How to Install a Steering Wheel Lock: Step-by-Step Guide for UK Drivers

Car theft is a growing concern across the UK. Installing a steering wheel lock is an easy and relatively low-cost deterrents. Our guide will help you choose the correct steering wheel lock for your car and how to properly install it to ensure maximum security.

What You’ll Need

• A steering wheel lock (ideally sold secure–approved).

• The lock’s keys or code.

• A safe place to park while you fit it (driveway, garage, or side of the road).

Estimated time: 2–5 minutes.

Safety Notes (UK Drivers, Read First)

• Only fit or remove the lock while parked — never when driving.

• Make sure it doesn’t press on the airbag cover or obstruct stalks (indicators, wipers, cruise control).

• Keep the spare lock key away from your car keys (e.g. at home in a safe place).

• A steering wheel lock is a deterrent — not an absolute guarantee.

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Unlock and Prepare the Device

• Use the key or code to set the lock in the open position.

• Familiarise yourself with the mechanism (bar, clamp, or disc).

2. Position your Steering Wheel

• Turn the wheel so the rim sits level, or at a convenient angle for the lock design.

• Avoid placing the device against the centre airbag panel.

3. Fit the Lock

• Bar / “club” locks: hook one end over the rim, extend across the wheel, and lock into place.

• Disc locks: fit snugly over the wheel hub and spokes, blocking rotation.

• Clamp / pedal locks: secure around the rim, or between the wheel and brake/clutch pedal, as per instructions.

4. Secure and Test

• Lock the device firmly and remove the key.

• Tug or twist slightly to confirm it’s secure.

• Check it doesn’t obstruct stalks or controls.

What is a Steering Wheel Lock? Why Use One?

A brightly coloured metal visual deterrent that:

• Physically prevents the wheel from turning.

• Thieves are more likely to avoid your car with a visual deterrent.

• Low cost and no installation skills required.

• Works well with additional security measures such as alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices.

How to Choose the Right Steering Wheel Lock

Type	Description	Pros	Cons
Bar-Style Locks	Extends across wheel, usually brightly coloured	Highly visible, moderate cost	May be bulky
Enclosed Locks	Covers a large proportion of wheel	More secure as hard to bypass	More expensive
Pedal-to-Wheel Locks	Connects to a pedal to prevent turning	Very strong	More difficult to install

Features to Look for When Buying a Steering Wheel Lock:

• Anti-drill features

• Hardened steel materials

• Robust locking mechanism

• Size adjustments so it fits your vehicle

How to Avoid Car Theft

1. Don’t keep your steering wheel lock in your car when not in use.

2. Ensure you use a high-quality, anti-drill steering wheel lock.

3. Always lock your car whenever not in use.

4. Add additional security measures such as a GPS-tracker and/or Faraday pouch.

5. Park your car in a well-lit area so thieves don’t have the cover of darkness to hide in.

For more on car security be sure to check out our other blogs such as Key Fob Hacking: How to Prevent Relay Theft and Car Security Myths Debunked: What Actually Works? 

Steering Wheel Lock FAQs

Will a steering wheel lock damage my steering wheel?

Not if you use the steering wheel lock correctly and don’t tighten further than it needs. You can buy steering wheel locks with padded ends which are particularly useful if you have a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Which steering wheel lock type offers the best security?

Full-wrap and pedal-to-wheel tend to offer more protection as they really limit access to the wheel for burglars.

Is it legal to use a steering wheel lock in the UK?

Yes — steering wheel locks are legal in the UK. Just ensure they are fully removed when the car is in use to prevent it restricting the drivers view.

Can a thief override a steering wheel lock?

Yes, no security prevention is 100% fool proof, a determined thief could still break through the lock. However, seeing a lock combined with alarms, immobilisers, GPS trackers etc. you greatly reduce the chances of a thief even attempting to steal your car.