Last updated: April 2026
Key Takeaways
- The best way to store spare car keys is in a secure, hidden, and easily accessible location.
- Key safes, coded lockboxes, and magnetic hide-a-key devices are popular options.
- Never store spare keys in obvious places like under the car or doormat.
- Consider anti-theft measures for smart and transponder keys.
- Always keep track of who knows about your spare key’s location.
Introduction
As Sydney’s leading mobile car key replacement experts, we’re often asked about the best way to store spare car keys. Whether you’ve just had a new key cut, or you’re planning ahead to avoid a lockout emergency, knowing how to keep your spare car keys safe is crucial. In Australia, car theft remains a concern: according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 50,000 vehicles were stolen nationwide in 2024, with a significant portion attributed to stolen or poorly stored keys. Meanwhile, NRMA research found that one in three car thefts in NSW involved keys taken from homesundefinedoften from predictable hiding spots.
We’ve helped thousands of Sydney drivers avoid disaster by providing secure, practical advice on spare key storage. With advances in smart keys, keyless entry, and transponder technology, the risks and solutions have changed. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best way to store spare car keys, compare the most popular methods, and share expert tips to keep your vehicle secure and your mind at ease.
Best Way to Store Spare Car Keys: Options Compared
Choosing the best way to store spare car keys depends on your lifestyle, vehicle type, and security needs. Below is a detailed comparison of the most common spare key storage methods used by Sydney drivers today.
| Storage Method | Security Level | Accessibility | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall-Mounted Key Safe (Coded) | High | Medium | Strong, weatherproof, only accessible with code | Requires installation, visible to burglars if not well hidden |
| Magnetic Lockbox (Vehicle) | Medium | High | Easy to access, portable, affordable | Can be found by thieves, magnets may weaken over time |
| Trusted Friend or Family Member | High | Low | Very secure, offsite, reliable | Not instantly accessible in emergencies |
| Hidden Drawer/Safe at Home | Medium | High | Convenient, blends in with household items | Common target for burglars |
| On-Person (Wallet/Purse) | Medium | High | Always with you, quick access | Risk of losing both keys at once |
| RFID-Blocking Pouch | High (for smart keys) | Medium | Prevents relay attacks, portable | Not suitable for traditional keys |
For more on key technology differences, check out our guide on Chip Key vs Regular Key Difference: What Every Sydney Driver Needs to Know and Smart Key vs Traditional Key Advantages: Which Is Best for Sydney Drivers?.
Step-by-Step: How to Store Spare Car Keys Securely
- Assess Your Needs: Decide if you need instant access (e.g. for emergencies) or maximum security (e.g. for long-term storage).
- Choose a Secure Location: Opt for a high-quality key safe, magnetic lockbox, or trusted offsite person. Avoid obvious places like under mats or in gloveboxes.
- Prepare the Key: For smart keys, use an RFID-blocking pouch or wrap in aluminium foil to prevent signal relay attacks. For traditional keys, ensure they’re clean and labelled.
- Install or Place the Storage Device: Mount the key safe in a discreet, weatherproof spot. Attach magnetic lockboxes to hard-to-reach, non-obvious areas under your car or trailer.
- Limit Knowledge: Only share the location with trusted individuals. Keep a record of who knows where your spare is stored.
- Regularly Check and Maintain: Inspect your storage device for damage, rust, or weak magnets. Update codes or locations if you move or change vehicles.
- Test Accessibility: Practice retrieving the spare key to ensure you can access it quickly in an emergency.
Costs, Security, and Technical Considerations
When considering the best way to store spare car keys, it’s important to balance cost, convenience, and security. Here’s what you need to know:
- Key Safes: Quality wall-mounted safes cost $40undefined$120. Look for ASIAL-certified models with weatherproofing and tamper resistance. Installation may require basic tools or professional help.
- Magnetic Lockboxes: Priced from $15undefined$50, these are easy to use but should be checked regularly for magnet strength and corrosion. Only use in locations not easily visible or accessible to thieves.
- RFID-Blocking Pouches: Essential for smart keys, these cost $10undefined$30. They block keyless entry signals, preventing relay attacks. For more on smart key security, see our Smart Key vs Traditional Key Advantages guide.
- Insurance & Warranty: Some insurers require proof of secure key storage for claims. Learn more in our article on Car Key Replacement Insurance Claim Australia: What You Need to Know. For warranty details, see Car Key Replacement Warranty Australia: What You Need to Know.
- Legal Considerations: Always comply with local laws regarding key duplication and storage. For details, visit Car Key Duplication Laws Australia: What Every Driver Needs to Know.
Technical advances in car key security mean that storing a spare is about more than just hiding a key. For smart keys, always use an RFID-blocking pouch or metal container. For traditional keys, focus on physical concealment and robust lockboxes. Never leave a spare key inside your vehicle, as this remains a leading cause of theft.
Australian Car Key Security Statistics
- ABS (2024): Over 50,000 vehicles stolen across Australia, with many thefts involving stolen keys (source).
- NRMA: 1 in 3 car thefts in NSW occur when thieves access keys left in obvious places at home (source).
- RACQ: Recommends using coded key safes and avoiding hiding keys in vehicles or around the home’s exterior (source).
Customer Testimonial
“After losing my only car key, CarKey Plus not only got me back on the road in under an hour, but also gave me the best advice on how to store my new spare key securely. Their team explained the risks and helped me choose a coded key safe for my home. I feel much more confident now!”
undefined Sarah, Bondi
