This site contains affiliate links for which we may be compensated.


Can Any Lug Nut Lock Stop Wheel Theft?

Wheel Lug Nut Locks

Unfortunately, wheel theft is quite prevalent across the U.S., so if you don’t want the possibility of finding your car sitting on a set of blocks, then these handy theft deterrents can help prevent that

When you buy a new car or set of wheels, you may also want to purchase some security like a set of lug nut locks to prevent wheel theft.

Wheel lug nut locks are redesigned lug nuts that have theft-deterrent sockets and require a special key to remove. Each key has a different pattern etched onto it so that thieves can’t use a simple lug wrench or socket to remove the device, and eventually your wheels.

To determine which works the best, Todd at Project Farm tests several locking lug nut products:

  • Advanced Wheel Lock,
  • Gorilla Free Spinning Locking Lug Nut,
  • Gorilla’ Small Diameter Acorn Wheel Lock,
  • McGard Wheel Lock,
  • Dorman Wheel Lock With Spinning Collar,
  • White Knight Locking Lug Nut, and
  • Tavaski Wheel Lock.

Each wheel lock solution is tested and compared for resistance to being removed using locking pliers, a wheel lock extractor set, an oversized socket, a universal socket, and even a portable welder.

Spoiler Alert: There’s one very clear winner in this comparison!

Editor’s Note: Project Farm purchased all of the wheel locks and supplies used to test the wheel locks to ensure an unbiased review.

Wheel Lug Nut Lock Test Results

Wheel lug nut lock test results

Wheel Locks Tested In This Video

(in no particular order):

Best Wheel Lug Nut Lock Winner

Advanced Wheel Lock System: Available online at the manufacturers website.

Handheld Welder: