15 Places To Hide A Spare Car Key


Published: Aug 18, 2022 | Updated: Mar 24, 2026

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

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


Bumper of a red car

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.

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