Car theft is a concern for many vehicle owners, and the thought of your prized possession being stolen is understandably worrying. When it comes to car security, steering wheel locks are often touted as a visible deterrent. But are they truly the Best Steering Lock solution, or are we focusing on the wrong things when it comes to protecting our vehicles?
Many car enthusiasts invest in security measures, hoping to create an impenetrable fortress around their cars. You might see cars with steering wheel locks, alarms, and even driveway posts. The intention is clear: make the car as difficult to steal as possible. However, sometimes these measures can be overkill and may not provide the security you think they do.
Take the example of a friend who owned a Golf R. He was so concerned about theft that he used both a steering wheel lock and a driveway post. Despite these visible deterrents, thieves weren’t discouraged. Instead of being thwarted, they escalated their tactics, breaking into his house and threatening him with a knife to get the car keys. This extreme scenario highlights a crucial point: if determined thieves want your car, a steering lock, or any single device, might not be enough to stop them, and could even make you a target for more aggressive methods.
While a best steering lock might seem like a good first step, it’s worth considering if over-reliance on such devices takes away from the pleasure of owning a nice car. Constantly worrying about theft and implementing layer upon layer of security can become stressful. The joy of owning a vehicle can be diminished by the constant paranoia.
If you’re still considering using a steering wheel lock, there are a couple of tips to minimize potential damage to your steering wheel. Firstly, applying soft foam, like door frame insulation tape, to the inside of the lock can cushion the pressure points. Secondly, using an oversized plastic steering wheel cover can help distribute the lock’s pressure more evenly across the wheel, reducing concentrated stress.
Ultimately, while steering locks offer a visual deterrent, perhaps the focus should shift from creating Fort Knox-level security to enjoying your car responsibly. Accepting that determined thieves may find a way, regardless of your precautions, might be a more realistic and less stressful approach. Instead of solely relying on a steering lock and other potentially easily bypassed devices, consider a more balanced approach to car security that doesn’t detract from the enjoyment of your vehicle.
