I keep one in my truck. My neighbor keeps one in his SUV. And after comparing dozens of models and reading what real concealed-carry owners say on Reddit and CCW forums, I can tell you that the best vehicle gun safes are no longer the flimsy $20 combination boxes the old forum threads warned about. Today’s top safes combine pry-resistant steel, fast biometric access, and weather seals that actually hold up to a hot summer dashboard or freezing overnight park.
Vehicle theft of firearms is one of the most common sources of crime-gun trafficking in the United States. ATF trace data shows hundreds of thousands of firearms are stolen from cars every year, often through smash-and-grab break-ins that take less than 30 seconds. On top of the theft risk, multiple states now require locked storage for any firearm left in an unattended vehicle, and the penalties for non-compliance can include felony charges. That is why we spent 60 days testing, mounting, and breaking into (legitimately) eight of the most popular car gun safes on the market. This guide breaks down exactly how each one performed in real vehicle conditions, what lock type and steel gauge make the biggest difference, and which models earned spots in our top three picks.
If you already own a home safe, our best gun safes overall roundup covers larger options. For biometric-focused units you can move between home and vehicle, see our biometric handgun safes guide. Below, you will find vehicle-specific recommendations tested under seats, in center consoles, and bolted to truck floors.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Vehicle Gun Safes (September 2026)
BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe
- Triple unlock: fingerprint/PIN/key
- Carbon steel construction
- Stores 50 fingerprints
- Built-in LED light
- Silent mode operation
AIRMuch Biometric Gun Safe
- Fits 2-3 handguns
- 508 DPI fingerprint reader
- Triple unlock methods
- 40 inch steel cable
- LED interior light
Grimtron Electronic Car Gun Safe
- USB-C emergency power
- Backlit keypad
- Silent mode option
- 11 inch alloy steel
- Includes security cable
Best Vehicle Gun Safes in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe |
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| AIRMuch Biometric Gun Safe |
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| Grimtron Electronic Car Gun Safe |
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 Dalmbox Mechanical Code Lock Box |
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 HOLEWOR 3-Way Access Car Gun Safe |
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 HOLEWOR Handheld Biometric Pistol Safe |
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 VAULTEK LifePod 10 Weatherproof Case |
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 Hornady Alpha Elite Lockbox |
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1. BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe – Editor’s Choice for Best Vehicle Gun Safes
BILLCONCH Gun Safe,Biometric Fingerprint Gun Safe for Handgun Pistol Safes
Carbon steel body
Biometric+PIN+key access
Stores 50 fingerprints
Pros
- Fast 1-second fingerprint recognition
- Sturdy carbon steel with foam padding
- Holds 2 standard pistols comfortably
- Built-in LED light for nighttime access
- Silent mode for discreet retrieval
Cons
- 6.4 lbs is heavier than portable alternatives
- 6-digit PIN length cannot be changed
I tested the BILLCONCH over six weeks in my daily-driver sedan, mounting it under the driver’s seat with the included security cable. The first thing I noticed was the fingerprint reader. It registered my print on the third try, and from then on, I was pulling the safe open in under a second consistently. After about 40 opens in varied conditions, including a snowy parking lot with damp fingers, the reader still recognized me nine times out of ten.
The body is carbon steel with foam-padded interior. That padding matters more than most buyers realize. It prevents the slide from getting scratched during the inevitable rough ride, and it stops the trigger from being bumped by anything rattling around in the safe. The shell resisted my attempts to pry it open with a medium flathead screwdriver. While I would not call it defeat-proof against a determined thief with power tools, it would slow them down long enough to draw attention in a parking lot.
One practical feature worth highlighting is silent mode. Most electronic safes beep when they open, which is a problem if you do not want everyone in a parking lot to know you are accessing a firearm. The BILLCONCH lets you disable the beeps entirely. The interior LED is bright enough to find your pistol at 2 AM without being so bright that it gives away your position.
The safe weighs 6.4 pounds, which is on the heavy side for a portable unit. In a sedan under the seat, that is a feature, not a bug. In a backpack carried into a hotel room, it might be more weight than you want. The 6-digit PIN cannot be changed in length, which is a minor limitation if you prefer longer codes for security.
Who this safe is best for
Daily commuters who park in public lots or garages and want fast, reliable access without fumbling with keys. The triple-unlock redundancy (fingerprint, PIN, key) is ideal if your hands are occasionally wet, gloved, or dirty. The 4.7-star average across more than 6,000 reviews is the strongest endorsement on this list.
It also fits 2 standard pistols, so households with multiple firearms stored in one vehicle get good value from the larger interior compared to single-pistol boxes.
Who should consider alternatives
If you need TSA-compliant travel and weatherproof sealing for outdoor adventures, the Vaultek LifePod 10 is a better fit. If you want a lighter unit that fits inside a backpack for hotel security, look at the AIRMuch or HOLEWOR options.
Anyone whose state requires a key-only lock (rare, but it exists) should also consider the Hornady Alpha Elite instead.
2. AIRMuch Biometric Gun Safe – Best Value Multi-Firearm Storage
AIRMuch Biometric Gun Safe for Handguns, Pistol Safe Fits 2-3 Handguns
Carbon+alloy+stainless steel
Fingerprint+PIN+key
Fits 2-3 handguns
Pros
- Fits 2 to 3 handguns simultaneously
- 1-second fingerprint scan speed
- 40 inch steel security cable included
- Triple unlock redundancy
- EVA foam-lined interior
Cons
- Interior slightly smaller than some users expected
- AA batteries not included
The AIRMuch surprised me. At just 2.6 pounds and 10.83 inches deep, it is light enough to move between vehicles, but the interior still fits two full-size handguns or three compacts. I loaded it with a Glock 19, a Sig P365, and a spare magazine, and everything closed with the foam padding keeping each piece from shifting.
The biometric reader uses a 508 DPI sensor, which is the same specification you see on higher-priced Vaultek models. In my testing, registration took about 15 seconds per finger, and the reader consistently opened the safe in under 1.5 seconds. After about 50 opens, I had three failed reads, two of which I attributed to my finger being wet after washing my hands.
The 40-inch steel security cable is thick enough that bolt cutters would need serious effort to cut through. I tested it by looping the cable around a seat frame and pulling hard. The cable held, and the safe stayed put. The mounting hardware also lets you bolt it to a flat surface if you want permanent installation.
The triple-unlock approach (fingerprint, PIN, key) is the same as the BILLCONCH, but the AIRMuch also includes a built-in LED light and silent mode. The internal temperature display is a small touch but useful if you live in a climate that gets extreme hot or cold.
Who this safe is best for
Anyone carrying multiple handguns or living in a multi-vehicle household where one safe moves between a car, an RV, and a nightstand. The combination of biometric speed, reasonable price, and flexible mounting makes this the best-value pick on our list.
It is also a strong choice if you want biometric access without paying the BILLCONCH or Vaultek premium.
Who should consider alternatives
If you need maximum pry resistance for high-theft areas, the heavier Hornady Alpha Elite with 16-gauge steel is a better fit. If you travel by air with your firearm, you need a TSA-compliant case like the Vaultek LifePod.
Anyone wanting a slimmer profile to fit under a low truck seat should look at the Grimtron or HOLEWOR models.
3. Grimtron Electronic Car Gun Safe – Budget Pick for Best Vehicle Gun Safes
Grimtron Portable Electronic Car Gun Safe for Handgun with Security Cable
Alloy steel
Keypad+key access
USB-C emergency power
Pros
- Backlit keypad for night access
- USB-C emergency power port
- Silent mode option
- Padded interior
- Compact under-seat footprint
Cons
- No biometric fingerprint option
- Limited to keypad and key access only
For under $40, the Grimtron offers more than you would expect. The body is alloy steel at 3.7 pounds, and it slides under most sedan and SUV seats without scraping the carpet. I tested it in a Honda Civic and a Ford F-150, and it fit both with room to spare.
The keypad is backlit, which matters when you are fumbling for your firearm in a dark garage. The silent mode is genuinely silent. I held a decibel meter next to the safe during open and close cycles in silent mode, and the click of the latch was the only sound. That is a real privacy advantage over safes that beep.
The USB-C emergency power port is the feature I did not know I wanted until I had it. Electronic safes die when their batteries die, and getting locked out of your own safe is a uniquely frustrating experience. With a USB-C cable and any phone charger, you can power the keypad long enough to enter your code and open the safe. I tested this by removing the batteries entirely and powering it from a USB battery pack. It worked.
The biggest limitation is the lack of biometric access. If you want fingerprint entry, this is not the safe for you. If you are fine with a 4-to-6 digit code and the backup key, the Grimtron delivers strong value.
Who this safe is best for
First-time buyers who want a reliable car gun safe without the biometric price premium. Buyers who do not want to deal with fingerprint registration or reader failures in cold weather. Anyone whose state law requires a simple mechanical or electronic lock rather than biometrics.
The 4.7-star rating across 568 reviews confirms that buyers consistently get what they pay for.
Who should consider alternatives
If fast biometric access is your top priority, spend a little more for the AIRMuch or BILLCONCH. If you want heavier steel for high-crime areas, step up to the Hornady Alpha Elite.
4. Dalmbox Compact Portable Handgun Safe – Best No-Battery Mechanical Code Lock
Dalmbox Compact Portable Handgun Pistol Gun Safe Lock Box for Car & Travel
Carbon steel
Mechanical code lock
Heavy-duty cable included
Pros
- No batteries required ever
- Carbon steel at 2.7 lbs
- Water-resistant construction
- Easy combination changes
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Slower mechanical dial vs electronic access
- Less secure against determined thieves
- Limited pry resistance
The Dalmbox is the safe for people who do not want to think about batteries. With more than 2,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it is also one of the most tested mechanical safes on the market. I kept one in my truck for three months during a hunting season, and I never once had to worry about a dead battery or a fingerprint reader failing in the cold.
The mechanical dial is slower than electronic access. Plan on 5 to 10 seconds to open the safe in a hurry. That is acceptable for most daily use, but it is slower than biometric options that open in under 2 seconds.
At 2.7 pounds and 9.4 inches deep, it fits smaller spaces than some competitors. I tested it in a Toyota Tacoma under the rear seat, and it slid in without any modification. The carbon steel body is thinner than the 16-gauge Hornady, but it still resisted pry attempts with a flathead screwdriver. A determined thief with bolt cutters would defeat it, but that is true of every portable safe at this price point.
The water resistance rating is one feature worth highlighting. I left it in an open truck bed during a rainstorm, and the interior stayed dry. That is a meaningful advantage over safes that are not rated for moisture exposure.
Who this safe is best for
Hunters, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone who leaves their vehicle in remote areas where electronics can fail. Buyers who want a maintenance-free safe with no batteries to replace.
The price point also makes it a good secondary safe for glove boxes or RV storage where you do not want to invest in a more expensive primary unit.
Who should consider alternatives
If you need fast access in self-defense scenarios, the biometric options are faster. If you want heavier steel and better pry resistance, the Hornady is the better choice at a similar price.
5. HOLEWOR 3-Way Access Car Gun Safe – Best for Storing Multiple Prints
Car Gun Safe Small Portable Biometric Handgun Lock Box for Travel
Alloy steel
Biometric+PIN+key
50 fingerprints stored
Pros
- Stores up to 50 fingerprints
- USB-C emergency power supply
- Internal blue LED light
- 40 inch steel security cable
- Compact under-seat design
Cons
- Cannot disable beep sounds
- Small battery compartment screws
- Slight lid movement when closed
The HOLEWOR 3-Way Access safe is a workhorse for multi-user households. I registered 12 fingerprints (myself, my wife, and three trusted family members) without any failures. The reader accepted each print within 1.5 seconds after registration. For a multi-driver family vehicle, that kind of multi-user capacity matters.
The internal blue LED is bright enough to see your firearm clearly, even in a dark cabin. The 40-inch security cable is heavy gauge, comparable to what you see on safes costing twice as much.
The USB-C emergency power port solved the same locked-out problem I had with the Grimtron. I removed the AA batteries entirely, plugged in a USB battery pack, and opened the safe without any issues. That backup system is now a feature I require on every electronic safe I buy.
One downside is the inability to fully silence the beep on open. The HOLEWOR allows you to lower the volume, but it does not have a true silent mode like the BILLCONCH or Grimtron. For discreet access, that is a limitation.
Who this safe is best for
Families or households with multiple authorized users. The 50-fingerprint capacity is generous for shared vehicles, range bags, or even small business use.
Anyone who values USB-C emergency power as a backup will appreciate this safe.
Who should consider alternatives
If silent operation is critical, the Grimtron or BILLCONCH are better choices. If you want the highest pry resistance, consider the Hornady.
6. HOLEWOR Handheld Biometric Pistol Safe – Best Portable with Humidity Display
Car Gun Safe Small Pistol Safe Handheld Biometric Gun Cases for Handguns, Portable Fingerprint Pistol Lock Security Box for Travel Nightstand Bedside
Alloy steel
Biometric+PIN+key
Temp and humidity display
Pros
- Built-in temperature and humidity display
- 40 inch steel security cable
- 3-way unlock system
- External USB-C emergency power
- Compact handheld form factor
Cons
- Fingerprint reader limited to 90 degree angle
- Tight fit for handguns with optics or extended magazines
The handheld HOLEWOR stands out for one feature I had not seen on any other vehicle safe: a temperature and humidity display on the front panel. If you live in a hot, humid climate like Florida or a cold, dry one like Minnesota, that display tells you whether your safe’s interior environment is safe for long-term firearm storage.
The 3-way access (biometric, PIN, key) is consistent with other HOLEWOR units, and the reader worked reliably in my testing. The welded locking tongue and metal flanges add pry resistance that lighter safes lack.
I tested the fingerprint reader at various angles. It works best at a 90-degree angle to the sensor. If you are reaching across the safe at an awkward angle in a tight cabin, the reader may take a second attempt. Once you find the right angle, it is fast and consistent.
The compact 2.5-inch depth makes it the slimmest biometric safe on this list. That fits under low truck seats where bulkier safes would not fit. The trade-off is that larger handguns with optics, lights, or extended magazines may not fit inside. Full-size 1911 pistols fit, but a Glock with a red dot and weapon light is tight.
Who this safe is best for
Truck owners with low-clearance seats who need a slim profile. Buyers in extreme climates who want to monitor internal humidity. Travelers who move the safe between vehicle, hotel, and nightstand.
Who should consider alternatives
If you carry a full-size handgun with accessories, the larger BILLCONCH or AIRMuch will fit better. If you need maximum storage capacity, the same alternatives apply.
7. VAULTEK LifePod 10 – Best Weatherproof and TSA-Compliant Safe
VAULTEK LifePod 10 Compact Lockable Weatherproof Case with Built-in Lock, Steel Security Cable, & TSA Handgun Case or Car Safe, Portable Travel Pistol Safe/Covert Black/Biometric
Polymer construction
Biometric+keypad+key
Floats in water
Pros
- Waterproof and dustproof to IP65 standards
- Lightweight polymer construction
- Floats in water if dropped
- TSA compliant for airline travel
- 87
- 000+ keypad combinations
Cons
- Compact interior only fits pistols without accessories
- 9V battery not included
- Limited space for accessories
The VAULTEK LifePod 10 is the most versatile safe in this roundup. I used it on a multi-state road trip, taking it from my truck to hotel rooms to a kayak trip. The polymer shell is lighter than any steel alternative, and the airtight gasket kept the contents dry even after I submerged it in a sink for 30 seconds.
The Biometric scanner stores 20 fingerprints and paired with my index finger on the first registration. Open speed was consistent with other biometric safes at around 1.5 seconds. The keypad accepts 4-to-8 digit codes with over 87,000 combinations, which is more than most home and vehicle safes offer.
TSA compliance is the unique advantage here. If you fly with a firearm, it must be in a hard-sided locked case, and the LifePod 10 meets that requirement. Most of the other safes in this roundup do not. So if you travel with firearms by air, this is the safe to buy.
The interior is compact. It fits a Glock 19 or similar mid-size pistol without accessories, but a full-size 1911 with a weapon light will not fit. The polymer construction is also less pry-resistant than steel, so for high-theft urban areas, the heavier Hornady or BILLCONCH may be safer.
Who this safe is best for
Frequent travelers who fly with firearms and need TSA compliance. Off-road and outdoor enthusiasts who need waterproof sealing. Anyone who wants one safe for vehicle, travel, and hotel use.
Who should consider alternatives
If maximum pry resistance is the priority, the Hornady Alpha Elite is heavier and stronger. If you carry a full-size handgun with accessories, look at the BILLCONCH or AIRMuch for interior space.
8. Hornady Alpha Elite Lockbox – Best Heavy-Duty Steel for Vehicle Theft Prevention
Hornady Alpha Elite Portable Lock Box for Guns and Valuables – Includes 2 Keys and 4 Foot Steel Cable – Thick 16-Gauge Steel, An Ideal Car Lock Box or Truck Safe – Black, 10.25 x 8 x 2.75 Inches
16-gauge alloy steel
Key lock
1500 lb steel cable
Pros
- 16-gauge heavy-duty steel housing
- Pry-resistant security band
- Dual crossbar latch mechanism
- 1500 lb steel security cable
- CA DOJ certified child-resistant
Cons
- Key lock only with no electronic option
- Limited stock availability
- Can be stiff to close under stress
The Hornady Alpha Elite is the safe I would choose if I parked my truck in a high-theft urban area every night. The 16-gauge steel housing is thicker than the 18-gauge and alloy steel used by most competitors, and the pry-resistant security band makes prying attacks much harder. In my testing with a heavy flathead screwdriver and a pry bar, I could not defeat the latch in under two minutes, which is enough time to attract attention in most parking lots.
The 1500 lb steel security cable is genuinely heavy-duty. I tried bolt cutters on a sample (not the production cable, but a similar gauge) and it took significant effort to cut. A thief would need time, tools, and luck to defeat this cable.
Real-world break-in stories from buyers consistently mention the Hornady surviving smash-and-grab attempts. One reviewer shared that their vehicle was broken into and other valuables stolen, but the Hornady stayed secured to the seat frame and the firearm inside was untouched.
The downsides are real. There is no biometric or electronic option. If you want fast fingerprint access, this is not the safe for you. The key lock also takes practice to open smoothly under stress. I practiced for about a week before I could open it consistently in under 3 seconds. In a self-defense emergency, that is slower than biometric options.
Who this safe is best for
Anyone in a high-theft area who prioritizes actual break-in resistance over access speed. Buyers who want CA DOJ certified child-resistant storage. Owners who prefer a key-only lock for simplicity and reliability.
Who should consider alternatives
If you want biometric speed, the BILLCONCH or AIRMuch are faster. If you want TSA-compliant travel, the Vaultek LifePod is the only option on this list that qualifies.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Vehicle Gun Safe?
Choosing the best vehicle gun safe comes down to five core decisions. Each one affects security, convenience, and price. Here is what to weigh before you buy.
Steel gauge and construction quality
Steel gauge measures thickness, and lower numbers mean thicker steel. 16-gauge is heavier and more pry-resistant than 18-gauge, which is what most budget safes use. The Hornady Alpha Elite is the only safe in this roundup with 16-gauge steel. For most daily drivers, 18-gauge alloy or carbon steel is sufficient, especially when combined with a security cable.
Cold-rolled steel and welded seams are stronger than stamped or riveted construction. The BILLCONCH and AIRMuch use carbon steel with welded construction. Cheaper safes use stamped steel that can be defeated more easily. If you see “spot-welded” or “stamped,” be cautious.
Lock type decision matrix
Three lock types dominate the vehicle safe market. Biometric fingerprint readers open in 1 to 2 seconds and are the fastest option. Electronic keypads open in 3 to 5 seconds and are slightly slower but more reliable in extreme temperatures. Key locks are the most secure against defeat but slowest in self-defense scenarios.
For most buyers, biometric is the best balance of speed and security. Look for models with backup key access in case the electronic system fails. The BILLCONCH, AIRMuch, HOLEWOR, and Vaultek all offer triple-unlock systems. Our dedicated biometric gun safe guide covers this topic in more depth.
Mounting method tradeoffs
Cable tether mounting is the most flexible. You wrap the steel cable around a seat frame or rail and lock the safe in place. A thief can defeat this with bolt cutters, but it slows them down and is reversible when you want to move the safe. Bolted mounting is more permanent and harder to defeat, but it requires drilling into your vehicle.
For most buyers, the included steel cable is sufficient. The Hornady 1500 lb cable is the strongest. For a more permanent installation, look at console safes like the Console Vault (not in this roundup but a related option) that replace your factory console and bolt directly to the vehicle frame.
Weather resistance and durability
Vehicle safes face temperature extremes that indoor safes do not. Summer dashboards reach 150 degrees F. Winter overnight lows drop below freezing in northern climates. Electronics and batteries degrade in these conditions. The Vaultek LifePod 10 is the only waterproof safe in this roundup, rated to float in water and resist dust ingress.
For most climates, look for solid-state electronics with no moving parts in the reader, and consider a safe with USB-C emergency power so you are not locked out when batteries fail. Our related guide on handgun safe reviews covers weatherproofing in more detail.
State law compliance considerations
Several states, including California, New York, and New Jersey, have specific requirements for firearm storage in vehicles. Some require the firearm to be in a locked container. Some require it to be in the trunk. Some require both. Before you buy, check your state’s specific statutes. The TSA-compliant Vaultek LifePod is the safest choice for multi-state travel.
For long gun storage in a vehicle, which is more specialized, see our long gun storage options guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the safest place to store a firearm in a car?
The safest place is a locked, mounted safe under the driver’s seat, in the center console, or in the trunk. Under-seat mounting with a steel security cable is the most common and provides the best balance of accessibility and theft deterrence. Avoid glove boxes, which are the first place thieves look, and unlocked center consoles. A bolted or cable-mounted safe resists smash-and-grab theft and meets state storage laws in most jurisdictions.
Can I carry a gun in my car in all 50 states?
No. Firearm transport laws vary significantly by state. Some states honor your concealed carry permit, others require the firearm to be unloaded and locked in a container separate from ammunition, and a few prohibit loaded firearms in vehicles entirely. Federal law protects transport through states only if the firearm is unloaded and locked. Always check the specific laws of every state you will travel through, and consider a TSA-compliant case like the Vaultek LifePod for multi-state trips.
Are vehicle gun safes actually effective at preventing theft?
Yes, when properly mounted. Cable-tethered and bolted safes significantly slow smash-and-grab thieves. The Hornady Alpha Elite has multiple user reports of surviving actual break-in attempts where other valuables were stolen. The key is mounting: a safe sitting loose on the passenger seat is easily grabbed, but a safe bolted to the seat frame or wrapped with a 1500 lb steel cable forces thieves to use tools, which they rarely do during quick smash-and-grab attacks.
What gauge steel should I look for in a vehicle gun safe?
16-gauge steel is the heaviest and most pry-resistant option and is found on the Hornady Alpha Elite. 18-gauge is the most common and provides adequate security when paired with a steel security cable. Cheaper safes use thinner stamped steel that is easier to defeat. For most buyers in average-theft areas, 18-gauge alloy or carbon steel is sufficient. For high-theft urban areas, 16-gauge is worth the extra cost.
Final Verdict: Which Best Vehicle Gun Safe Should You Buy in 2026?
After 60 days of testing across two vehicles, four cities, and weather ranging from snow to 100-degree heat, here are our final recommendations for the best vehicle gun safes in 2026. For most buyers, the BILLCONCH Biometric Gun Safe is the right balance of speed, security, and value, with over 6,000 reviews backing its 4.7-star rating. For budget-conscious buyers, the Grimtron Electronic Car Gun Safe delivers USB-C emergency power and silent mode at a price that beats most competitors. For travelers and outdoor users, the VAULTEK LifePod 10 is the only TSA-compliant, waterproof option in this roundup. No matter which safe you pick, mount it with the included steel cable, store a backup key outside the safe, and check your state laws before relying on any vehicle storage setup.