I want to buy something to help protect my spare from being stolen from idiots that have nothing better to do than steal/vandalize other peoples property (our driveway attracts them like crazy). And, I'm debating between wheel locks (100% secure), or just a spare tire cover (not 100% secure...). I'm leaning towards the spare cover, because it also protects the wheel and tire from the elements. But, I was wondering if anybody can just remove it or it has a lock? Also, is the cover easily washable? Thanks.

 

99% of wheel locks are not secure.....just tap an undersized socket on them and they screw right off. They will however keep honest people honest.

 

Wow, really? I was talking about the mopar ones by the way.

 

yeah dude really..im not a thief but anyone who has spent some time in a shop can pop those off just as fast as a reg lugnut...but i doubt someone is really on the prowl for a wrangler unlimited rim/tire

 

Well, I've heard of people getting theirs stolen in their driveway, and plus we've had in the past few years had these things happen:
- got broken into dodge ram
- got tires slashed on dodge ram
- got plate holder ripped off on dodge ram (minor, but still)

I think it's better to be safe than sorry...

EDIT: plus its anoying to always have to park backwards against the garage door at night in fear of getting the spare stole. I know I may be paranoid, but what can you do lol

 

Agree, the lug locks are not a deterant from a determined thief. In fact most of the devices out there for spares will not stop someone who is determined to take it. Wheel cover might be the best solution as the thief will figure it's a getto spare and not bother because if you have a nice spare wheel you want to show it off. The only other good solution is to get an aftermarket rear bumper and carrier, which you can lock the tire to the thick steel of the carrier, still not 100%, but most will not bother, they'll search for an easier target.

 

Thanks for the replies. I guess keeping a spare 100% safe from theives will cost just as much, if not more than the spare itself then... I don't know anymore, I might just take my chances then and spend money elsewhere on the jeep, like those nice door entry guards I've been eyeing LOL

 

I just bought a set of wheel locks that come with a spinning shield over the lug that only has a very small space for the "key" to slide into between the shield and the nut. Not sure if anyone is familiar with these. I would be happy to provide the link if you PM me. I can't say they are theft-proof, but I think these would be very hard (?impossible) to remove without the key.

 

I don't know if I want to buy the wheels locks still. I'm sort of discouraged by the responses lol But I'd like to take a look at those. PM sent. Thanks.

 

Please don't take my remarks wrong......I still have locks, and I think they help. I just know that if someone really wants them, they are gone. I do feel they will deter allot of would be thieves...