I’m trying to look at all aspects of this. Cost is not that much ($45-55). I’m trying to make the scumbag thieves decide to move on to the next truck by making it appear a little more difficult to remove my tires.
Is there a downside or an unintended consequence to installing this to one’s truck?

 

It's a total waste of money and time. Anyone who knows how to use Google can find out how to defeat them quite easily. All the "scumbag thieves" know how to do it. If you live in an area where normal F-150 wheels and tires are stolen, that's a shame.

 

the only downside is if you lose the key and don't have the ID card, when i get my first oil change i am getting a set put on just for my own piece of mind. I had a set on my 2014 and my 2018

 

years ago, I actually broke the key somehow on my Tundra. Now that was a problem. Out of town— had to be towed about 80 miles. Anyone know is it possible to get a backup key? Btw as was previously mentioned, is there a chance these keys are easily obtainable? Like how many are made- hundreds? Or just a few where the thieves could literally buy all locking sets?

 

it is possible, you get the wheel locks it will come with a little ID card(every wheel lock has a different 'pattern), call up McGuard(they are who make the set for ford) with that number and they can send you another one. I think they are 10 or 20 bucks. And you can get a 'master key set' but you have to be a dealer and they are stupid expensive

 

I have used McGard wheels locks on every vehicle I have ever owned. I always buy an extra key, just in case. It's easy now, you can go online and use the ID card and order, I want to say they are about $15. Plus you can create an online account so they have the code on file in case you happen to need another.

Yeah, wheel locks aren't going to stop someone who really wants your wheels and tires, but they may convince someone to move onto something easier.

Doug

 

Locks did not slow down the thieves who took my neighbors wheels off of his GMC. After having an issue with one several years ago, I removed them all. I can though, understand the lure especially if its more than factory tires and wheels you are trying to protect.

 

my thinking exactly

 

The first thing I purchased after getting the truck. We have used on our vehicles for years. For the money it will deter 90% of the would be thieves. I'm good with those odds. Even factory wheels cost a ton to replace.

 

Disagree. Yes, a professional thief who really wants your particular wheels and tires, will find a work around. But most thieves are not professionals rather opportunists and will move onto the vehicle without any wheel locks, so they do work as a deterrent.