Are Travel Trailer Door Locks & Keys Universal?
Your trailer keys could be the same as your neighbor’s, putting your RV at the risk of theft. How is that possible? Are travel trailer door locks and keys universal?
The answer might be surprising, but, yes, 90% of the travel trailers have the same locks and keys. A single key can unlock different RVs, even if they don’t belong to the same manufacturing company.
Manufacturers do this on purpose to save dealers from the hassle of carrying dozens of keys. This helps the salesmen unlock several RVs with a single key, so he can give tours to interested customers.
That’s good for them, but what about your safety?
Don’t worry, I have shortlisted some precautionary measures to protect your trailer from getting stolen.
Is Your Travel Trailer Safe?
Since the door locks and keys are the same for almost every RV, your travel trailer is not safe at all. Apart from door locks and keys, the storage compartment keys are also universal, so anyone can do the dirty job if you aren’t around your RV.
People can break into your trailer and steal your gear or precious accommodations inside your storage compartments.
Although this might not be the case for every travel trailer, you should still take precautionary measures to prevent such incidents.
Travel trailer theft is prevalent in the USA, especially if the thief knows you are out of state, making you an easier target.
Most beginners don’t know they are giving an open invitation to unwanted guests by not changing their door locks. Here are some factors that attract camper van thieves:
- Absence of security features
- Leaving your trailer unlocked
- Visible valuables lying around
- Parking in unsafe areas
Anti-Theft Locks for Travel Trailers
Traveling in an RV is a relaxing and soothing activity. However, it also comes with a risk of theft while you are on the road. And this risk doubles if you are camping in unfamiliar areas.
Luckily, there are locks that you can replace to ensure maximum safety. I have discussed some of the best anti-theft locks for travel trailers:Â
1. Leisure RV Parts Entry Door Lock
/>This RV trailer lock from Leisure Locks comes with a built-in deadbolt to provide you with an extra sense of security.
Initially built for travel trailers, this entry door lock also supports towable haulers, cargo haulers, horse trailers, and custom utility trailers.
The package includes two separate keys for both the handle and the deadbolt. You will also get hardware, strike plates, and screws, making it convenient to replace your previous lock in no time.
The Leisure RV Parts lock fits most campervans doors and replaces Trimark, Fastec, Global, or Bargman locks effortlessly.
Available in black and white colors, this one has a starting price of $25.99. The lock comes with inside and outside latches with four double edge keys.
It fits any door that has a thickness between 1.25” to 1.5,” and the hole cut out around 2.5” x 3.5” to 3” x 4”.Â
However, to be on the safe side, I would suggest checking your door’s specifications before purchasing it.
2. RV Designer Ace Compartment L327 Lock
Most robbers use the standard key that fits all travel trailer’s locks. With the Ace Compartment L327 Lock, the robber will walk away from your RV empty-handed because a regular key can not unlock this one.
RV Designer is a famous brand name that sells RV parts and hardware items required to maintain your camper vans.
This Ace Compartment Lock has four locks with two keys, one offset cam, and one straight cam. The 7/8-inch lock comes at an affordable price of $23.59.
Here is one tricky thing: after unlocking, the key stays fixed in its position. In order to remove the key, you need to reposition the locks back into their locked position.
These tubular cam locks are best for your storage compartments as they are not very common. With this package, you can enjoy camping in peace.
3. TriMark 60-1650 Motor Home Entrance Door Hardware
TriMark is another popular industry name famous for its superior quality locks, latches, handles, and electronics.
Designed for RV travel trailers entrance doors, this product comes with a steel plunger for better security and long life.
This lock features easy installation through sandwich mounting, plunger style latches compliant to FMVSS 206, a built-in deadbolt for additional security, and is power lockable.
The TriMark’s entrance door lock can fit all entrance doors with thickness ranging from 1.39” to 1.78”. It fits left or right-hand doors, making its application universal.
For close-fitting of screen doors, the lock allows an inside release of about 23.9mm. It also comes with an interior assist with open bail for convenient closing.
The optional deadbolt locks into the fully extended position for proper deadbolt functioning. It eliminates the need for add-on residential type deadbolts.
The best thing is that you can lock its paddle before shutting the door, providing you with a rigid lock.
You can also add an optional deadbolt cylinder, which is irremovable for additional safety. Coming to its price, you can buy this efficient look at a very affordable rate, starting from $26.7.Â
4. Valterra 4-Way Universal RV Entrance Lock
Valterra manufactures RV specialty products, including high-quality knobs, entrance locks, lever, and other pool items.
The lock comes with a stainless steel finish that matches with almost every travel trailer’s color scheme. The Valterra lock features a solid steel interior and has a panic-proof inside knob.
This Valterra lock works in standard and drive-in configurations. It also has a 5-pin tumbler and a solid brass key cylinder.
With standard or drive-in style latches, this entrance lock starts from $26.7 and has a four-way universal application. It fits doors that are 1-3/8″ to 1-5/8″ thick. Moreover, backsets should be around 2-3/8″ or 2-3/4″.
5. Creative Products Group Ultra M Pro Lock
The last lock in our list is from Creative Products Group, commonly known as CPG. This durable lock comes with the new revolutionary deadbolt system that provides security to you and your family.
Ultra M Pro features a new design with a full-size handle for a tight and convenient grip. It also comes with an interior safety release for an emergency exit.
The best thing about this lock is that you can install it without any hassle by using just a screwdriver.
The Key-Alike Ready lock fits a travel trailer standard cutout of about 3.75 T x 2.75 W.
This lock is trustworthy because of its safety-oriented features, so you do not need to worry at all. If you care about looks, it has a black powder coat finish to complement your RV.
Conclusion
400;”>Travel trailer theft is real, and many RV owners have been victims of it. That’s why, when camping, you should always ensure safety measures. You don’t want to be the next victim, right?
You can also add devices such as deadlocks, window security film, alarm systems, GPS trackers, and steering locks.
I hope the article helps you in making the right choice of security locks for your travel trailers. Safe traveling, fellas!
