The sinking feeling of realizing you’ve locked your keys in the car can turn a pleasant outing into a major inconvenience. Fortunately, a smart preventative measure is to stash a spare key in a secure location outside your car. This is where lock box for car for cars come into play. These compact, weatherproof containers offer a designated spot to store your spare key, readily accessible in case of a lockout.
The Advantages of Using a Lock Box for Your Car
There are several compelling reasons to consider using a lock box for your car:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a spare key readily available eliminates the stress and hassle associated with a lockout situation.
- Cost-Effective Solution: A lock box is a significantly cheaper alternative to calling a locksmith in the event of a lockout.
- Convenience: Having a spare key easily accessible can save you time and frustration, especially during times when you’re pressed for time.
- Improved Security (with limitations): While not a foolproof security measure, a lock box can deter casual car thieves who might otherwise attempt to break into your car.
Choosing the Right Lock Box for Your Car
Lock boxes for cars come in various shapes, sizes, and mounting options. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider when making your choice:
- Mounting Style: There are three primary mounting options for car lock boxes: magnetic, shackle, and under-bumper mounts.
- Magnetic mounts: These attach directly to any metal surface on your car. While convenient, they might not be suitable for all car models, and their holding strength can vary.
- Shackle mounts: These lock boxes use a shackle to secure them to a sturdy part of your car frame. They offer a more permanent solution but require some installation.
- Under-bumper mounts: These discreet lock boxes are mounted underneath your car bumper, typically out of sight. They provide a concealed storage option but might be more challenging to access when needed.
- Material and Durability: Choose a lock box made from weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or high-impact plastic to ensure it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Locking Mechanism: Combination locks offer a keyless solution but require memorizing the combination. Padlock mounts allow you to use your preferred padlock for added security.
- Size: Ensure the lock box is large enough to comfortably hold your car key fob or spare key.
Top contenders: Popular Lock Boxes for Cars
Here’s a quick glimpse at some of the highly-rated lock boxes for cars available in the market:
- Supasu Magnetic Key Holder: This magnetic lock box boasts a sleek design and a strong magnet for secure mounting. It features a combination lock for keyless access.
- Vaultz Locking Key Case: This shackle-mount lock box offers a durable aluminum construction and a shackle for secure attachment to your car. It utilizes a combination lock for key storage.
- Kovides Under-Bumper Mount Key Holder: This under-bumper mount lock box provides a discreet storage option. It’s made of weatherproof plastic and uses a combination lock mechanism.
Remember, conducting your own research to find the lock box that best suits your car model and needs is essential.
Installation and Use: Securing Your Spare Key
Once you’ve chosen your lock box, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Here’s a general guideline for using a car lock box:
- Place your spare key inside the lock box.
- For combination locks, set a memorable combination that’s easy for you to recall.
- Securely mount the lock box to your car using the chosen method (magnetic, shackle, or under-bumper).
- Double-check that the lock box is firmly attached and the lid closes securely.
Beyond Lock Boxes: Additional Tips for Preventing Lockouts
While a lock box is a valuable tool, here are some additional strategies to prevent lockouts:
- Carry a spare key with you: Consider keeping a spare key on a separate keychain or in your wallet as a backup.
- Program a spare key into your smartphone (if applicable): Certain car models with smartphone connectivity allow you to unlock your car using your phone in case of a lockout.
- Invest in a roadside assistance membership: Many roadside assistance programs offer lockout services as part of their membership package.
Invest in Tranquility: Where to Buy Your Car Lock Box
When it comes to purchasing a car lock box, you have several options:
- Online Retailers: Major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart offer a wide selection of car lock boxes at competitive prices. You can easily compare features, read customer reviews, and benefit from fast and convenient home delivery.
- Auto Parts Stores: Brick-and-mortar auto parts stores like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts typically carry a selection of car lock boxes. This allows you to see the lock boxes in person, assess their size and construction, and potentially get help from a store associate in choosing the right one for your car.
- Home Improvement Stores: Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s might also carry car lock boxes in their automotive sections. The benefit here is the potential to combine purchasing your lock box with other car care essentials or household items.
While Harbor Freight doesn’t explicitly advertise car lock boxes, some of their toolkits, like the ones mentioned earlier, might contain components useful for creating a DIY car lock out kit. However, this isn’t a guaranteed solution, and it might not be as secure or convenient as a dedicated car lock box.
Safeguarding Your Investment: Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve acquired your car lock box, proper installation and basic maintenance are crucial for ensuring its functionality and longevity. Here are some helpful pointers:
- Installation: Meticulously follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting your lock box. This might involve cleaning the mounting surface, aligning the box correctly, and securely fastening it using the designated hardware.
- Weatherproofing: For shackle-mount lock boxes, apply a dab of lubricant to the shackle mechanism to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
- Combination Lock Maintenance: If your lock box uses a combination lock, periodically practice opening it with the chosen combination to keep your memory refreshed. Consider writing down your combination and storing it in a secure location separate from the lock box.
- Cleaning: Periodically wipe down the exterior of your lock box with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the material.
The Future of Car Access: Innovation Beyond the Lock Box
The automotive industry is constantly evolving, and car access solutions are no exception. Here’s a glimpse into potential future advancements:
- Biometric car access: Fingerprint or facial recognition technology could eliminate the need for physical keys altogether, allowing for secure and personalized car entry.
- Smartphone integration: Car doors might unlock and lock seamlessly through smartphone apps, offering ultimate convenience and keyless access.
- Digital key sharing: Imagine being able to share a temporary digital key with a friend or family member to grant them access to your car for a specific timeframe.
Invest in Peace of Mind: Don’t Let Lockouts Disrupt Your Journey
A car lock box is a practical and affordable solution to safeguard your spare key and prevent the inconvenience of lockouts. By understanding the different types of lock boxes available, considering the factors that influence your choice, and following proper installation and maintenance practices, you can equip yourself with a reliable tool for stress-free car access.