Van Slam Lock Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Lock for Your Vehicle

A van slam lock can make securing your load area easier during a busy working day. Designed to lock automatically when the door closes, it is a popular choice for couriers, delivery drivers, tradespeople and fleet operators who regularly access their vehicles.

But is a slam lock the right choice for your van? The answer depends on which doors you use, how often you stop and whether automatic locking suits your daily routine.

In this guide, we explain what to consider before buying a van slam lock, including vehicle compatibility, door positions and the differences between slam locks and other van security products.

What Is a Van Slam Lock?

A slam lock is an additional van security lock that automatically secures the door when it is closed. The appropriate key is then used to reopen the secured door from the outside.

Many slam locks work alongside the vehicle’s existing door mechanism, although the way they operate varies by manufacturer and vehicle.

Their main benefit is convenience: the driver does not need to manually lock the slamlocked door after every stop. This can be particularly useful when making deliveries or regularly accessing tools and equipment.

For more detail about their operation, read our guide to how van slam locks work.

Is a Slam Lock Right for Your Van?

A slam lock is often a good choice if you:

• Make frequent deliveries or collections.
• Regularly open and close your van’s load area.
• Want the door to lock automatically between stops.
• Carry stock, parcels, tools or equipment.
• Share a vehicle with other drivers and want a consistent locking routine.

For example, a courier making multiple deliveries may benefit from a slam lock on a frequently used side loading door. A tradesperson who mainly accesses tools through the rear may prefer to secure the rear doors.

The most suitable setup depends on the vehicle and the way it is used.

Which Van Doors Can Be Fitted With a Slam Lock?

Slam locks are available for many commercial vehicles, with kits designed for specific door positions.

Side Loading Doors

A side-door slam lock can be useful when the sliding door is your main access point throughout the day. Once the door is closed, the lock automatically engages.

When ordering, check whether the kit is intended for the driver’s-side or passenger’s-side door, where applicable.

Rear Doors

Rear-door slam locks are available for many vans with rear barn doors. They can suit drivers who frequently load and unload through the back of the vehicle.

Check whether the kit is compatible with your particular rear-door configuration. A kit for barn doors should not be assumed to fit a tailgate.

Multiple Doors

Depending on your van and the available products, you may be able to secure both the side loading door and rear doors.

Consider which doors you use most often and which provide access to valuable tools, equipment or stock. A slam lock only secures the door it is fitted to, so other doors may need their own security measures.

How to Choose the Correct Slam Lock

Most van slam locks are designed for a specific vehicle and door position. Before ordering, check the following:

Vehicle Make, Model and Year

Confirm the make, model and year of your van against the product application. Manufacturers may change door designs and mechanisms between vehicle generations, even when the model name stays the same.

Door Position and Configuration

Check whether you need a kit for a side loading door or rear doors. Also check whether your van has one or two sliding doors, barn doors or a tailgate.

Existing Security Products

If your van already has hook locks, deadlocks, shields or other security products, check that the new slam lock is compatible with the existing setup.

Internal Linings and Racking

Ply lining, shelving, insulation or racking may need to be moved to access the inside of the door during fitting. Consider this before ordering and installing your lock.

Key Requirements

Check how many keys are supplied and whether additional keys are available for the lock you choose.

If you are purchasing locks for more than one door, check whether keyed alike options are available for the products you have selected. This means the compatible locks can be operated using the same key.

Slam Lock or Hook Lock: Which Should You Choose?

Slam locks and hook locks both provide additional van security, but they work differently.

Some van owners may choose different products for different doors, depending on vehicle compatibility and how they work.

A deadlock is another manually operated option. Like a hook lock, it must be locked and unlocked using its key, but it uses a different bolt design.

What Are the Advantages of a Van Slam Lock?

The main advantages include:

• Automatic locking: The lock engages when the door closes.
• Convenience: There is no need to manually lock the slamlocked door after every stop.
• Suitable for frequent access: Useful for multi-drop and delivery work.
• Vehicle-specific designs: Kits are available for a range of popular commercial vans.
• Additional security: A slam lock adds protection to the door it is fitted to.

A slam lock can help make security part of your normal working routine. However, it should be considered alongside the security of the rest of the vehicle.

Can You Lock Yourself Out With a Slam Lock?

Yes. Automatic locking is convenient, but it also means you could lock yourself out if you close the door with the slam lock key inside the van.

Always keep your key with you before closing a slamlocked door.

If more than one person drives the vehicle, make sure each driver understands how the lock works. Keep a spare key in a secure and accessible location outside the van.

Are Slam Locks Suitable for Overnight Van Security?

A slam lock can provide additional security when the vehicle is parked, provided the door is closed and the lock is operating correctly.

However, overnight security should be considered as a whole. Depending on your van and the risks you face, you may also want to consider compatible hook locks, deadlocks, anti-peel brackets or latch shields.

Where possible, remove valuable tools and equipment from the van overnight and park in a well-lit, secure location.

Can You Fit a Van Slam Lock Yourself?

Some vehicle owners choose to fit their own slam lock. Installation methods vary, but fitting may involve removing door trim, accessing the door mechanism and drilling the bodywork.

A competent DIY installer with the correct tools may be able to carry out the work. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions supplied with the kit. If you are not confident, use an experienced vehicle security installer.

Garrison Locks supplies van security products but no longer offers an installation service. You can purchase a kit for DIY fitting or use an installer of your choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do van slam locks lock automatically?

Yes. A slam lock is designed to lock the door when it closes. The appropriate key is then needed to reopen the secured door from the outside.

Will my remote central locking still work?

Operation varies depending on the vehicle and slam lock design. The slam lock may work separately from the vehicle’s central locking, and some systems may require the original central locking to be operated as part of opening the door.

Check the product details and instructions for the kit you choose.

Can I have more than one slam lock on the same key?

Keyed-alike options may be available for compatible locks. Check the product listing or contact us before ordering if you would like multiple locks operated by the same key.

Are slam locks suitable for every van?

Slam locks are available for many commercial vehicles, but not every kit fits every van. Always check the make, model, year and door position before ordering.

Should I choose a slam lock or a deadlock?

A slam lock can suit drivers who make frequent stops and want automatic locking. A deadlock may be preferable if you want to choose when to lock and unlock the door manually.

Shop Van Slam Locks at Garrison Locks

At Garrison Locks, we supply a wide range of van slam locks, hook locks, deadlocks and vehicle security products for popular commercial vans.

With more than 35 years of locksmith and van security experience, our team can help you identify a suitable product for your vehicle and the way you use it.

Shop Van Locks & Security Products

For help choosing the right kit, call 01858 435900 or email enquiries@garrisonlocks.co.uk.