Are Steering Wheel Locks Worth It? (And Which Stoplock to Buy)
Are Steering Wheel Locks Worth It? (And Which Stoplock to Buy)
Steering wheel locks divide opinion: some drivers swear by them, others think they belong in the past. But with keyless-entry theft keeping vehicle crime stubbornly high, the humble steering lock has quietly become relevant again - and the reason is simpler than you might think.
The case for a visible deterrent
Most vehicle theft is opportunistic, and a thief choosing between two vans on the same street will almost always pick the easier target. A bright, high-visibility bar across the steering wheel changes that calculation before anyone touches your vehicle. Electronic immobilisers work silently in the background; a steering lock works before the attempt, by advertising that this vehicle is more effort than the one parked behind it.
What separates a good lock from a cheap one
Three things are worth checking before you buy:
- Independent testing. Look for attack-tested products with approval from Thatcham, the research centre trusted by the motor insurance industry. Thatcham Category 3 covers mechanical immobilisers like steering wheel locks.
- Fit. Larger forks and a deeper bend let a lock wrap around thicker rims and airbag wheels - important on modern vans especially.
- The keying. Unique key codes mean your lock isn't opened by the same key as thousands of others.
Which Stoplock is right for you?
We stock the Stoplock range, and the choice comes down to your vehicle and how far you want to go:
- Stoplock Pro Elite - the flagship. Fully attack tested and Thatcham Category 3 approved, with a deeper bend and larger forks that fit the majority of cars and vans, a unique key code, lifetime guarantee and a protective case.
- Stoplock Original with flashing LED - the classic bar with a built-in flashing LED for extra night-time deterrence.
- Stoplock van rear door lock - because van theft is as much about the load area as the cab. Pairs naturally with a steering lock for layered security.
Layer it up
No single device makes a vehicle theft-proof - security works in layers. A visible steering lock plus a locked load area plus sensible parking beats any one measure alone. Browse the full vehicle security range for wheel clamps, pedal boxes and more.
Stoplock Pro Elite Car Van Steering Wheel Lock Anti Theft Security Immobiliser
StoplockThe Stoplock Pro Elite steering wheel lock provides a clear, high-visibility deterrent against vehicle theft and fits the majority of cars and vans...
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Stoplock High Security Anti-Theft Van Rear Door Lock
StoplockEasy to use, fits rear or side doors Chrome plated hardened steel padlock with three keys Zinc plated and powder coated for ultimate corrosion res...
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Yale Locks Shed & Garage Alarm
Yale LocksThe Yale Shed & Garage Alarm comes with motion detection, the alarm will sound 10 seconds after motion is detected if PIN code is not entered. ...
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Scan Heavy-Duty Van Hasp & Padlock
ScanThe Scan Heavy-Duty Van Hasp & Padlock set is the ideal solution for securing double doors and vans, sheds and workshops. The nickel plated pad...
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Scan Heavy-Duty Van Hasp
ScanThe Scan Heavy-Duty Van Hasp is suitable for vans, sheds and workshops as a high security option. Can be used with the SCAPLVANREP van padlock or a...
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Scan Heavy-Duty Van Padlock
ScanThe Scan Heavy-Duty Van Padlock is suitable for use with the SCAVANHASP or as a replacement if required. This nickel plated padlock is very hard we...
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Squire Toughlok Lock & Chain Set 90cm x 5mm
SquireSquire Toughlok Lock & Chain Set offers excellent value for money. The chain, like the higher specification Squire chains, is hardened, so it i...
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Squire CP48PR Security Chain 1.2m x 6.5mm
SquireSecurity chain only. For securing bulky items complete with sleeve to help protect from scratches. Chain length: 1200mm.Link diameter: 6.5mm.Chai...
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Squire CP36PR Security Chain 90cm x 6.5mm
SquireSecurity chain only. For securing bulky items complete with sleeve to help protect from scratches. Chain length: 900mm.Link diameter: 6.5mm.Chain...
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Master Lock Combi Computer Cable Lock 1.8m x 5mm
Master LockThis Master lock MLK2120E Computer Cable Lock 1.8m x 5mm will secure any laptop, netbook, monitor or projector which has a built-in lock slot. It i...
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Master Lock Floor / Wall Anchor Mounting Point
Master LockHardened steel anchor point for mounting kit including expanding anchor bolts.Can be fixed to the floor or the wall. Clearance: 50mm.
Master Lock Black Self Coiling Keyed Cable 1.8m x 8mm
Master LockThe Master Lock No. 8126EURDPRO Keyed Cable Lock is 1,8m long and features 8mm diameter twisted steel for maximum strength and flexibility.The prot...
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Master Lock Van Lock
Master LockThis MasterLock MLK736E van lock is a must for all tradesmen that carry tools or expensive machinery in their vans. This easy to fit MasterLock com...
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Master Lock 8018E Hardened Steel Chain 2m x 8mm
Master LockAll Master Lock hardened steel chains with square links for better resistance to cutting. Vinyl cover prevents the chain from scratching your equip...
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Master Lock Mixed Color Keyed Armoured Cable 1m x 18mm
Master LockThe Master Lock No. 8228EURDPRO Keyed Cable Lock is 1m long and features a 18mm diameter armoured steel for maximum strength and flexibility.The pr...
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Master Lock Black Braided Steel Combination Cable 1.8m x 10mm
Master LockMaster Lock Black 10mm Braided Steel Combination Cable with integrated keyed lock or resettable combination. All Master Lock bike locks have a Lif...
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Master Lock Street Cuffs® Cycle Lock
Master LockThe Master Lock No. 8200EURDPRO Street Cuff®; Locks feature a 7.6cm diameter laminated steel construction, virtually impossible to cut. These anti-...
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Master Lock High Security U-Bar with Cable 280 x 110 x 13mm
Master LockMaster Lock High Security U-Bar offers complete protection and comes supplied with a looped cable. The 1.20m looped end cable is very convenient fo...
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Master Lock 8016E Hardened Steel Chain 1m x 8mm
Master LockAll Master Lock hardened steel chains with square links for better resistance to cutting. Vinyl cover prevents the chain from scratching your equip...
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Master Lock 8012E Hardened Steel Chain 1.5m x 6mm
Master LockAll Master Lock hardened steel chains with square links for better resistance to cutting. Vinyl cover prevents the chain from scratching your equip...
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Master Lock Black Braided Steel Keyed Cable 1.8m x 10mm
Master LockThe Master Lock No. 8130EURDPRO Keyed Cable Lock is 1.8m long and features a 10mm diameter braided steel for maximum strength and flexibility. The ...
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Master Lock Weather Tough 40mm Padlock & Chain 90cm x 6mm
Master LockThis practical steel chain is a perfect solution for the home, office, garden or when on the move. The 0.9m x 6mm steel links are covered in a nylo...
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Master Lock 8021E Hardened Steel Chain 2m x 10mm
Master LockAll Master Lock hardened steel chains with square links for better resistance to cutting. Vinyl cover prevents the chain from scratching your equip...
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Master Lock High Security U-Bar 210 x 110 x 13mm
Master LockThe MasterLock 8195 Black High Security U-Bar offers maximum security with its hardened steel shackles. The disc cylinder also provides a strong le...
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Master Lock Self Coiling Combination Cable 1.8m x 8mm
Master LockMaster Lock 1.8m Self Coiling Combination Cable with a pin tumbler cylinder and a coloured vinyl covering that helps to prevent scratching. All Ma...
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