choose the one that has durable ball bearings and other locking parts. Such locks cannot be easily pried and a supposed thief will give up long before they can come close to breaking such locks.
Conclusion
We hope that you have managed to pinpoint the best trailer lock to guarantee the safety and protection of your trailer after going through our list of the best options here. As have briefly explained all of our picks in detail, you can easily find out the perfect option that suits your needs the best and offers you an adequate level of security suitable for your trailer. You can also take a look at our buying guide for the best trailer locks as we have some more information there that can prove helpful to you while you are making a choice. In the end, we will leave you with some handpicked recommendations from this list so that you can quickly get a trailer lock right away.
If you already have a safe place to park your trailer and need a basic lock to keep it in its place, we will suggest going with a basic option such as the CZC AUTO Trailer Lock. This lock is designed for ¼ and ¾ inch couplers and offers pretty good security for its price. And with the minimalistic design, using the lock is also pretty easy. However, it is still made up of high-strength steel to avoid external damage.
On the other hand, if you travel to distant locations quite often and are constantly worried about the safety of your trailer, you should protect it with the Proven Trailer Lock. This is arguably the strongest and most reliable option that we have on this list today. Designed for the 2-5/16 inches coupler size, this lock works out perfectly for all instances. All of the internal locking parts of the Proven Industries 2516 Trailer Lock are made up of hardened steel covered inside a tough exterior cover.
Lastly, we will suggest the CURT Trailer Lock since thousands of trailer owners are also using the same without any problem. This is the most popular option available on our list which is designed for ⅝ inch couplers. It also features a high-strength steel construction to avoid damage caused by any form of external impact. And compared to other options, the CURT 23518 Black Trailer Hitch Lock is quite small and measures only 8.87 x 1.87 x 1.25 Inches, almost invisible from the outside.
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