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Top 10 Best Trailer Hitch Locks In 2022 Review

A trailer is a valuable piece of equipment, just like the vehicle you use to tow it. When not in use, though, how are you supposed to secure it?

This is where some of the Best Trailer Hitch Locks come into play. No matter if you leave your trailer attached or detached, there are some great locks available to you. Therefore, in this roundup, we are going to be looking at both coupler style locks and hitch pin locks. We will provide you the ins and outs of each.

So, the next time you are shopping for a quality trailer hitch lock, you will know exactly where to start!

Let’s go through them starting with our…

Top 10 Best Trailer Hitch Locks Reviews

ProductsTypeCompatibilityPriceRating

Type
Pin
Compatibility
2” Receiver
Price
$
4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Type
Coupler
Compatibility
1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers
Price
$$
4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Type
Pin and Coupler
Compatibility
2” Receivers and 1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers
Price
$$$
4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Type
Coupler
Compatibility
1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers
Price
$$$
4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Type
Pin
Compatibility
Andersen Rapid Hitch and 2” Receivers
Price
$$$
4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Type
Pin
Compatibility
2” Receivers
Price
$$
4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Type
Pin
Compatibility
2” Receivers
Price
$$$
4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Type
Coupler
Compatibility
1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers
Price
$$$$
4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Type
Coupler
Compatibility
1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers
Price
$$$
4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Type
Coupler
Compatibility
1-7/8", 2", and 2-5/16" Couplers
Price
$$
4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

1 Master Lock 2866DAT 1/2 in. and 5/8 in. Swivel Head Receiver Lock for Class I-IV, 1 Pack, Black – Most Durable Trailer Hitch Lock

The Master Lock 2866DAT is first up in our reviews of the best quality hitch locks for trailers. This lock offers two different sized locking pins. You have a 1/2” hitch pin that is class 1 and 2 rated for up to 3,500lbs. Master Lock also provides a 5/8” pin that is rated for up to 10,000lbs that will cover class 3 and 4 hitches.

Each pin has a usable length of 2-3/4”. They are secured in place by a rotating locking head that features a 4-pin internal cylinder.

Push to lock…

This receiver lock features what Master Lock calls a Push to Lock™ mechanism. As the name suggests, all you have to do is push the locking head on to the pin until you hear it click. Therefore, it really couldn’t be much easier to secure this lock in place.

To unlock it, you will find two keys are provided. However, these keys are relatively small, so be careful not to lose them!

Weather Tough®…

Located on the metal locking head, you will notice a black cover surrounding it and a plug covering the keyhole. These will protect the lock from impacts, rain, and rust.

Master Lock’s Weather Tough® locks are made to withstand the elements no matter how extreme they may be. And Master Lock is so confident in this lock they have provided a limited lifetime warranty, so you should have nothing to worry about.



Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • Lock head rotates 360 degrees making it easy to unlock.
  • Comes with both 1/2” and 5/8” receiver pins.
  • Key lock cylinder has a waterproof cap.

Cons

  • The included keys are small and easy to misplace.

2 Master Lock – Universal Size Fits 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16″ Couplers – Trailer Locks #389DAT

Next up, and again from Master Lock, is their 389DAT trailer hitch coupler lock, which is designed to fit in the ball-shaped section of your trailer hitch.

When this trailer lock is in place, you won’t forget that it is there due to its bright red color. Master Lock has included two keys that are unique to the specific lock they come with.

Simple to use…

To secure this lock to your trailer hitch, you first need to unlock it and slide the two sections away from one another. From there, place the ball-shaped section into your trailer hitch coupler. Push the rear section towards the front area so that the hooked portion is on top of the coupler.

Lock it into position, and you are done.

Universal Fit…

While this is labeled as a universal fit lock, it does have its limitations. However, it is made to fit pretty much any 1-7/8”, 2”, and 2-5/16” couplers, so you should be fine.

We noticed that it fits more securely on smaller couplers. But, if it is attached to larger-sized couplers, it will wiggle slightly from side to side but will not come off.

Built to last…

One thing we love about this coupler lock is just how durable the lock feels. It is made from cast aluminum and weighs 2lbs 6 ounces. The majority of it is waterproof as well due to the enamel paint that covers it.



Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Pros

  • Can attach to multiple different sized couplers.
  • Red enamel finish provides protection from water.
  • Comes with two uniquely designed keys.

Cons

  • It could fit tighter to your hitch coupler.

3 Reese Towpower 7014700 Tow ‘N Store Lock Kit – Best Value for the Money Trailer Hitch Lock

This kit from Reese Towpower is an all in one security solution whether you are towing or storing your trailer.

This kit comes in multiple pieces and features a universal coupler lock that can accommodate 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16” sized couplers. This uses a ratchet-style locking mechanism. All you need to do is place this coupler lock in place and press down on the shackle to secure it in place.

Next, you will have a 1/2” and 5/8” diameter hitch pins for securing your trailer to your receiver. They both use a cam and ball bearing type locking mechanism with a waterproof cover to protect the lock cylinder.

Additional security…

This kit even comes with a padlock that can be used to lock your coupler lever in place. Reese Towpower has also included two keys with this lock kit. And both these keys will unlock the coupler lock, the hitch pins, or the padlock.

You will also love the reasonable price point this Tow N Store kit comes at.

However, there’s a catch…

The only downside of this kit, in our opinion, is the material the coupler is made from. We believe it is a zinc-alloy, and if so, that means that it could be cut or even melted off.



Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros

  • Bright yellow coupler is easy to use.
  • Two different sized hitch pins and a padlock.
  • All of the components are keyed alike.

Cons

  • The ratchet-style mechanism on the coupler lock could be more robust.

4 Master Lock 377KA Trailer Hitch Lock, Fits 1-7/8 in., 2 in., and Most 2-5/16 in. Trailer Couplers, Chrome

Master Lock is certainly starting off with a lot of strong options in this Best Trailer Hitch Locks roundup. The final example we are going to look at from them is their 377KA model coupler lock.

Definitely stands out…

The 377KA attaches to your coupler’s hitch ball section, just like the last model we looked at. It is manufactured from hardened steel and is chrome-plated, making it very noticeable when attached.

This lock is rather heavy, coming in at just over 3.5 pounds. As with other Master Lock products we have reviewed, there are two keys included with this coupler lock.

Take note…

Located on the box, you will notice a key number printed on the side of it. If you read it carefully, it says that this key will fit most 377KA model locks! While we haven’t been able to test this on other 377KA model locks to see if the keys are interchangeable, this does make us quite concerned.

On the plus side…

This lock features a shutter type flap protecting the mechanism’s internal sections. This makes it much more difficult to be picked.

Once your key is inserted, you will want to turn it all the way to the right. Hold the key in place, and then slide the locking pin section away from the ball section. Simply place this into your coupler and slide the lock pin inwards till it is secure.



Our rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Pros

  • Made from heavy-duty steel.
  • Can attach to 1-7/8”, 2”, and 2-5/16” couplers.
  • Shiny chrome plating makes it easy to see.

Cons

  • The four-pin lock cylinder could be much more secure.

5 Andersen Hitches Stainless Steel Lock Set for Rapid Hitch Only (3492) – Most Secure Trailer Hitch Lock

Andersen Hitches 3492 model hitch lock is made for use with their Rapid Hitch system. This lock comes with a pin for securing the receiver and one for the Rapid Hitch adjustable mount. It features Andersen’s Clik-Lock™ system, which integrates a triple ball bearing system with a cam mechanism.

Andersen provides an aluminum end cap that can be used between the two pins. At the tip of the cap, you will find a removable cover that protects the locking cylinder from rain and dust.

Safe and secure…

With the end cap in place, insert one of the two heavy-duty keys that come included. Turn, and the end cap will come loose. You will notice that the key will not come out of the end cap. When you replace the end cap, you will hear a ‘click’ sound, and then the key can be freed.

This lets you know that it is securely locked each and every time. These keys also feature a side tumbler design making them even more secure. They are also reversible and keyed the same as one another. This means you can use either key in any direction to control the locking mechanism.

Rust Proof…

Andersen has crafted this lockset out of stainless steel. It features 99% rustproof materials, and the inside shank measures 3-1/2″ long by 5/8″ in diameter.

While Andersen says these locks only work on their Rapid Hitch system, that isn’t necessarily true. As long as you have a 2” receiver that has 5/8” diameter holes, you should be absolutely fine.

Not going anywhere…

This trailer hitch lock has been tested to withstand 30,000lbs of shear strength. You can rest assured your trailer will be secured safely each and every time you use this lock.



Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Pros

  • Keys are reversible.
  • Made from stainless steel.
  • Can withstand 30,000lbs of shear strength.

Cons

  • Compatibility.

6 Trimax T-3BLACK Premium 5/8” Key Receiver Lock Rugged Black epoxy Powder Coat

The Trimax T-3 receiver lock measures 5/8” in diameter and spans 2-3/4”. It is compatible with both class 3 and 4 hitches that are 2” in size.

Goes the distance…

This trailer hitch lock is crafted from hardened steel. The T-3 is also coated in a black epoxy to prevent rust and to increase the overall lifespan of the product.

Trimax has tested the T-3 to withstand up to 32,000lbs of pressure. And the locking mechanism uses ball bearings and a cam system for security.

Keys…

Trimax has included tubular type keys with this hitch lock. Tubular, also sometimes called radial keys, offer a significant amount of security and cannot be easily copied.

To open this lock, you will have to lift up the dust cover on the removable cap to insert the key and give it a small turn.

With the end cap off, you will notice a small rubber O-ring. This O-ring is meant to stop any water or debris from entering the locking mechanism’s internal components. When you place the end cap back on, it will snap into place.



Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros

  • Tubular locking mechanism is very secure.
  • O-ring seal for added protection from the weather.
  • Black epoxy coating prevents rust.

Cons

  • The dust cap could fit more securely into the end cap.

7 motormic Trailer Hitch Lock Pin Set – 5/8” and 1/2” Extra Long Black Pins with One Locking System – Best Heavy Duty Trailer Hitch Lock

This set from Motormic includes both a 5/8” and 1/2” pins for use on class 1 to 5 hitches. Both lock pins feature extra-long shafts that have 3-1/2” of usable space. You will find the extended shafts fit perfectly into vehicles that have heavy-duty tow packages equipped.

The locking mechanism on this set of locks is tubular as well and comes with two keys and one locking end cap that can be secured to either pin. Locking this end cap in place is a little bit different from the other locks we have seen. With the end cap off, you will notice that the tubular keyhole is in a raised position.

When you connect the end cap to the pin, you will want to push down on the keyhole to secure the two pieces together.

Safety Clip…

Since these trailer hitch locks are extra-long, Motormic has included an extra safety feature. On both of the lock pins, there is an extra hole for inserting a safety clip. Therefore, these lock pins can be used even without the locking mechanism.

Also located along the shafts of the locking pins are O-rings, which prevent the locking pins from vibrating or rattling. When we tested this product, the O-rings definitely made a difference. However, this trailer hitch lock will still rattle a little, unfortunately, especially on shorter receivers.



Our rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Pros

  • Comes with two different sized locks.
  • Can be used in classes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 hitches.
  • Safety pin is included for extra security.

Cons

  • The O-rings could be larger to prevent more unnecessary vibration.

8 Trimax UMAX100 Premium Universal ‘Solid Hardened Steel’ Trailer Lock (fits All couplers) – Best Premium Trailer Hitch Lock

This next option from Trimax is the most expensive product we are going to look at in this Best Quality Trailer Hitch Locks roundup.

Right off the bat, you will notice just how heavy this lock weighs. It comes in at 6 pounds and is made from hardened steel. The UMAX100 from Trimax has a two-part design. You have an adjustable metal shackle with a metal locking mechanism.

Ultimate protection…

Covering the majority of the locking mechanism is a black nylon housing. This is meant to protect the mechanism from the elements or from an impact.

There is a small sliding cover located below the Trimax lettering that hides the keyhole. It has a tubular type lock and comes with two very heavy-duty keys.

Secure but challenging…

Like other coupler locks, you will want to position the ball-shaped section in place first. The UMAX100 then uses a bent u-shaped shackle to hold the pieces together. You will notice grooves or, as we like to call them, teeth along the shackle’s sides. These teeth are not spring-loaded.

You need to make sure the lock is disengaged; otherwise, you won’t be able to adjust it into position. This does make it a little more challenging to secure it tightly, in our opinion.



Our rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)

Pros

  • Universal fit for all 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16” couplers.
  • 7-pin tubular keys are heavy-duty.
  • Ballistic grade nylon cover is impact resistant.

Cons

  • Since it doesn’t have a spring-loaded shackle, it is challenging to secure it tightly.
  • Expensive.

9 Blaylock TL-33 Coupler Lock – Most Versatile Trailer Hitch Lock

The TL-33 coupler lock from Blaylock is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. It comes with a 3/4” steel locking pin to secure it in place and is resistant to rust.

Very versatile…

Located on the aluminum base, you will notice three different pinhole locations for use depending on the type of coupler your trailer has. This allows the TL-33 to work with latch, trigger, or hand-wheel style couplers. It fits comfortably on 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16” hitch couplers.

Attaching this coupler lock in place couldn’t be easier. Place the hitch ball section into the coupler of your trailer. Then just slide the steel locking pin into place.

But there’s a catch…

You will notice an empty hole measuring 3/8” in diameter on the end of the locking pin. You are going to want to secure a compatible lock into this hole. The only problem is that Blaylock doesn’t include one with their TL-33 model coupler lock. However, this does leave you with the ability to choose your preferred type of locking mechanism.

You could use a simple padlock, or if you already own a hitch pin lock, you could even use it in place of the steel pin Baylock has provided and secure it that way.



Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Pros

  • Simple design makes it easy to use.
  • Compatible with hand-wheel, trigger, and latch type couplers.
  • Made from aircraft-grade aluminum.

Cons

  • The locking mechanism is not included.

10 Tow Ready (63228) ‘Gorilla Guard’ Coupler Lock for 2” Couplers

Last up is the Tow Ready Gorilla Guard coupler lock. The Gorilla Guard is meant for hitch couplers with a flat lip along their bottom edge and 2-5/16” in size. In fact, the entirety of your couplers bottom edge needs to be thinner than 4-1/2” for the Gorilla Guard to fit.

It incorporates a cylinder type locking mechanism that slides in and out, and that uses tubular keys. You will notice as you slide the locking cylinder in and out that the steel locking pin underneath will also move.

Durability…

The Gorilla Guard is made from cast aluminum and has a steel locking pin. Once you place this in position all, you have to do is press in on the lock cylinder. The steel pin will rise and secure the lock in place against your coupler, and that the Gorilla Guard will slide around the lip of your coupler.

Just because it slides around doesn’t mean it isn’t securely attached. And unfortunately, the design could allow for it to be used as leverage and be forcibly removed.



Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros

  • Can accommodate wide edged couplers.
  • Push to lock mechanism is easy to use.
  • Inexpensive.

Cons

  • It just doesn’t feel that secure when attached.

Best Trailer Hitch Locks Buying Guide

Best Trailer Hitch Locks Review

Throughout this Best Hitch Locks for Trailers roundup, we have focused on coupler and pin style locks. They each have their own pros and cons, depending on what your needs are. So, let’s go through them…

Coupler Style Locks

These are made specifically for protecting your trailer from theft when not in use. They are designed to fit into or cover the ball receptacle section of your hitch. They come in a few different designs, and many coupler locks feature removable shackles incorporated on a base with a ball-shaped hitch plug.

Some also use a simple base and pin type design. While others use a sliding bracket to secure your trailers hitch when not in use.

Pin Type Locks

These are good at securing the tube section of your hitch. They are pretty simple in design and usually incorporate a removable end cap type locking mechanism.

Not all trailer hitch couplers or even receivers will be the same size. Trailer hitch coupler locks will typically provide a universal type fit for 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16” sized couplers. Pin locks can vary in length and diameter. They will almost always be compatible with 2” hitch receivers, though.

Hitch Receivers

These are rated as either class 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. The class number refers to how strong the hitch is. To be on the safe side, you want to make sure you get a locking pin that is as strong as your hitch class.

Other factors

Best Trailer Hitch Locks Buying Guide

Another thing you need to take into consideration is what the lock is made from. Typically, manufacturers will use hardened steel or cast aluminum.

Whatever lock you go with, you want to make sure it is resistant to rain and rust. Pin type locks usually incorporate dust covers and O-rings in the locking mechanism to also aid in preventing water or debris from getting in.

Security

The type of locking mechanism that is incorporated in your trailer hitch lock has a lot to do with how secure it will be. Most of the locks on the market use cylinder type locking mechanisms. These will usually use a standard type key lock or a tubular type mechanism.

Both offer a great deal of security. Key type locks might also feature added security measures etched into the keys for even more security.

Keys

Manufacturers will almost always provide you with at least two keys for your lock. However, some manufacturers only use a few different model keys for their locks. Therefore, another buyer of the same kit could potentially have a key that would work in your lock.

There are also trailer hitch locks that will use a padlock to secure a pin, for example. This will give you the ability to change or choose any padlock you want.

To summarize, go for a lock that reassures you that your trailer will be right where you left it, time and time again.

Looking for more superb motoring accessories?

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So, what are the Best Trailer Hitch Locks?

All things considered, we have to give the win to the…

Andersen Hitches 3492 Stainless Steel Lock

It is the perfect lock for anyone who uses Andersen’s Rapid Hitch system, or that has a compatible receiver. The two stainless steel pins are very robust and are able to withstand 30,000lbs of shear strength while also being rustproof.

Thanks to the ball bearing and the cam Clik-Lock™ system that Andersen uses, you can rest assured your trailer hitch is secured. Plus, locking or unlocking the pins is a straightforward process thanks to the two reversible keys that are included.

If you want your trailer hitch to be as secure as possible, you can’t go wrong with these pin locks from Andersen.

Happy towing.

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