I had expensive McGard wheel locks on my Rays wheels. Thieves hammered a socket over them and stole the wheels in 2 minutes. When I asked my insurer if I got a discount for having the locks, they said, “No, that’s a passive device. We only discount active recovery systems.”
Key Takeaways
- Wheel Locks are Useless: Pros remove them in seconds. They are a minor annoyance, not a deterrent.
- No Discount: Insurers rarely offer discounts for wheel locks because data shows they don’t prevent theft.
- “Active” vs. “Passive”: Discounts apply to things that scream (Alarm) or track (LoJack). Not lug nuts.
- Tilt Sensors: The only thing that stops wheel theft is a 2-way alarm with a Tilt Sensor that alerts you when the car is jacked up.
The “Why” (The Trap): False Security
You rely on the locks, so you park in a risky spot.
The insurer knows locks fail.
The discount is for “Vehicle Recovery” (GPS), not “Part Retention.”
[IMAGE: Photo of a stripped wheel hub with a defeated wheel lock on the ground]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked about Anti-Theft discounts.
1. Geico
- Discount: Passive Alarm (horn): ~5%. GPS Tracker: ~10%. Wheel Locks: 0%.
2. State Farm
- Discount: Similar structure. They require an “Anti-Theft Certificate” from the installer for alarms.
3. Compustar (Alarm Company)
- Product: Alarm with Tilt Sensor + Drone Mobile (GPS).
- Insurance Value: This system actually prevents the loss. The discount might pay for the subscription over time.
Comparison Table
| Device | Deterrent Level | Insurance Discount | Cost |
| Wheel Locks | Low | None | $50 |
| Factory Alarm | Medium | Included in Base Rate | $0 |
| Tilt Sensor Alarm | High | Potential (5-10%) | $400 |
| GPS Tracker | Recovery Only | Yes (10-15%) | Subscription |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Get a Tilt Sensor: If you have nice wheels, buy an aftermarket alarm with a tilt sensor. It’s the only warning you’ll get.
- Park Against Curbs: Turn your wheels sharply and park close to the curb. It makes it harder to get a jack under.
- Spline Lugs: Use “Spline Drive” lugs instead of standard locks. They are harder to hammer a socket onto (but still defeatable).
- Check Coverage Limits: Forget the locks; focus on your “Custom Parts” limit. Ensure you have $4,000 coverage so when they are stolen, you get paid.
FAQ Section
Do wheel boots help?
Yes, but they are inconvenient. Good for long-term storage.
Does insurance cover the damage to the rockers?
Yes. Thieves often drop the car on the rotors/rockers. This is part of the comprehensive claim.
If I catch them, can I do anything?
Do not engage. Wheels are replaceable. You are not covered for “Injuries sustained while fighting a thief.”