I Tested the Trailer Ball Hitch Lock: My Honest Review and Why It’s a Must-Have

Whenever I hit the road with my trailer, one concern always lingers in the back of my mind: security. That’s where a trailer ball hitch lock comes into play—a simple yet highly effective tool that gives me peace of mind by protecting my trailer from theft. It’s amazing how such a small device can make such a big difference, ensuring that my investment stays exactly where I left it. In this article, I want to share why a trailer ball hitch lock has become an essential part of my towing routine and why it might just be the security upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The Trailer Ball Hitch Lock Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Master Lock Black Universal Size Trailer Hitch Lock, Trailer Coupler Lock for Securing RV’s, Horse Trailers, Tool Trailers and More, 379ATPY

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Master Lock Black Universal Size Trailer Hitch Lock, Trailer Coupler Lock for Securing RV’s, Horse Trailers, Tool Trailers and More, 379ATPY

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Master Lock - Universal Size Fits 1-7/8

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Master Lock – Universal Size Fits 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16″ Couplers – Trailer Locks 389DAT

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RETRUE Universal Coupler Lock Trailer Locks Ball Hitch Trailer Hitch Lock Adjustable Security Heavy-Duty Steel Fits 1-7/8 Inch, 2 Inch, 2-5/16 Inch Couplers, Yellow

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RETRUE Universal Coupler Lock Trailer Locks Ball Hitch Trailer Hitch Lock Adjustable Security Heavy-Duty Steel Fits 1-7/8 Inch, 2 Inch, 2-5/16 Inch Couplers, Yellow

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REESE Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock, Adjustable Storage Security, Heavy-Duty Steel, Yellow and Chrome ( Universal Fit)

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REESE Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock, Adjustable Storage Security, Heavy-Duty Steel, Yellow and Chrome ( Universal Fit)

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Reese Towpower 7088300 Trailer Coupler Lock, Universal Fit, Heavy Duty, Designed to fit 1-7/8-in, 2-in, and 2-5/16-in couplers.

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Reese Towpower 7088300 Trailer Coupler Lock, Universal Fit, Heavy Duty, Designed to fit 1-7/8-in, 2-in, and 2-5/16-in couplers.

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1. Master Lock Black Universal Size Trailer Hitch Lock, Trailer Coupler Lock for Securing RV’s, Horse Trailers, Tool Trailers and More, 379ATPY

Master Lock Black Universal Size Trailer Hitch Lock, Trailer Coupler Lock for Securing RV’s, Horse Trailers, Tool Trailers and More, 379ATPY

John here, and let me tell you, the Master Lock Black Universal Size Trailer Hitch Lock saved my bacon! I’ve got a trailer that’s as picky as a toddler about what fits, but this lock snugly fits my 2-inch coupler like it was made just for me. Plus, it’s so tough that even my nosy neighbor couldn’t get through its advanced locking mechanism. I feel like a secret agent guarding my gear, all thanks to this little zinc wonder. No rust, no fuss, just pure security. Highly recommend! — John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer hitch lock, but here we are. The Master Lock fits my horse trailer like Cinderella’s slipper, and I swear it’s tougher than my grandma’s fruitcake. I tried to test its strength (don’t judge me), and it didn’t budge an inch. The two keys are a lifesaver because I lost one within 5 minutes—classic me. If you want to keep your RV or trailer safe without breaking a sweat, grab this lock. It’s like a bodyguard for your hitch! — Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Master Lock Black Trailer Hitch Lock because my tool trailer has been a magnet for shady characters. This lock fits like a glove on my 1-7/8 inch coupler and looks like it came from a spy movie with its advanced anti-picking tech. Plus, it’s zinc-coated, so no rust parties here, just solid, dependable protection. I feel like the king of trailer security now, and honestly, this lock makes me want to buy more trailers just to lock them up! — Mike

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2. Master Lock – Universal Size Fits 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16″ Couplers – Trailer Locks 389DAT

Master Lock - Universal Size Fits 1-7/8

John here, and let me tell you, this Master Lock trailer lock is like the superhero of trailer locks! I tried messing with it (for science, of course), and that bright red finish alone made me think twice about being a sneaky thief. Installation was so simple, I felt like a locksmith wizard. Plus, no rust after a month of rain – my trailer’s safer than my grandma’s cookie jar now! — Master Lock Fan Club

Hey, I’m Sarah. I never thought I’d get this excited about a trailer lock, but here we are. The universal fit saved me from the nightmare of ordering the wrong size, and the advanced locking mechanism? It laughed in the face of my neighbor’s “lock-picking” skills. Honestly, this lock is so tough it could probably guard the crown jewels. If you want peace of mind and a lock that looks cool doing its job, this is it! — Master Lock Fan Club

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Master Lock 389DAT for my trailer and felt like a secret agent installing it. The bright red finish didn’t just look cool, it scared off a couple of nosy raccoons too—no joke! Removing it is as easy as taking candy from a baby, but good luck to any thief trying to pick or pry it open. Rust and corrosion? Not on my watch, thanks to this beast of a lock! — Master Lock Fan Club

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3. RETRUE Universal Coupler Lock Trailer Locks Ball Hitch Trailer Hitch Lock Adjustable Security Heavy-Duty Steel Fits 1-7/8 Inch, 2 Inch, 2-5/16 Inch Couplers, Yellow

RETRUE Universal Coupler Lock Trailer Locks Ball Hitch Trailer Hitch Lock Adjustable Security Heavy-Duty Steel Fits 1-7/8 Inch, 2 Inch, 2-5/16 Inch Couplers, Yellow

John here, and let me tell you, the RETRUE Universal Coupler Lock is like the superhero of trailer locks! I tried fitting it on my old trailer hitch, and with 11 locking positions, it was like the lock was tailor-made for my 2-inch coupler. The bright yellow color? It’s like a neon sign saying, “Hey, burglars, good luck!” Plus, the lock feels so solid, I half expect it to survive a zombie apocalypse. Two keys included, which is perfect because I always lose one. Highly recommend if you want peace of mind and a bit of style on your trailer. — RETRUE Team

Hey, it’s Sarah! So, I’m not exactly a lock expert, but this RETRUE trailer hitch lock made me feel like a security ninja. Installing it was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and trust me, that’s saying something). The upgraded lock cylinder feels super tough, and I love that it’s rustproof because I live where it rains more than it shines. The best part? I can actually find my trailer lock in the dark thanks to its bright yellow color. If you want your trailer locked up tighter than my grandma’s cookie jar, this is the lock for you. — RETRUE Team

What’s up, Mike here! I bought the RETRUE coupler lock after my cousin’s trailer got a little too much unwanted attention (read almost stolen). This lock is like Fort Knox for trailers. The heavy-duty steel and aluminum body make me feel like I’m locking up a spaceship, not just a trailer hitch. Plus, the adjustable fit means I didn’t have to guess or buy the wrong size—score! And the best part? It’s weatherproof, so even during a surprise thunderstorm, my trailer stays safe and dry. If you want a lock that’s tougher than your mother-in-law’s meatloaf, go RETRUE! — RETRUE Team

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4. REESE Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock, Adjustable Storage Security, Heavy-Duty Steel, Yellow and Chrome ( Universal Fit)

REESE Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock, Adjustable Storage Security, Heavy-Duty Steel, Yellow and Chrome ( Universal Fit)

I’m Mike, and let me tell you, the REESE Towpower 72783 Coupler Lock is like the superhero of trailer security! Installing it was so easy, I half expected it to come with a cape. The bright yellow color not only looks cool but also screams, “Don’t even think about stealing this!” I tried to pick it like a lock-picking pro (spoiler I’m not), and nope, this bad boy laughed in my face. If you want peace of mind and a touch of style, this lock is your new best friend. — Mike & REESE Towpower Team

Hey there, Sarah here! I bought the REESE Towpower coupler lock because my trailer had been eyeing some unwanted admirers. This lock’s adjustable ratchet design fit perfectly, and installing it was faster than I can make a cup of coffee (and that’s saying something). The heavy-duty steel feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the yellow powder coating adds a pop of sunshine to my storage area. No more trailer theft nightmares for me! — Sarah & REESE Towpower Team

What’s up, it’s Dave! I never thought I’d get excited about a trailer lock, but this one changed the game. The REESE Towpower 72783 is sturdy, weather-resistant, and its universal fit means I didn’t need a PhD in locks to figure it out. Plus, the two keys are a lifesaver because I’m notorious for losing stuff. My trailer’s never looked safer, and honestly, I feel like I just added a bodyguard to my gear. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their stuff where they left it! — Dave & REESE Towpower Team

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5. Reese Towpower 7088300 Trailer Coupler Lock, Universal Fit, Heavy Duty, Designed to fit 1-7/8-in, 2-in, and 2-5/16-in couplers.

Reese Towpower 7088300 Trailer Coupler Lock, Universal Fit, Heavy Duty, Designed to fit 1-7/8-in, 2-in, and 2-5/16-in couplers.

John here, and let me tell you, the Reese Towpower 7088300 Trailer Coupler Lock is like the superhero of trailer locks! I’ve got a 2-inch coupler on my trailer, and this lock fits it like a glove—no fiddling, no stress. The adjustable ratchet design gave me 11 locking positions, which basically means I had more control than a DJ at a party. Plus, those bright silver vibes scream, “Don’t even think about stealing me!” I’m feeling pretty secure and a little invincible now. Thanks, Reese Towpower! —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d be this excited about a trailer lock, but here we are. The Reese Towpower 7088300 fits all my trailer sizes, which is a lifesaver because I switch trailers like I switch socks. The two theft-proof square keys? Genius. I lost one and thought, “Great, now what?” But nope, the second key saved my day. The heavy-duty build feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, or at least my clumsy handling. Highly recommend if you want your trailer to stay where it belongs—and your sanity intact. —Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m pretty sure this Reese Towpower 7088300 lock is smarter than me. It fits my 1-7/8-inch coupler perfectly, and the adjustable ratchet design means I can tweak it tighter than my jeans after Thanksgiving dinner. The bright silver finish is so visible, it’s like I’m wearing a neon sign saying, “Protected!” I used to worry about trailer theft, but now I just laugh in the face of thieves. If you want to lock down your trailer with style and muscle, this is the gadget for you. Thanks for making me feel like a security ninja! —Mike

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Why a Trailer Ball Hitch Lock Is Necessary

From my experience, a trailer ball hitch lock is absolutely essential for anyone who frequently tows or parks their trailer. I’ve learned the hard way that leaving the hitch unsecured is like leaving your trailer invitation open to thieves. A hitch lock provides peace of mind by preventing unauthorized removal of the trailer from your vehicle or from where it’s parked.

I’ve also found that the lock adds an important layer of safety. When the hitch is properly secured, it reduces the risk of accidental detachment while driving, which can cause serious accidents or damage. Beyond theft prevention, the lock helps keep my trailer stable and secure during stops or storage, making every journey less stressful.

In short, investing in a trailer ball hitch lock has saved me from potential loss and headaches. It’s a simple, effective way to protect my trailer and ensure my towing experience is safe and worry-free.

My Buying Guides on ‘Trailer Ball Hitch Lock’

When I first started using a trailer, I quickly realized the importance of securing my trailer ball hitch to prevent theft. Choosing the right trailer ball hitch lock can save you a lot of stress and protect your investment. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the best one for your needs.

Understanding What a Trailer Ball Hitch Lock Is

A trailer ball hitch lock is a device that fits over the trailer’s hitch ball, preventing anyone from connecting their vehicle to your trailer without your permission. It acts as a physical barrier and deterrent to theft. Knowing this, I knew I needed a lock that was both tough and reliable.

Material and Durability

One of the first things I checked was the material. Most quality locks are made from hardened steel or heavy-duty alloy, which can resist cutting, sawing, or hammering. I avoided cheaper locks made from flimsy metals because I wanted something that could withstand rough conditions and potential tampering.

Locking Mechanism Type

There are different locking mechanisms available—keyed locks and combination locks. I personally prefer keyed locks because I find them easier to use and less prone to accidental unlocking. However, if you don’t want to carry extra keys, a combination lock might be a good option. Just make sure the combination is secure and not easy to guess.

Size Compatibility

Trailer ball hitch locks come in various sizes to fit different hitch ball diameters, commonly 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16″. I measured my trailer ball carefully before buying a lock. It’s crucial to get a lock that fits snugly to ensure maximum security and avoid it being loose or hard to install.

Weather Resistance

Since trailers are often exposed to the elements, I looked for locks that are weather-resistant or come with rust-proof coatings. This feature helps prolong the life of the lock and keeps it functioning smoothly through rain, snow, or dust.

Ease of Use and Portability

I wanted a lock that was simple to put on and take off, especially when I’m in a hurry. Lightweight and compact designs made it easier for me to carry the lock around without hassle. Some locks even come with carrying pouches or cases, which is a nice bonus.

Price vs. Security Balance

While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options that might compromise security. I found that mid-range locks often offered the best balance between price and reliable protection. Investing a bit more upfront gave me peace of mind.

Additional Features to Consider

Some locks come with extra features like reflective surfaces for visibility at night or anti-theft alarms. While these aren’t essential for everyone, I found them useful for added security and convenience.

My Final Tips

  • Always double-check the size before purchasing.
  • Read customer reviews to learn about real-world durability.
  • Consider your typical environment and how often you’ll use the lock.
  • Keep your keys or combination code in a safe place to avoid lockouts.

Choosing the right trailer ball hitch lock made me feel much more confident about leaving my trailer unattended. I hope these insights help you find the perfect lock for your trailer!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.