15 Places To Hide A Spare Car Key

To hide a spare key in case of future loss or lockout is a wise idea, but it has one big flaw. Someone can find your key and get access to your car. So, it’s always up to you whether you’re ready for the risk or not.

Sure Lock & Key prepared for you a list of the newest and safest places to hide a car key and some beneficial advice on how to avoid the risk of theft. Just keep reading!

Before we start, we want to remember you that no matter what has happened to your original car key, you can always call for emergency locksmith services.

Best Places To Hide A Spare Car Key In The Car

First of all, to be able to hide a spare key somewhere, you need to have one. Here you can get a spare key. If you already have one, you probably have been wondering where to hide a spare key on the car. Here’s a list of the most suitable places for hiding.

Hitch receiver box
Tire well
Inside the gas tank flap
Behind the front license plate
Behind the bumper

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Tire Well

First of all, we want to mention one old but gold place where you can hide your key. The tire well is probably the place where your parents or even grandparents hide their keys. However, time passed and cars changed a lot and today it may be hard to find a place in the wheel to stash a key. In that case, using a little bit of imagination, you can create a place, some frame, or a small ledge where you can hide your spare key.

Behind The Front License Plate

Usually, the most obvious hiding place is the less predictable one. That’s why stashing your spare key behind your license plate is a pretty good idea. You even can purchase a special license plate hiding container (it also may be called a spare key hider) to make it neat. Choosing this method, you should take into consideration your front bumper and license plate holder shapes. As a rule, their depth is enough to put a key, but there may be exceptions. So, check and double-check if the key is truly safe behind your license plate.

Behind The Bumper

It is a common and widely known hiding place. So, you have to be really careful and inventive if you’ve decided that this is an appropriate key hiding spot. Usually, car owners use containers with magnets to hide the keys. But this hiding device will be pointless if your bumper is made of plastic or fiberglass. Also, before hiding your car key here, notice that bumpers are exposed to damage and often are covered in mud and dust.

Inside The Gas Tank Flap

If all the above mentioned places to hide a key outside your car aren’t suitable for you, you can try this one. This method is pretty similar to the previous one. Use duct tape to fasten the key safely and make sure that the flap is closing properly and the key is unnoticed.

Under The Deck

This method gives you a wide range of opportunities to hide your spare key anywhere beneath your house. But we recommend marking the exact place in the way only you know, so it would be easier to find it. You can hide it inside a box to protect it from rusting.

Inside a Wheel Well: A Hidden Nook

First of all, we want to mention one old but great place where you can hide your key. The wheel well provides a discreet hiding spot, deterring potential thieves who are less likely to inspect this area thoroughly.

Consider placing the spare key in a concealed crevice within the wheel well, away from the direct line of sight and hard to access without prior knowledge. Avoid putting it too close to the tire or moving parts to prevent accidental damage. Ensure the key is securely hidden and won't fall out during vehicle movement. This approach will shield your key from rain, snow, and other weather conditions, ensuring its functionality in emergencies.

Combination with Hitch Covers: Practical and Concealed

Imagine having a spare car key hidden right under your nose, yet virtually invisible to prying eyes. Hitch covers are a wise and discreet solution to keep your keys secure while maintaining easy access.

Start by selecting a durable, weather-resistant hitch cover that matches your vehicle's style. Whether you opt for a sleek design or something more personalized, ensure it's made of robust materials to withstand the elements.

One of the major advantages of this method is its inconspicuous nature. A well-chosen hitch cover seamlessly blends with the overall look of your vehicle, making it difficult for anyone to discern its dual purpose. However, unlike some other ready-made hiding spots, the hitch safe requires installation. While this is a one-time task, it may be a consideration for those looking for quick and easy solutions.

Inside a Magnetic Box: A Secure Compartment

Hiding a spare car key behind the bumper is a common and widely known solution, but it requires a comprehensive approach. Generally, car owners use containers with magnets to hide the keys. However, this hiding device will be pointless if your bumper is made of plastic or fiberglass.

Consider choosing a magnetic container specifically designed for car keys, ensuring it securely adheres even to non-metallic bumpers. Additionally, be mindful of external conditions affecting this hiding spot, including exposure to dirt and potential damage.

Under the Car: Pros and Cons of this Classic Spot

While it may seem like a straightforward solution, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider before stashing your spare key under your vehicle.

First, locate a secure spot near the front or rear bumper, away from obvious areas. Choose a location where the key won't easily fall off yet remains easily accessible to you. Once you've selected the perfect spot, use a strong magnetic box or a specialized key holder designed for outdoor use.

One of the primary advantages of keeping a spare key under your car is its convenience in emergencies. If you accidentally lock yourself out of your vehicle, having a spare key within easy reach can save you time and frustration.

The primary downside of this classic approach is exposure to the elements. Extreme temperatures can affect the longevity and functionality of the spare key. Regularly check and replace the key to ensure it remains in good condition.

Additionally, not all vehicles suit this method, especially those with low clearances. Before adopting this classic solution, ensure your car allows enough space for secure and hidden placement.

Inside the Fuel Door

Hiding a spare key inside the fuel door can be a discreet and accessible option, but it's crucial to ensure it doesn't interfere with the fueling process. Choose a spare key that is small, flat, and lightweight. Avoid bulky keys or keychains that may cause interference.

Use strong adhesive or Velcro to securely attach the spare key to the inside surface of the fuel door. Ensure the attachment is firm and won't come loose over time.

Before finalizing the placement, conduct a test fueling process to ensure that the spare key doesn't interfere with inserting the fuel nozzle, fueling, or closing the fuel door.

How To Decrease The Risk Of Theft By Hiding Your Car Key Outside The Car

There’s always a risk your car can be stolen. Hiding car keys indeed can increase the chances that someone might steal your car. But if after all you’ve decided to hide a key, there’s a sure way to make the theft more difficult and minimize the consequences. It would be best to hide a key that can only unlock or lock the car but can’t start it. Yes, if you left something precious inside the car, the thief probably would take it. But there’s another rule of safety you should always stick to - leaving your car, don’t forget to take all the precious assets with you.

Best Places To Hide A Spare Car Key In The House

You can hide a spare key outside a car, but you also can hide a key far beyond the car. Here you have a list of places in your house

Under the dog house
Under the deck
With a neighbor you trust
In the power meter box
In a dryer vent

In A Dryer Vent

Being hardly noticeable on the house exterior, a dryer vent is a great place to hide a key. You even can make a fake dryer vent and hide it behind a trash can or some yard furniture.

Under The Dog House

Yes, this is a hiding place only for dog owners. But if you’re able to hide a key there, you’re a lucky person. The dog won’t let someone else get it. Obviously, no one wants to try to get the car key under the dog house. Hiding it here, make sure that the dog can’t reach it as well.

With A Neighbor You Trust

To give your car key to a person, you can rely on is a widely known practice. But this method has some flows too. If the situation when you need your spare key happens while you’re at home, you don’t need your neighbor. But if it happened somewhere far from home, he might not be able to come and help. So, giving your spare key to someone, better choose the person who can help regardless of time and place.

Also, you can hide it in your neighbor’s yard in case the neighbor isn’t home when you need help. Even if someone finds it, nine out of ten times, this person will try to unlock your neighbor’s car, which is impossible. So, this approach is safe and harmless for both of you.

Inside The Power Meter Box

Usually, a power meter box is installed on the outside of the house. And it has a reputation of an object you don’t mess with. So, it is a really safe place for your spare key. Probably you would need to tape your key inside the box, so you need to be very careful not to damage electrical wireless.

Finding Your Ideal Hiding Spot

When it comes to safeguarding your spare car key, it's crucial to find a perfect balance between accessibility and concealment. Finding your ideal hiding spot is about personalizing your security strategy. Consider your surroundings, daily routine, and the unique quirks of your property. Embrace a dash of ingenuity and adaptability to ensure your spare car key remains your secret weapon, ready to rescue you from any lockout scenario.

As you embark on this journey to secure your keys, remember that the best hiding spot is the one that brings you peace of mind. So, experiment to find the optimal balance of discretion and accessibility for your spare key – the key to a hassle-free driving experience.

Safe travels!