Hitch Locks and Trailer Theft Prevention
Share
Hitch accessories and trailers are easy targets: a standard hitch pin comes out in seconds, and an unlocked trailer can be hooked to someone else's vehicle just as quickly. The right lock depends on what you're protecting.
Two kinds of lock, two jobs
| Receiver (hitch pin) lock | Coupler lock | |
|---|---|---|
| Replaces or fits | The hitch pin through your receiver | The trailer's coupler |
| Protects | Your ball mount, bike rack or cargo carrier from being pulled out | A parked trailer from being hitched up and towed away |
| Size to check | Pin diameter — commonly 1/2" for 1-1/4" receivers, 5/8" for 2" and larger | The coupler size and style |
Receiver locks
A locking hitch pin replaces your standard pin and clip. Measure the pin diameter and the receiver width before buying. Some are sold in sets keyed alike with a coupler lock. Browse hitch locks.
Coupler locks
- Latch locks lock the coupler closed while you're towing, so it can't be opened at a stop.
- Ball-style or plug-style coupler locks fill the empty coupler of a parked trailer so it can't be put on a ball.
Browse couplers and coupler locks.
More ways to protect a parked trailer
- Park with the coupler against a wall or behind a vehicle so it's hard to reach.
- Add a wheel lock or boot to the coupler lock.
- Take the ball mount off your vehicle when you don't need it.
- Photograph the trailer and note its serial number (VIN) in case it's ever stolen.
Locks rust too — a little lubricant in the keyway through winter keeps them working. See hitch maintenance.