Tailgate Locking — Best Theft Deterrence?

I just ordered a SaBellCo tailgate lock, even though I have the manual OEM key lock on my 21 TRD OR.

Now I see there’s a power lock that runs through the FOB...what is the best way to go here? My goal is only to achieve reasonable tailgate theft deterrence...is that best achieved with the SaBellCo? Did I waste money even getting the SaBellCo given the OEM key lock?

 

I use the OEM power lock

 

Either manual or electric locks help. Various devices to physically prevent removal help. Bed covers help

Which type of lock better is strictly a matter personal choice. But don’t work if you forget to use it. Same goes for the cover if you don’t lock it.

The anti theft devices are fire and forget. They don’t need activation.

Personally, I’ve locked tailgates on work trucks for years so I lock it. I have a bed cover that locks so I use that. But I also am old and have CRS so I put a SaBellCo unit on.

People can still steal the tailgate. But, it’s going to take longer. Time is on thing thieves don’t want to expend. It increases the chances of getting caught

 

I put a hose clamp on the hinge. Just to prevent the rando's from jacking it quickly.

Also added a pop n lock so it's locked whenever the doors are.

I don't live in a high crime area so that's enough for me.

 

I use this, much thicker than a hose clamp

 

I went for both. The OEM power lock that locks with the doors and the SaBellCo tailgate lock. Gonna make them work for it.

 

Just keep it locked?

 

I've done the cable washer mod, the electronic lock, and the hose clamp mod with a 5 sided screw head (that requires a special tool to loosen and tighten) from Walmart. Anything I can do to make it harder for the dirtbags and methheads....

 

I lock it and I have good insurance.

 

I use the oem tailgate lock. When the truck is locked the tailgate is locked, vice versa. Like the ability to use the remote as well.

 

I have a SaBellCo lock AND Pop-N-Lock power tailgate lock on the tailgate. Tailgate is NOT going anywhere.

Even my old Frontier, i had power both types of locks. Granted, i made my own power lock with a cheap actuator and Nissan actually had a lock hoop that looped over the hinge with a security keyed bolt, similar to a wheel lock type key.

 

The only thing I don’t like about the electric is that it does open every time you unlock the doors. That’s a lot o needless wear.

 

That's why I have my driver's door set to be the only one to unlock initially. I can hit the key fob button again, or unlock button on the door if I need in one of the other ones.

 

no different then any other vehicle out there - wait all other vehicles out there with a trunk.

 

+1 sabellco

 

Thanks. I appreciate all the feedback.

 

I'd go with pop a lock (Edit: or OEM) as others have mentioned, and ensure you have the setting that only opens the driver's door with one button click. Less wear and tear on the actuator.

I pieced together the same kind of locking system but I do think for most people plug and play is worth the money and convenience.

 

OEM kit seems to be recommended over Pop and Lock. Just installed OEM on my 2020 and was a smooth experience. Can’t vouch for Pop and Lock but why not stick to OEM when given the option?

 

You're right, I just remember when I was looking I couldn't find an OEM option available when I needed it, so my options were pop and lock and custom made, I went the custom route to save money.

 

I installed the OEM power lock kit for piece of mind. In conjunction with a tonneau cover it now serves two purposes.