Jimny // Adventures

Suzuki Jimny Locker Options – Complete Guide

Back to Resources

Lockers are one of the most effective upgrades you can make to a Suzuki Jimny if you want more traction and control off-road. By forcing both wheels on an axle to spin together, lockers help prevent wheelspin, save your clutch, and give your Jimny the ability to tackle obstacles that would otherwise stop it in its tracks.

This resource page breaks down the main types of lockers available for the Jimny, their pros and cons, and recommendations on which axle to lock first.

Locker Type Comparison Table

Comparison of locker types for the Suzuki Jimny
Locker Type Pros Cons Best Use Case
Air Locker (e.g., ARB, TRE)
  • Instant engagement/disengagement
  • Strong and reliable
  • Spare parts widely available
  • Compressor doubles for tyre inflation
  • Higher upfront cost
  • Requires compressor and air lines
  • More complex install
 Serious off-roaders, overlanders, and those wanting maximum control
E-Locker (Electronic)
  • Simpler install (no air lines)
  • Cheaper than air lockers
  • Switch-operated convenience
  • Wiring can fail
  • Engagement sometimes delayed (may need to roll vehicle)
  • Limited brand support vs ARB
 Budget-conscious builds, lighter off-road use
Auto Locker (Mechanical)
  • Cheapest option
  • Always “ready”
  • No switches, wiring, or compressor
  • Harsh engagement can shock-load diffs
  • Handling quirks on-road (clicking, binding)
  • Can stress weak Jimny diffs with bigger tyres
 Budget trail rigs, light-duty Jimnys, drivers OK with quirks

Which Axle to Lock First?

  • Rear Locker First – Recommended for most builds.
    • More weight over the rear axle = better traction gain.
    • Keeps steering predictable.
  • Front Locker Later – Great for harder trails, but can cause understeer when engaged.

For the ultimate setup, many Jimny owners run rear air locker first, then add a front air locker later.

Brands Available for Jimny Lockers

  • ARB Air Lockers – Premium choice, best parts availability worldwide.
  • TRE Lockers – Budget-friendly air locker alternative, popular in South Africa.
  • Lock-Right / Aussie Locker – Affordable auto lockers, though not ideal for larger tyres or weak diffs.

Conclusion

Lockers aren’t essential for every Jimny owner, but if you’re running bigger tyres or tackling technical terrain, they can transform your 4×4 experience.

  • For maximum control and reliability – go with an ARB Air Locker.
  • For budget builds – consider an E-Locker or an auto locker, understanding the trade-offs.
  • Start with the rear axle, then upgrade the front later if needed.

Lockers are one of those upgrades where the Jimny truly punches above its weight — giving you the confidence to crawl, climb, and conquer trails that would normally be out of reach.