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Owning an RV is a significant investment that you’ll want to protect. Adding security to your RV is not that difficult. But with so many choices, it could become frustrating finding the best RV door lock that fits your needs.
But why would you want to replace the original lock?
If you’ve got an RV, chances are it came with a standard lock and key. However, chances are also pretty high that your key will fit right into your camping neighbor’s lock as well. What are we talking about? Well, sit down, you need to hear the scary truth
And it just might make you rethink the security of your RV.
Why You Should Replace Your RV Lock
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Changing the lock on your RV door is one of the first and most important steps you should make.
Unknown to most owners, the majority of standard RV locks and keys are universal. What this means is that most RV locks can be accessed using the same key.
Manufacturers produce the locks in this fashion to make it easier for the RV salespeople to gain access. They can show off the RV rigs without having to carry around multiple different keys. They even named this universal key, the CH751 key.
However, what they fail to tell you is that your standard lock won’t get replaced with a unique one before your purchase. So it wasn’t long before thieves learned of this limited key issue and started taking advantage of it.
The good news is that you can secure your RV by replacing the lock yourself. There are several different best RV door lock options available, from standard to keyless. And while standard might be cheaper, most owners prefer to go keyless.
The benefits of using a keyless lock
One of the main advantages of a keyl RV door lock is the convenience of no longer needing to carry a key. That also means you won’t have to worry about losing one either ess
Another benefit of keyless door locks is its easy access and ability to provide entry to your RV for others at your discretion. Simply tell those trusted people the proper code.
While the best RV door lock discourages most intruders, it’s still possible for someone to guess or hack the code. You can help prevent this by avoiding obvious choices like birth dates or everyday phrases
However, it’s just as easy to forget your code as it is to forget your keys and get locked out. So make sure that you consider this when coding your lock.
Another thing to consider is that, in the case of a power failure, an electrically-powered system might not function properly. Fortunately, the best RV door lock will contain a backup key in case of emergencies.
So while there are some drawbacks to keyless locks, each one can be prevented or quickly resolved.
What It Takes to Be the Best RV Door Lock
No one wants to put their family and property at risk of theft. So, choosing the best RV door lock is a must for ensuring your security.
With so many RV locks on the market, owners sometimes find it challenging to make the right choice. Not to worry. We understand your frustration and have already done all the research for you!
Before you purchase any RV lock, it’s essential to check on its functionality.
It’s also important to ensure that you get the right size to fit your particular rig. Although most locks we’ve reviewed are meant to fit the majority of RVs, it doesn’t hurt to check your dimensions.
It’s also good to look at the material used on the locks.
We’ve only included those made of durable and high-quality components. Not only that, we also looked at what professionals and customers had to say.
And for your convenience, we’ve also taken into consideration some manufacturers who incorporate systems with extra functionalities. So, set your worries aside and find out all you need to know about the best RV door locks below.
Our Top Picks for the Best RV Door Lock
If you’re still unsure of where to start, here are some well-rated entry locks for RVs that you might want to consider. After doing extensive research regarding all the considerations above, we’ve included the highest-rated and longest-lasting locks to help keep your RV more secure.
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RVLock is a name that RV owners have come to rely on, and the V4 Keyless Entry Handle is one of the most popular among most.Similar to other wireless locks, it allows you to easily upgrade your standard RV lock to a keyless entry handle. That gives you easier and faster access to your RV while keeping intruders out.It’s crafted with a heavy-duty steel core and weather-resistant powder coating for reliability and durability.The lock fits most RVs, such as 5th wheel, in addition to bumper pull, campers, and traveler trailers with little to no modifications.
It also includes a keyless handle with an Integrated keypad and wireless remote fob. Like most keyless locks, this one has a backup key which would come in handy in case of an emergency.
The most common issue is that the audio of this particular unit can be quite loud. Some users have been able to get around this by removing the speaker off the backside of the motherboard. Although it can work, we wouldn’t recommend altering the lock unless you know what you’re doing.
Even at such a high cost, the Keyless Entry Handle continues to be the best RV door lock choice among many customers, crowning it 4.4 out of 5.0 stars on Amazon.
PROS
- Easy installation
- Fits most RV campers
- Includes a remote key fob
- Made of top-quality materials
- Comes with a one-year warranty
CONS
- The audio is loud
- Could be more durable
- High price range
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As mentioned earlier, most RV owners prefer going with a keyless system. But if you want to stay more traditional, there are still a few great standard replacement options on the market. The RV Travel Trailer Entry Door Lock from LeisureLocks is one of these options.The quality of the material is sturdy with a heavy-duty deadbolt construction to last you years of use. And a benefit of it not being wireless is that you never have to worry about batteries or power outages.It provides an extra sense of security by replacing the standard locks that come with most RVs. The model is designed for travel trailers but is proven to work with cargo haulers, horse trailers, or custom utility trailers.The only noted complaint about this lock is that it can be difficult to turn. However, this is corrected by applying a little lubricant to make it easier.Customers love the great design and security that this lock provides for their RV, rewarding it a fantastic 4.3 out of 5.0 stars on Amazon
PROS
- Includes built-in deadbolt
- Made of heavy-duty materials
- Affordable
- Doesn’t require batteries
- Fits most RV doors
CONS
- The deadbolt can be hard to turn
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Another standard option for the best RV door lock is this amazingly sturdy lock by Ap Products.We’ve included this lock for a few different reasons. First, the material and quality are hard to beat when it comes to keeping your RV secure.However, the primary goal of this particular lock is that it’s a replacement for the popular, yet discontinued, 060-650. That’s fantastic news for the many RV owners who still use the old hardware.The only thing you need to know is that It has thicker strike bolts than the original. To accommodate this, it includes a new strike plate that’s relatively easy to install with a few modifications. It’s an excellent choice for old and new RV owners, with an affordable price range, making it readily available for everyone.While this lock might need some minor adjustments, many customers find it well worth the effort, earning it a 4.1 out of 5.0 stars on Amazon.
PROS
- Fairly easy installation
- Crafted from high-quality materials
- Reasonable price range
- Replacement for discontinued 060-1650 lock
CONS
- May require minor modifications
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Many users who still prefer standard over keyless refer to this as the best RV door lock in the market today. That’s due to the tough exterior of the lock.
It’s sturdy, easy to install, and manufactured with stainless steel and metal for long-lasting weatherresistance.
Although it fits most RV makes and models, some customers report that it can be a little hard to fit into an existing opening. It’s a suitable replacement, matching most RVs, such as 5th wheel, in addition to bumper pull, campers, horse, and traveler trailers.
Owners feel highly secure with the quality of Travel Trailer Entrance Lock Set, earning it a rating of 4.3 out of 5.0 stars on Amazon.
PROS
- Fits most RV models
- Made of heavy-duty materials
- No batteries required
- Includes full manufacturer warranty
CONS
- Can be challenging to fit into some cutouts
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The Bauer RV Entry Door Lock is a direct replacement for standard RV entry door locks. That’s especially good for those who want to keep the traditional look while still upgrading to a much more secure option. It’s lightweight, affordable, easy to install, and features corrosion-resistant materials for long-lasting protection.
This best RV door lock also takes advantage of Bauer’s SCI technology to prevent tampering with lock cylinders, which is an excellent safety component.
It includes most of the required components you’ll need. However, we must note that it doesn’t include a striker plate, so it’s recommended to use your existing plate instead.
While this lock is a standard replacement, many customers say that it competes with the top expensive keyless options. That earns the Bauer RV Entry Door Lock a 4.4 out of 5.0 stars on Amazon
PROS
- Affordable
- Doesn’t require batteries
- Fits most RV doors
- Corrosion-resistant materials
CONS
- Doesn’t include striker plate
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If you’re a fan of the RVLock V4, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the benefits of the V4 in this smaller, compact size. The Compact Keyless Entry Keypad by RVLock is one of our top choices. With its utterly self-contained style, it operates through the use of touch buttons that illuminate for easy operation in the dark. While drawing less attention with its compact size, this lock replaces the standard lock handles that come with most RVs. It’s designed to fit campers, 5th wheel, bumper-pull style, horse, and cargo, or traveler trailer styled doors.Built of the highest quality materials, the entire system is powered by batteries which you can change out quickly when needed.It also comes with a variety of features, including a keyless handle, integrated keypad, and a remote fob for easy access.The RVLock Compact Keyless Entry Keypad has earned its reputation with the confidence of many RV owners rewarding it a 4.5 out of 5.0 stars on Amazon.
PROS
- Easy to install and program
- Fits most RV trailers
- Includes a remote key fob
- Crafted of high-quality material
- The keypad lights upIncludes wireless remote
CONS
- The keypad could be more durableSlightly expensive
How to Replace Your RV Door Lock
Now that you’ve successfully picked out the perfect lock replacement, it’s time to attach it to your RV. But don’t worry, it’s much easier than you may think!
Each best RV door lock we reviewed above requires very little to no installation knowledge.
Most of the locks come with step-by-step installation and programming instructions for you to follow. They also include all of the hardware replacement parts that you’ll need, which makes the entire process quick and easy.
In fact, the only additional tool you should ever need that’s not included is a Phillip’s screwdriver or a drill. If you decide to use a drill, select the lowest setting to avoid stripping out any of the screws.
Step 1: Removing the old lock
The first thing you’ll want to do is remove the four screws on the interior of the door latch. It should only take you a matter of minutes. After doing this, you can proceed to take off the interior handle.
Next, you’ll need to locate and unscrew the remaining two screws holding the strike plate. With both the interior and exterior parts of the old lock gone, you can prepare to install the new one.
Step 2: Installing the new lock
Now you need to take the exterior portion of the new lock and slide it into the cutout of the door. If you remembered to double-check the dimensions of your RV, all the locks we reviewed should fit without any issue.
Repeat the previous steps taken to remove the old lock but in reverse. You’ll need to screw or drill in the four screws of the interior door latch.
Then do the same for the two screws to secure the new strike plate.
Step 3: Keyless RV lock programming
Additionally, if you’re installing a keyless system, you’ll need to connect the wires before attaching the exterior plate cover.
It’s good to note that all keypads come with a pre-programmed code that you’ll need to change.
Although each lock can differ, the included manual should provide clear instructions on customizing your particular clasp.
It’s as simple as that!
The Best RV Door Lock: Final Thoughts
Were you as surprised and terrified as we were when you learned of the universal key? Hopefully, we’ve offered you a decent insight on the importance of switching out your old locks.
We wish you peace of mind in knowing that your RV is more secure with the best RV door lock!
Have you tried using any of the locks we reviewed? Let us know about your experiences in the comments section below!
Last update on 2024-12-13 at 15:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API