Top 7 Best Trailer Hitch Locks in 2022 [Protect Your Trailer] | Reviews & Buying Guide

Most people park their trailers on the street or outside their garage. They are always worried that their trailer might get stolen.

Unattended and unsecured trailers are easy to steal, and they have very low chances of being recovered. And even if they are found, your precious cargo will be stolen for sure.

At that time, the trailer hitch lock becomes your best bet. Compared to the total cost of your trailer, the cost of the hitch lock is nothing.

The trailer hitch lock is a small investment that will protect your trailer from potential thieves.

But as you may know, there are tons of trailer locks available on the market right now from affordable price range to outrageously high price range.

So what is the best trailer hitch lock, you might think?

We have tested many trailer Hitch Locks and after rigorous testing, we conclude that the Reese 7014700 is the Best Trailer Lock that comes with coupler lock, receiver lock as well as a padlock.

Quick Answer: The Best Trailer Hitch Lock

1. Reese 7014700 Tow ‘N Store Lock Kit

Reese 7014700 is our top pick for the best trailer hitch lock. Most RVers and trailer owners don’t know if they should choose the receiver lock or coupler lock. Well, you will be surprised to know that the Reese 7014700 includes a universal coupler lock as well as a dual bent pin lock, which is just amazing.

One of the biggest selling points of this trailer lock is that it is universal, meaning that it can fit any receiver and coupler of the trailer. If we go into more detail, then the dual bent pin receiver will fit both 5/8” and ½” trailer receivers.

This whole kit includes one universal coupler lock, one brass coupler lock, and two dual bent pin receiver locks(one for class I & II hitches and another for class III & above hitches). All these locks are keyed alike so that it will save you a lot of trouble.

This kit is very versatile and has a lot of safety features, and still, it is reasonably priced so that everyone can afford it.

Other than that, the bright yellow color of the lock deters the thief, and it protects the lock from rusting and corrosion. You can easily tow your trailer even with this lock put on.

The ball on the coupler lock is 2” thick, and it is made from aluminum. The sturdy and heavy-duty steel design of the lock scares anybody who is trying to steal your trailer quickly, and it is so strong that even several hammer blows won’t break it. This product comes with one year of warranty.

2. Tow Ready Gorilla Guard Coupler Lock

Tow Ready 63228 is the best coupler lock we have seen so far. Designed for 2-inch trailer couplers, this trailer lock provides a great anti-theft solution for unattended trailers.

The Tow Ready 63228 coupler lock can withstand many hammer blows until someone catches him. The black steel body acts as a theft deterrent, and unlike other trailer hitch locks, Tow Ready comes with different keys for safety reasons.

If you are not sure about the correct measurement/size of your coupler, then keep in mind that, in order to fit this trailer coupler lock, the coupler width (including lip) should not exceed 3-13/16-inches and height of coupler lip should not exceed 5/16-inches.

Generally speaking, this trailer coupler lock will fit most 2-inch couplers having a flat lip on the bottom edge.

Moving on, the locking system of this trailer lock is different from others; here’s how. To lock your trailer, you need to slide this lock into the tongue of the trailer hitch, and you are good to go.

Moreover, it uses the push-button locking mechanism meaning that you can lock the trailer without using any keys, which is a huge help.

The manufacturer even threw in a one-year warranty to show how reliable and long-lasting their products are.

3. Connor 1615320 Nickel Swivel Head Receiver Lock

Connor is a very reputable brand that builds quality security devices for RVs and all kinds of trailers, including boat trailers. All the trailer owners love this product, and they have described it as the best trailer receiver lock.

I love the heavy-duty stainless steel construction of this locking hitch pin, and its nickel finish protects the lock against water and dust. On top of that, the rubber key slot cap makes sure that this receiver lock survives the harsh weather conditions.

Now you don’t have to worry about finding the right size of receiver lock because this receiver lock fits most common hitch setups including Class I/II (1-1/4″ x 1-1/4″) and Class III/IV/V (2″ x 2″ and 2-1/2″ x 2-1/2″).

The Connor 1615320 comes with two locking hitch pins such as ½-inch pin and 5/8-inch pin. By using a small pin, you can easily tow trailers up to 3500 GTW (gross trailer weight), whereas the long pin is capable of towing trailers up to 20,000 GTW.

You will be blown away by its Auto-Lock and Release feature. When you turn the key ¼ of the way, the lock automatically releases from the pin, so it makes the locking process very easy and straightforward.

To make sure your trailer is perfectly locked, you will hear the clicking sound every time you lock the pin. Additionally, if you are in a hurry, you can lock the trailer by pushing the pin fully into the nickel swivel head even without using the keys.

You are getting this locking hitch pin with one year of warranty, and its unbeatable quality and reasonable price range is the reason why people choose this product over others.

4. Master Lock 2866DAT Receiver Lock

Master Lock 2866DAT is another versatile and cost-effective trailer hitch lock available on the market right now.

This locking hitch pin is constructed from tough cast iron, and the included hitch pins will fit both ½-inch and 5/8-inch receivers easily.

Moreover, the usable length of each hitch pin lock is 2-3/4-inch. That’s not all; the ½-inch pin is rated for 3500 pounds (class I/II trailers), whereas the 5/8-inch pin is rated for 10,000 pounds (class III/Iv trailers).

Other than that, the locking head rotates about 3600 degrees, which allows the keyway to face forward direction, so you don’t have to lock your trailer in awkward positions.

This receiver lock even features the push-to-lock locking mechanism to ensure you lock the trailer correctly. Also, the Weather Tough® seal and watertight cap prevent the moisture and dirt from entering into the keyway; hence its life expectancy increases drastically.

You can use this receiver lock for towing as well as a theft deterrent when your trailer is not in use. The hardened steel pin cannot break even after several hammer blows, and its bolt cutter-proof design will scare away the opportunistic thieves.

The chrome-plated pin is corrosion resistance. Also, the 4-pin tumbler mechanism adds another security level, and it prevents the lock picking.

The limited lifetime warranty on this product will give you peace of mind.

5. AMPLock U-BRP2516 RV/Trailer Coupler Lock

AMPLock U-BRP2516 is the most advanced and high-end coupler lock. Although its very expensive but trust me after buying this trailer hitch lock, you don’t have to worry about your caravan/trailer ever again.

Please note that AMPLock U-BRP2516 can only fit the 2-5/16 inches couplers, so don’t forget to check the coupler size of your trailer. Moreover, this premium lock is molded to fit the specific shape of the coupler when unhitched.

Moving on, its push and lock system is very reliable and ensures that the trailer is perfectly locked. Also, it fits perfectly onto the coupler without leaving any space so the thieves can’t pick it. On top of that, this tight fit gives secure access to the coupler, so the trailer is protected even when it is unhitched.

Its cylinder lock is unpickable whereas the rotating face of the lock prevents the drilling. This trailer hitch lock is made from the combination of stainless steel and ducted cast iron, which absorbs the shocks instead of breaking the lock.

This trailer lock is thick enough to slow down any cutting attempt, and it can resist torch cut and liquid nitrogen. Even the severe hammer blows will not destroy this trailer coupler lock, and the swivel design of the lock prevents vehicle traction when it is locked.

The outer layer of this trailer lock is coated with electrostatic paint, which resists the corrosion and rust; therefore, its overall lifespan increases.

So if you are looking for a premium trailer lock that will last for years, then AMPLock U-BRP2516 is worth looking into.

6. CURT 23518 Trailer Hitch Lock

CURT 23518 is yet another trustworthy product I had found when I was researching for the best trailer hitch locks. The high-strength steel construction of this hitch locking pin protects your trailer and trailer hitch ball mount from theft.

This barbell-style locking hitch pin uses the 1/4-turn lock system for convenient locking and unlocking of the trailer. Also, its impenetrable appearance deters the thief away.

This receiver hitch lock has a diameter of 5/8-inch and the usable pin length is 2.85 inches. Its 5/8-inch hole will fit most trailer hitches but please note that it is not compatible with double-walled receiver tubes.

The included watertight dust cap protects the internal components of the lock from dust and water. To stop the rust and corrosion accumulating on the outer layer of the lock, the whole body is coated with special Powder.

On top of that, the outer layer of the lock is coated with a special power, which shields the lock from corrosion and rust.

As you probably know the hitch lock is designed to insert into the fastener hole of the receiver tube to hold the ball-mount accessory in place. Well, the CURT takes it one step further by allowing you to lock your ball mount into the trailer hitch.

So this way, the CURT 23518 will prevent anyone from detaching your trailer and towing it away without your permission. The towing capacity of this trailer hitch lock is up to 16,000 pounds for class V trailers.

Last but not least, this lock comes with two keys so you can carry one of them and store the other one in a safe location.

7. Trimax UMAX100 Premium Universal Trailer Lock

Trimax UMAX100 is one of the most durable trailer hitch locks mentioned in our article. Its hardened steel body would make any thief think twice before stealing your trailer.

In my opinion, it will take so much effort and time to pry off this lock even with brute force such as hammer blows, and usually, thieves don’t like such locks that require so much time to break.

Although, the properly motivated thief can break this lock if he has enough time. Nevertheless, the main goal here is to stall the thief as long as possible until someone catches him during the act.

To complicate things for thieves even further, this coupler lock has an A-type key, which is spring-loaded. In other words, this lock cannot be picked easily.

What’s more, its housing cover is constructed from ballistic-grade polymer that is prone to hammer strikes and drill outs. Also, the dual force design allows you to securely chain your trailer to the ground by using the ground anchor or fence.

All these security features combined in one lock turns out to be the worst nightmare of thieves/vandals, and this top-notch hitch lock will protect your unattended trailer at any cost.

Trimax UMAX100 trailer hitch lock comes in one size that will fit most coupler types from 1-7/8″, 2″, to 2-5/15″ setups.

Just like all the trailer locks, Trimax UMAX100 comes with a sliding keyhole cover to seal out the dirt and grime.

Trimax believes in its products, and that is why they have offered a lifetime warranty on this product so you can replace the faulty product.

What is a trailer hitch lock?

Trailer hitch lock is a device that protects your trailer against would-be thieves. Typically, this device acts as a lock, and It keeps your trailer and receiver together, and it can only be unlocked with a unique key. So this way, no one can lift your trailer without your permission.

This type of lock is a great insurance policy for your trailer. I mean, without it, anyone can hitch your wagon to their vehicle and be on their way without leaving behind any traces.

However, please note that these devices (trailer hitch locks) are not a complete solution to protect your trailer, but instead, they act as a theft deterrent. The goal here is to scare the thieves in the first place and to cause them enough trouble while stealing the trailer so that someone can catch them in the act.

How does a trailer hitch lock work?

As I said earlier, the trailer lock protects your unattended trailers from opportunistic thieves and vandals. The function of trailer lock depends on the type of trailer, and as you know, there are many types of trailer setups available on the market.

Most of the trailer hitch locks fall into two categories; coupler hitch locks and receiver-style hitch locks.

The coupler hitch lock can be used on trailers only when it is unhitched. It fits on the ball of the hitch coupler; hence it is called the coupler hitch lock. Once the ball of the coupler is in place, you can put on the bar or rod, and then you can put on the coupler lock. This lock will only open by its unique key.

On the other hand, the receiver lock is completely different from coupler lock, here’s how. As you can probably guess, the receiver lock is attached to the receiver of the vehicle.

To use this lock, first, need to make sure the receiver of your vehicle is aligned with the hole of the mount accessory. After that, slide the hitch pin into the hole and push it all the way in. So now your hitch is locked.

Of course, there are different couplers available that will require different coupler locks, but these two locks we discussed above will work with most of the hitch and coupler setups.

What are the different types of trailer locks?

As we discussed earlier, there are two types of trailer locks, namely receiver-style hitch lock and coupler hitch lock. They both are a lot different from each other in terms of their inner workings and their function.

Receiver-style Hitch Locks

Receiver style lock is nothing but a metal pin with a lock on the ends; however, some locks come with a lock on both ends, and some locks come with one curved end and the other end with swivel head so no one can easily pull it from the vehicle’s receiver.

Receiver locks are used to protect your trailer from a driveway or parking area when it is hitched to the vehicle, which is why they become useless when your trailer is unhitched. So never unhitch your trailer in the area where it can be stolen easily.

Other than protection, this type of lock is also used for towing purposes. The steel construction of the metal is strong enough to pull any trailer up to 20,000 pounds of weight depending on the hitch pin’s strength.

Nevertheless, the receiver lock is a valuable investment whether you want to protect your unattended trailer hitch or tow it.

Coupler Hitch Locks

The coupler lock features the U-shape design, and it fits on the tongue of the trailer, ensuring that no one can hook up your trailer to their vehicle and run.

Usually, this type of lock comes with ball-shaped tops that go over the ball unit of the trailer, so it becomes very hard for any thief to steal your trailer.

Unlike receiver locks, coupler lock can be used even when the trailer is unhitched and parked in the driveway. So if you want to keep your unattended trailer safe in the parkway, then I would suggest you should purchase one of these trailer coupler locks.

What to look for when buying a trailer hitch lock?

Whenever you are purchasing your first trailer hitch lock, there are several factors you need to consider. We have created this buying guide to help you choose a better product.

Hitch Class/Coupler Size

A hitch is classified into five classes ranging from Class I to V, and not all types/sizes of hitch lock will support your hitch. Generally, ½-inch and 5/8-inch sized pins will fit most of the hitch setups.

For example, if you have class I or II hitch, then you should choose ½-inch hitch pin, and similarly, if you have class III or IV or V hitch, then you should select 5/8-inch hitch pin.

The wrong size pin will make it hard for you to fit the pin into the receiver; hence your money will go to waste. So that is why you need to determine the class and size of your vehicle’s receiver.

Usually, a 1-1/4-inch receiver lock is for class I and II hitches, whereas the 2-inch receiver lock is for class III, IV, and V hitches.

Now you are planning to buy the coupler lock; then you need to find out the correct ball size of your coupler. If your trailer’s coupler has a 2-inch ball, then you will need a 2-inch coupler hitch lock. The size of the coupler ball ranges from 1-7/8 to 2-5/16 inches that will fit most coupler locks.

There are many coupler locks available on the market that describe its size to be universal, which is completely wrong. So always check the ball size of your coupler and choose the lock accordingly.

Also, make sure you read the customer reviews so you can know if there is any problem with a particular coupler lock or receiver lock. This way, your hard-earned money will not be wasted.

Material

The material from which any particular lock is made determines its quality and reliability. Locks constructed from cast iron, stainless steel, or hardened steel are considered to be very high-quality, and they last for a long time.

Moreover, these materials are very tough and can absorb any attacks on it, so this way, any would-be thief will think twice before messing with your trailer.

There are some locks that come with an aluminum body, and the manufacturers describe it to be lightweight and strong.

However, aluminum locks don’t last long, and they can get damaged pretty easily. Anyone can break these locks by applying enough brute force on it so, that is why you should avoid such locks at any cost.

Lock Design

Some hitch locks come with keys that can unlock any product from that manufacturer. Manufacturers can easily produce these keyed alike hitch locks in large quantities, but it causes many problems to its users, here’s how.

Suppose any person were to get his hands on one of these keys so now that person has access to any property you have used this lock on. So this way anyone can steal your trailer.

As a customer, I wouldn’t consider the trailer lock that doesn’t come with a unique key. Also, the lock should have an advanced locking mechanism so it can’t be picked easily.

Life Expectancy

Some locks can’t withstand harsh environments and bad weather conditions, so they won’t last long. For example, any mediocre trailer lock will easily corrode due to its poor material; hence its locking mechanism may not work that well. So it will cause you a lot of trouble.

To avoid such hiccups we advise you to check out customer reviews. Trust me, if the product has any cons or disadvantages, then you will know it from other users, and similarly, if the product is genuinely good, then you will see positive reviews from RVers and trailer owners.

Any good trailer hitch lock should last a decent amount of time, even in bad weather conditions. We also advise you to check if the trailer lock has a water-resistant cap on the keyhole. This feature will protect the inner parts of the lock from corrosion, dust, and water.