Keeping your car secure needn’t be a difficult task. It can be as simple as anchoring it in place with a good wheel clamp. Devices like steering locks are another simple protection device, but a wheel clamp cannot be beaten for pure protection.
The visual aspect alone is often more than enough to deter most thieves, plus it’s almost impossible to remove them without being well prepared in advance for the job. Add that to your other security measures, and you’ll be well on the way to stopping your car from getting stolen.
Wheel clamps will render your car immobile when attached and are nearly impossible to remove without making a big noise, using some seriously powerful tools, and spending time. This is not ideal, as any would-be thief wants to get the job done and get away as quickly as possible. In short, unless you’ve locked up a very expensive car, a would-be thief will more than likely give a clamped vehicle a miss.
The best wheel clamps 2024 at a glance
We’ve compiled a list of the best wheel clamps currently on the market to give you peace of mind that your car will be where you left it when you return.
The best wheel clamps in detail
The best wheel clamp
Pros
- Offers wheel nut protection
- Good value option
- Two keys supplied
Cons
- Only suitable for up to 15" wheels
- Not ideal for SUVs
Editor's choice
Pros
- Sold Secure Gold approved, adding extra accreditation
- Easy to fit and take off
- Thorough fitting and key mechanism
Cons
- Rainwater can collect in the securing arms
Best wheel clamp for caravans
Pros
- Ultimate protection, including wheel nuts
- Protects wheels from scratches
- Durable build quality and materials
Cons
- Designed for caravans
Best wheel clamp for everyday use
Pros
- Wheel nut protection, adding extra security
- Has a tamper-proof lock
- Weather-resistant for optimum outdoor use
Cons
- Not suitable for larger wheels (17"+)
The best wheel clamp for quick protection
Pros
- Easy to attach and de-install again
- Lightweight option, making it easier to handle
- Durable materials and build quality
Cons
- No wheel nut protection
Best wheel clamp for larger wheels
Pros
- Wheel nut protection
- Fits larger wheels
- Sold Secure approval
Cons
- Can be tricky to fit
Best multi-purpose wheel clamp
Pros
- Sold Secure gold accreditation approved
- Wheel nut protection makes it extra secure
- Storage case included for easy storage
Cons
- Can be heavy and stiff to use when new
FAQs
Do wheel clamps stop thieves?
Wheel clamps can be an effective deterrent for the opportunist thief. They make moving a vehicle difficult or sometimes impossible without removing the clamp, requiring time, effort, and specialized tools. However, determined thieves may still find ways to bypass or remove wheel clamps, so while they can be a helpful security measure, they are most effective when used in conjunction with other security products and measures.
Is a wheel clamp better than a steering lock?
Both wheel clamps and steering locks serve as physical deterrents against vehicle theft but have different strengths and weaknesses.
Wheel clamps immobilize the vehicle by preventing the wheels from moving, making it extremely difficult for thieves to drive or tow the vehicle away. Steering locks, on the other hand, prevent the steering wheel from being turned, making it challenging for thieves to steer the vehicle even if they manage to start it. However, steering locks may not be as visually imposing as wheel clamps, and some models can be overcome simply by brute force.
Are Bulldog wheel clamps any good?
Bulldog Security is a well-known brand that produces a variety of security products for vehicles, including wheel clamps. Their wheel clamps are generally considered to be of high quality and effective in deterring theft. Bulldog wheel clamps typically feature robust construction and are designed to securely fit a range of wheel sizes.
Is it illegal to remove a DVLA wheel clamp?
Yes. It would be considered criminal damage, as removing a DVLA wheel clamp without causing any damage is almost impossible. If your vehicle has been clamped by the DVLA, it’s best to follow the proper procedures for legally having the clamp removed, as attempting to remove the clamp yourself without authorization can lead to further complications and legal consequences.
What is the most effective car theft deterrent?
The most effective car theft deterrent is a multi-layered approach that combines several security measures. While no single method can guarantee complete protection, implementing multiple deterrents can significantly reduce the risk of theft.
What you need to know about wheel clamps
What different types are there?
All wheel clamps that work with cars will attach to the tyre, and so are called tyre clamps. These wrap around the wheel and prevent the car from moving. Axle clamps are available for trailers and caravans, but they will not work with powered vehicles.
What features should you be looking for?
The best wheel clamps will cover the wheel nuts, giving you extra protection. That’ll make it harder to remove the wheel if a persistent thief tries to take the car by removing the wheel. With any clamp that covers the wheel nuts, make sure it has a rubber pad to protect your wheel from scratches.
Make sure that the lock is weather-resistant if you’re planning on leaving it outside. The last thing you’ll want is your car to be permanently immobile because the lock has seized.
The final thing to look for is a Sold Secure approval. This means that the wheel clamp has gone through independent testing, giving you the ultimate peace of mind. After that why not consider a car tracker for an extra layer of security?
How we choose
All of these wheel clamps have been hand-selected by our team of experts who have spent hours investigating and researching wheel clamps to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we’d never recommend a product we don’t believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about.
Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for Parkers, specialising in cleaning and hand tools. With an MA in Automotive Journalism, when he’s not testing buckets, he can be found looking at old Porsches
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Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections – read why you should trust us
Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.
