Securing the optimal steering wheel lock for your vehicle: A guide
Secure Your Ride: Car Steering Wheel Locks as Your Extra Line of Defense Against Theft
In the ever-evolving landscape of car theft, securing your vehicle has become more crucial than ever. Steering wheel locks step up as an affordable, readily accessible defense against potential thieves. But how do you choose the right one for your auto? Let's dive in.
With Victoria recording a surge in car theft incidents in 2024, reaching a 20-year high of 25,153 thefts and 3,769 attempts, according to the Crime Statistics Agency, it's no wonder that motorists are seeking solutions to fortify their vehicle's security.
Akin to trailer anti-theft devices, steering wheel locks serve as a visible deterrent to opportunistic thieves. These simple yet effective solutions act as an obstacle, adding complexity to the theft process and potentially dissuading would-be thieves.
"A steering wheel lock serves as a clear deterrent. It adds an extra layer of complexity to breaking into and starting a vehicle, thus reducing the likelihood of your vehicle being targeted," explains James Williams, Head of Policy at RACV.
Enhanced protection can come in various forms. Alongside using a visible deterrent like a steering wheel lock, Williams suggests parking in well-lit areas, fitting a vehicle tracker with visible signage, and installing an OBD lock to make would-be thieves think twice.
However, it is essential to know that steering wheel locks are not foolproof. A determined thief intent on stealing a vehicle might bypass the lock and other preventive measures. Removing valuables like wallets, electronics, and jewelry from your car reduces the attractiveness of your vehicle as a target.
So, how do steering wheel locks work? They immobilize the steering wheel by craftily preventing it from turning. Though the ignition can still be turned on, steering becomes almost impossible without removing the lock.
Most steering wheel locks are locked or unlocked using a key. It's crucial to keep the key and any spare copies separate from your vehicle to ensure effectiveness when needed. When not in use, it's best to store the lock securely in your vehicle's boot to prevent accidental damage or loss.
Steering wheel locks come in a variety of styles, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Bar Locks – The most common type, bar locks feature a metal bar that clamps onto the steering wheel. They are adjustable to fit most modern steering wheels and offer a good balance of convenience and security.
T-Bar Locks – Similar to bar locks, T-bar locks lock onto the steering wheel in the 12 o'clock position and extend over the dashboard. They provide effective deterrence, are easy to install, and make for an excellent daily protection solution.
Cord Locks – Cord steering locks, akin to a corded bike lock, wrap around the steering wheel before anchoring to an in-car point, typically the seatbelt clasp. While easy to store and use, they can be vulnerable to cutting by thieves.
Brake/Pedal Locks – Similar to T-bar locks, brake or pedal locks typically clamp onto the bottom of the steering wheel, in the 6 o'clock position. They extend out to latch to the brake pedal, thus inhibiting both steering and driving. They offer increased security but can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations to engage.
Full Cover Locks – These covers encapsulate the entire steering wheel, rendering it impossible to tamper with. They provide high theft resistance, but their bulkiness and size limit usability.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of the chosen steering wheel lock lies in its capability to deter would-be thieves and act as a visible deterrent. Incorporating the lock into your vehicle's layered security strategy is the key to keeping your ride secure.
In the pursuit of enhancing vehicle security, a combination of strategies can be beneficial. Given Victoria's increased car theft incidents in 2024, one might consider the use of a steering wheel lock as a visible deterrent, complementing other measures such as parking in well-lit areas and installing a vehicle tracker. Additionally, owning sports cars, which might attract more attention, could encourage the adoption of a car-maintenance routine that includes the installation of a steering wheel lock for extra protection.
